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Fire Dozer Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Fire Dozer Operator information

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How much do fire dozer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire dozer operator in California is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire dozer operator?

A Fire Dozer Operator operates heavy bulldozers to create firebreaks and assist in wildfire suppression efforts. They work with firefighting crews to clear vegetation, build containment lines, and access difficult terrain. Operators must have experience handling heavy equipment in hazardous conditions and be familiar with wildfire behavior. This role requires quick decision-making, physical endurance, and coordination with firefighting teams to help control and contain wildfires safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the fire dozer operator position?

To thrive as a Fire Dozer Operator, you need expertise in heavy equipment operation, a solid understanding of wildland fire behavior, and typically a commercial driver's license (CDL) or relevant heavy equipment certification. Operators must be proficient with dozers and related firefighting tools, as well as follow established safety protocols and communications systems such as radio dispatch. Strong situational awareness, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure are important soft skills for this demanding role. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient support to firefighting crews while protecting lives, property, and natural resources during wildfire incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by fire dozer operators during wildfire incidents?

Fire Dozer Operators often face physical and mental challenges, including working in rugged terrain, rapidly changing fire conditions, and exposure to smoke and heat. Operators must stay alert for hazards such as falling trees, poor visibility, and shifting wind patterns, all while maneuvering heavy equipment near active fire lines. The work is typically performed as part of a larger wildfire response team, requiring effective communication and close coordination with incident commanders and ground crews. Being able to quickly adapt and make safe decisions under these dynamic conditions is crucial for both personal safety and the overall success of firefighting efforts.

How to become a fire dozer operator?

To become a fire dozer operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and experience operating heavy equipment like bulldozers. Training on fire suppression techniques and obtaining certifications such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specialized wildfire equipment training can improve job prospects; physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging outdoor conditions are also important.

What do fire dozer operators make?

Fire dozer operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They operate heavy machinery to create firebreaks and control wildfires, often working in challenging outdoor environments and requiring specialized training and certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Dozer Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Fire Dozer Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Fire Dozer Operator jobs in California?

For Fire Dozer Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fire Dozer Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Dozer Operator jobs in California are:

Fire Dozer Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Dozer Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,870 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Fire Dozer Operator)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

San Fernando, CA

$57K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

United States Department Of Agriculture rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

454th of 854 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

This position is located within the Pacific Southwest Region, Region 5.
This position serves as an assistant to the Fire Dozer Operator of a Forest Service Fire Dozer Module.
For additional information about the duties of this position, please contact Brian Grabowski - brian.grabowski@usda.govQualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
GW-06: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-5)
Specialized experience is defined as examples of the following: Made initial evaluation of fire situation and determined suppression methods to use, suppression access, vehicle placement, deployment of dozer, and point of initial attack. Laid out fuel reduction contract areas and conducted the initial surveys to establish area boundaries and prepared maps delineating treatment areas. Assisted the operator of fire dozer module in responding to wildland fires. Assisted in directing the dozer to fire location and positioning in appropriate location in consideration of safety of personnel and equipment.
OR
One full year (18 semester/27 quarter hours) of successfully completed graduate level coursework that is directly related to the work of the position (such as forestry, range management, agriculture);
OR
Combinations of graduate level education that is directly related to the position and specialized experience. The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience
Selective Placement Factors
Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within 90 Days of Entry on Duty.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a primary/rigorous position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS level is a condition of employment.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:See QUALIFICATION section for educational requirements.Employment Type: OTHER

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