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Dirt Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Your Job The jobsite located in Baytown, T X , has an opening for a Dirt Operator II. Our Team Optimized Process Designs, LLC (OPD) is an engineering/construction company headquartered in Katy, TX ...

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Dirt Operator information

See Texas salary details

$30.7K

$53.1K

$82K

How much do dirt operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for dirt operator in Texas is $53,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $57,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Dirt Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDirt OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, earthmoving projectsConstruction sites, earthmoving, demolition
Industry UsageCommon in construction, landscaping, miningCommon in construction, demolition, mining

The Dirt Operator and Excavator Operator roles share similar credentials and work environments, often overlapping in construction and earthmoving projects. The main difference lies in the equipment operated: Dirt Operators typically handle various earthmoving machinery, while Excavator Operators specifically operate excavators. Both roles are essential in construction and mining industries, with similar safety training and certifications required.

What are some typical challenges dirt operators face when working on large construction sites?

Dirt Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating uneven terrain, working in varying weather conditions, and coordinating with other heavy equipment operators to maintain site efficiency and safety. Managing tight project deadlines and adapting to unexpected site conditions, like soil instability or underground obstacles, are also common. Effective communication with supervisors, surveyors, and other team members is essential to ensure tasks are completed accurately and safely.

What is a dirt operator?

Dirt Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, to move, grade, and level earth on construction sites. Their primary responsibilities include preparing land for building foundations, roads, and other infrastructure projects. Dirt Operators must understand site plans, follow safety protocols, and maintain their equipment. This role is critical in the construction industry, ensuring that projects begin with a properly prepared site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dirt operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dirt Operator, you typically need experience in heavy equipment operation, knowledge of site grading, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, GPS grading systems, and relevant safety certifications like OSHA are often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations on construction sites. These competencies are crucial for maintaining project timelines, ensuring safety, and delivering high-quality earthmoving results.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Dirt Operator jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Dirt Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Dirt Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,060 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Dirt Operator Journey (Dozer)

Bechtel Corporation

Pecos, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Bechtel rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

281st of 449 rated engineering


Job description

27937BR

Job Title:

Dirt Operator Journey (Dozer)

Job Description:

Operates dirt moving equipment including but limited to dozers, track hoes, backhoes, and front-end loaders. Typically requires a minimum of 48 months of industrial construction experience.

Must have experience of operating DOZER CRAWLER 350-400 NHP D W/RIPPER.

Auto req ID:

27937BR

Project Name:

Kilby

Location:

Pecos, Texas

Shift:

Day Shift

Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com or call +1-800-749-2372 for assistance. Determinations on request for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.


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