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Earthwork Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ALIGN Executive Search

Project Manager (Civil)

Tustin, CA · On-site

$190K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We specialize in earthwork, grading, paving, highway construction, and structures work -- building the roads, bridges, and public infrastructure that communities depend on. We are seeking a Senior ...

ALIGN Executive Search

Project Manager Construction

Tustin, CA · On-site

$205K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We specialize in earthwork, grading, paving, highway construction, and structures work -- building the roads, bridges, and public infrastructure that communities depend on. We are seeking a Senior ...

Tait & Associates, Inc.

Civil Design Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Day-to-day work includes Civil 3D modeling, earthwork calculations, and preparing SWMPs, drainage studies, and utility reports alongside an experienced engineering team. Essential Duties ...

Geosoils Inc

Be Seen First

Project Geologist

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Conduct site reconnaissance and geologic mapping * Assist with slope stability evaluations and earthwork recommendations * Prepare geotechnical and geologic reports under senior staff supervision

Geosoils Inc

Be Seen First

Project Geologist

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Conduct site reconnaissance and geologic mapping * Assist with slope stability evaluations and earthwork recommendations * Prepare geotechnical and geologic reports under senior staff supervision

Geosoils Inc

Be Seen First

Project Geologist

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Conduct site reconnaissance and geologic mapping * Assist with slope stability evaluations and earthwork recommendations * Prepare geotechnical and geologic reports under senior staff supervision

Tait & Associates, Inc.

Civil Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Day-to-day work includes Civil 3D modeling, earthwork calculations, and preparing SWMPs, drainage studies, and utility reports alongside an experienced engineering team. Essential Duties ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsEarthwork JobsEarthwork Jobs in California

Earthwork information

See California salary details

$5

$26

$35

How much do earthwork jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for earthwork in California is $26.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $32.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an earthwork?

Earthwork jobs involve the excavation, movement, and processing of soil, rocks, and other materials to prepare land for construction or landscaping projects. These jobs include tasks such as digging, grading, trenching, and compacting soil, often using heavy machinery like excavators and bulldozers. Earthwork professionals play a crucial role in building roads, foundations, and other infrastructure by ensuring ground surfaces are properly shaped and stable. The work requires knowledge of soil types, safety regulations, and equipment operation.

What are some typical challenges faced by earthwork professionals on construction sites?

Earthwork professionals often encounter challenges such as unexpected soil conditions, weather disruptions, and coordinating with multiple teams to maintain project timelines. Adjusting to changes in site plans or dealing with underground obstacles like rocks or utilities requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Effective communication with surveyors, engineers, and equipment operators is essential to ensure safety and efficiency throughout the project.

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

To thrive in Earthwork, strong knowledge of soil types, grading, excavation techniques, and safety practices is essential, usually supported by relevant certifications or experience in construction or civil engineering. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and GPS-guided grading systems is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with crews and ensuring project accuracy. These skills and qualities are critical for completing earthmoving projects safely, efficiently, and to specification.

What is the difference between Earthwork vs Excavation Worker?

AspectEarthworkExcavation Worker
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operationOSHA safety training, equipment operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, large-scale projectsConstruction sites, outdoor, focused on digging and trenching
Industry UsageBroad term covering site preparation, grading, and earth movingSpecific role within earthwork, mainly digging and trenching tasks
Common Search IntentUnderstanding earthwork processes and rolesJobs involving excavation tasks

Earthwork is a broad term encompassing all activities related to moving and shaping soil and rock on construction sites, including grading, leveling, and site preparation. Excavation Worker is a specific role within earthwork focused primarily on digging trenches, holes, and foundations. While both require similar certifications and work in outdoor construction environments, earthwork covers a wider range of tasks, whereas excavation workers specialize in digging operations.

What are popular job titles related to Earthwork jobs in California?

For Earthwork jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Earthwork jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Earthwork jobs in California are:

Earthwork jobs near you
Infographic showing various Earthwork job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,933 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Concrete Estimator

Turpin Landscaping & Construction

Long Beach, CA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Construction Estimator with a strong background in concrete, masonry, structural steel, and grading. This role is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and complete cost estimates for public and private projects throughout Southern California. The estimator will work closely with operations, project management, and ownership to ensure scopes are fully captured, risks are identified, and projects are bid for profitable execution.

Estimating & Takeoffs

  • Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for:

    • Structural and site concrete

    • Masonry (CMU, site walls, architectural block)

    • Structural steel (misc. metals, embeds, connections)

    • Grading and earthwork (cut/fill, export/import, compaction)

  • Review architectural, structural, and civil plans, specifications, and addenda

  • Identify constructability issues, scope gaps, and cost risks early

Pricing & Cost Development

  • Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing

  • Apply appropriate production rates and labor efficiencies

  • Solicit and analyze subcontractor and supplier quotes

  • Evaluate prevailing wage requirements when applicable

  • Prepare lump-sum and time-and-material pricing as required

Bid Preparation & Review

  • Assemble complete bid proposals and cost summaries

  • Ensure scope coverage aligns with contract requirements

  • Participate in internal bid reviews and strategy meetings

  • Assist with value engineering and alternates

  • Support post-bid clarifications and negotiations

Coordination & Pre-Construction Support

  • Coordinate with project managers and field leadership during handoff

  • Assist with budgets, schedules, and pre-construction planning

  • Maintain historical cost data and pricing databases

  • Track bid results and refine estimating accuracy over time

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil and/or commercial construction

  • Proven experience estimating:

    • Concrete (footings, slabs, foundations, site concrete)

    • Masonry (CMU, site walls)

    • Structural steel and miscellaneous metals

    • Grading and earthwork

  • Strong understanding of Southern California construction practices

  • Ability to read and interpret plans, specs, and geotechnical reports

  • Experience with prevailing wage and public works is a plus

  • Proficient with Bluebeam

  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

Preferred Skills & Experience

  • Experience working with self-performed concrete and grading crews

  • Knowledge of pump types, forming systems, rebar detailing, and finishing methods

  • Familiarity with steel fabrication vs. erection scopes

  • Ability to clearly define inclusions, exclusions, and assumptions

  • Strong communication skills with both field and office teams

  • Ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience

  • Performance-based bonuses

  • Health benefits (if applicable)

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Long-term growth opportunity within a growing construction company

Why Join Us

  • Work on diverse and challenging projects across Southern California

  • Direct collaboration with ownership and operations

  • Strong support from in-house crews and trusted trade partners

  • Opportunity to shape estimating standards and processes

Company Description

Turpin Construction is a Southern California contractor specializing in concrete, masonry, structural steel, and grading, delivering disciplined estimating, quality construction, and reliable execution on every project.