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Earth Moving Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Estimator

Woodburn, OR ยท On-site

Kerr Contractors is recognized as one of the most technically advanced earth-moving, road building and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting relationships ...

Estimator

Woodburn, OR ยท On-site

Kerr Contractors is recognized as one of the most technically advanced earth-moving, road building and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting relationships ...

Estimator

Woodburn, OR ยท On-site

Kerr Contractors is recognized as one of the most technically advanced earth-moving, road building and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting relationships ...

Fabricators/Welders

Woodburn, OR ยท On-site

$20.75 - $26.50/hr

Kerr Contractors is recognized as one of the most technically advanced earth-moving, road-building, and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting ...

Kerr Contractors is recognized as one of the most technically advanced earth-moving, road building, and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting ...

Pipe Layers - Pipe Crew

Woodburn, OR ยท On-site

$29 - $36/hr

We've earned our reputation as one of the region's most technically advanced earth-moving, road-building, and underground utilities contractors. At Kerr, we don't just move dirt and build roads - we ...

Fabricators/Welders

Woodburn, OR ยท On-site

$20.75 - $26.50/hr

Kerr Contractors is recognized as one of the most technically advanced earth-moving, road-building, and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting ...

Showing results 21-40

Earth Moving information

See Oregon salary details

$11

$19

$26

How much do earth moving jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for earth moving in Oregon is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an earth moving job?

Earth moving jobs involve the operation of heavy machinery to move, remove, or shape large amounts of earth or soil, typically for construction or mining projects. Workers in this field may operate equipment like bulldozers, excavators, backhoes, and loaders to prepare sites for building, roadwork, or landscaping. These jobs require good physical fitness, attention to safety protocols, and often, specialized training or certification for operating machinery. Earth moving is a crucial part of the construction and mining industries, ensuring that sites are properly prepared for further work.

What are some common challenges faced when operating earth moving equipment, and how can they be managed?

Operators of earth moving equipment often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating uneven or unstable terrain, and managing equipment maintenance. To overcome these, safety protocols must be strictly followed, regular equipment inspections are essential, and clear communication with site supervisors and other team members helps ensure efficient workflow. Continuous training on new technologies and safety practices can also help operators adapt and reduce risks on the job.

What is the difference between Earth Moving vs Excavator Operator?

AspectEarth MovingExcavator Operator
CredentialsHeavy equipment operator license, certifications in earth movingOperator license, specific excavator certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, landscapingConstruction sites, demolition, excavation projects
Job RoleGeneral operation of various heavy machinery for earth movementOperate excavators for digging, trenching, lifting

Earth Moving is a broad term covering various heavy machinery operations for relocating soil and materials, while Excavator Operator specializes in operating excavators specifically. Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction or mining environments, but Earth Moving encompasses a wider range of equipment and tasks.

How do you become an earth mover?

To become an earth mover, you typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, obtain on-the-job training or an apprenticeship, and acquire a commercial driver's license (CDL) if operating large equipment. Many employers also require certification in heavy equipment operation from organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) or similar bodies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in earth moving, and why are they important?

To thrive in Earth Moving, you need practical experience with heavy machinery, a solid understanding of construction site safety, and often a high school diploma or relevant certifications. Familiarity with operating equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, as well as knowledge of GPS or grade control systems, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure safe, efficient operations and help maintain project timelines and site safety standards.
Infographic showing various Earth Moving job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,994 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Field Safety Technician

KERR CONTRACTORS OREGON LLC

Woodburn, OR โ€ข On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Kerr Contractors:Established in 1988, Kerr Contractors is a leading heavy civil general contractor and construction management firm headquartered in Woodburn, Oregon. Kerr Contractors is recognized as one of the most technically advanced earth-moving, road building, and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting relationships, excellent service, workmanship that has enduring character, and meeting or exceeding customer expectations every time. We have staked our reputation on our ability to deliver each of these.


What You'll Do:

  • Conduct safety jobsite inspections to monitor compliance.
  • Conduct follow-up inspection to ensure corrective action has taken place
  • Conduct Construction project audits
  • Promote and cultivate Kerr s Safety culture
  • Conduct incident investigations and complete associated reports
  • Conduct safety meetings and Job Hazard Analyses
  • Identify potential hazards and offer abatement assistance
  • Conduct basic Safety training
  • Track training and compliance records
  • Representing the company in a professional manner
  • Schedule trainings and equipment maintenance
  • Data analysis

What You'll Need:

  • 1-2 years experience in construction/excavation
  • Highly organized and self-motivated
  • Understanding of OSHA and MSHA requirements
  • Must have valid license
  • Excellent inter-personal skills
  • Communicate in a professional manner and conduct presentations successfully at all levels of the organization
  • MS Office proficiency (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
  • 10 hour/30 hour OSHA certification preferred

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive Salary
  • PTO and Holidays
  • Community Involvement
  • Team Building Events
  • Annual Company Events
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401k
  • Profit-Sharing
  • Performance Bonuses

Equal Opportunity Statement: As an equal opportunity employer Kerr Contractors will hire without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability. Kerr Contractors also enforces a zero-tolerance drug policy.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process, don't hesitate to get in touch with Human Resources at employment@kerrcontractors.com