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Dozer Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals * Ability to operate equipment by ...

Operator Forklift

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Job Title Operator Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator that will be responsible for ... Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ...

Equipment Operator

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Description ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB • Operating a dozer, excavator, front end loader and forklift • Ensuring all equipment is maintained and used in accordance with company health and ...

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Oil and Gas pipeline experience * 5+ years' experience in operating excavator, dozer, and articulated dump truck If you are qualified, want a new opportunity and are looking for a solid future, send ...

Oil and Gas pipeline experience * 5+ years' experience in operating excavator, dozer, and articulated dump truck If you are qualified, want a new opportunity and are looking for a solid future, send ...

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Oil and Gas pipeline experience * 5+ years' experience in operating excavator, dozer, and articulated dump truck If you are qualified, want a new opportunity and are looking for a solid future, send ...

Yard Attendant

De Soto, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Basic assembly of equipment i.e. dozer blades, etc. * Checks fluid and fuel levels on equipment ... Places operators in rolling stock. * Parks sold equipment on the ramp. * Perform other duties as ...

Yard Attendant

De Soto, IA · On-site

$18/hr

Basic assembly of equipment i.e. dozer blades, etc. * Checks fluid and fuel levels on equipment ... Places operators in rolling stock. * Parks sold equipment on the ramp. * Perform other duties as ...

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Dozer Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$23

$42

How much do dozer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for dozer operator in Iowa is $23.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $25.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Dozer Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of heavy equipment operation, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers requiring a valid equipment operator certification. Experience with GPS machine control systems, safety protocols, and routine equipment maintenance tools is highly valued. Attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for safe and efficient operation on busy worksites. These skills ensure precision, safety, and productivity, which are vital for meeting project deadlines and maintaining workplace safety standards.

How much does a dozer operator get paid?

The average salary for a dozer operator ranges from $20 to $30 per hour, with annual earnings typically between $40,000 and $60,000. Pay can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated, and often includes benefits such as health insurance and overtime opportunities.

How long does it take to become a dozer operator?

Becoming a dozer operator typically requires completing a training program or apprenticeship that can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of equipment and the training provider. Gaining experience and obtaining certification, such as a commercial driver's license or specific equipment operation licenses, can further enhance job readiness and may take additional time. On-the-job training is common for new operators to develop skills in a real work environment.

Is there demand for dozer operators?

Yes, there is consistent demand for dozer operators in construction, mining, and land development projects. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after, especially in regions with ongoing infrastructure or resource extraction activities.

What are Dozer Operators?

Dozer Operators are skilled professionals who operate bulldozers and other heavy equipment to move earth, rocks, debris, and other materials on construction sites, mines, quarries, and other work environments. Their main responsibility involves grading land, clearing obstacles, and preparing sites for building or infrastructure projects. They must understand how to safely maneuver large machinery, read site plans, and perform routine maintenance on their equipment. Safety, precision, and attention to detail are critical aspects of this role.

What is the difference between Dozer Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDozer OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) or certification in heavy equipment operationSimilar certifications, often including OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentOperate bulldozers mainly on construction sites, land clearing, and gradingOperate excavators for digging, trenching, and material handling
Industry UsageCommon in construction, mining, and land developmentUsed in construction, demolition, and excavation projects

Both Dozer Operators and Excavator Operators require heavy equipment certifications and work in construction-related environments. While Dozer Operators focus on land grading and moving large amounts of earth with bulldozers, Excavator Operators specialize in digging and material handling with excavators. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and project needs.

What are some common challenges Dozer Operators face on construction sites, and how can they be effectively managed?

Dozer Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating uneven or limited spaces, and ensuring safety while operating heavy machinery near other workers and equipment. Effective communication with site supervisors and other operators is essential to coordinate tasks and avoid hazards. Regular equipment checks and adherence to safety protocols help maintain smooth operations and minimize downtime due to mechanical issues or accidents.

Is operating a bulldozer hard?

Operating a dozer requires training and experience to handle heavy equipment safely and efficiently. It involves understanding controls, terrain, and safety protocols, but with proper instruction, many operators become proficient over time.

What Does a Dozer Operator Do?

A dozer operator drives a bulldozer at construction sites or during other types of industrial operations. In this job, your duties include moving soil, rocks, and debris and leveling the ground. You control the tractor and also operate the shovel or blade on the front of the vehicle. A dozer operator’s responsibilities can vary, but you usually receive instructions or guidance from a foreman or site supervisor. A dozer driver is a heavy equipment operator. In some jobs, you operate other types of heavy equipment in addition to the bulldozer. Heavy equipment can include a backhoe, dump truck, or excavator.

What are popular job titles related to Dozer Operator jobs in Iowa? For Dozer Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Dozer Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Dozer Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Dozer Operator jobs in IA? For Dozer Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Heavy Equipment Operator (Dozer)

Absolute Group

Granger, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

We are looking for an experienced Dozer Operator. Operators are responsible for safely operating equipment on seasonal commercial and municipal construction projects. Qualified candidates must be able to think critically and use good judgement to detect, minimize, and eliminate hazards on construction projects. This position requires compliance with company safety and OSHA regulations and includes continuous training.
Job Requirements: The ideal candidate will have minimum 3 years' experience operating GPS-enabled dozer and other heavy earthmoving equipment. Ability to grade jobsite to shed water and maintain proposed elevations. Operators must possess excellent communication and organizational skills, and a solid understanding of earthwork methods. All candidates must have the ability to show up to work on time, possess a strong work ethic, show a willingness to learn, have a positive attitude and exhibit a thorough understanding of construction site safety.
About the Utility Division
Utility is a Division of Absolute Group that specializes in residential, commercial, and municipal infrastructure construction. The Utility Division provides full site development, including sanitary sewer, water main, storm sewer and grading and earthwork. The Utility Division also offers a variety of groundwork services like trucking, commercial footing excavation and backfill, and finish grading.
The Absolute Group Difference
The Absolute Group prides itself in its company core values, and we like to think it's one of the many things that sets us apart from the rest of the field. Our team is Driven, taking on each task with a "can-do" attitude and always putting our People First, whether that's who we're working with day-to-day or the employees that keep our company up and running. We're nothing without our customers, our team, our families, even our competitors, and remembering this is key to keeping us Respectful and Humble in all that we do. We're Determined to be Dependable, to be relied on, and we don't stop until the job is done. And, of course, we're thinkers. It's our Fearless Forward-Thinking that saves us time and money and keeps us up with the times.
Hard Work Pays Off
When you work hard for us, we work hard for you. And that's exactly why we offer our crews the most competitive benefits package the construction industry has to offer. As an Absolute Group employee, you will receive:
  • Competitive pay
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid time off
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Life insurance coverage
  • Voluntary Accident, Critical Illness, Short-term and Long-term insurance coverages
  • Family-focused environment
  • Company-sponsored outings and events

Absolute Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.