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Fire Dozer Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Heber, UT ยท On-site

$26.90 - $34.47/hr

Operates specialized heavy equipment such as road grader, dozer, compactors, and medium equipment ... May obtain wildland fire red card endorsement. * May obtain non-commercial pesticide applicator ...

Public Works Equipment Operator

Heber, UT ยท On-site

$26.90 - $34.47/hr

Operates specialized heavy equipment such as road grader, dozer, compactors, and medium equipment ... May obtain wildland fire red card endorsement. * May obtain non-commercial pesticide applicator ...

Fire Dozer Operator information

See Utah salary details

$15

$23

$41

How much do fire dozer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire dozer operator in Utah is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator job?

Fire dozer operators, who operate bulldozers in wildfire suppression and land management, can earn high wages, especially with experience and specialized skills. Generally, heavy equipment operators working in high-risk environments or with specialized machinery tend to have higher salaries, with some earning over $70,000 annually depending on location and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fire Dozer Operator position, and why are they important?

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.

How much does a firefighter dozer operator make?

Fire dozer operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They operate heavy machinery like bulldozers to create firebreaks and assist in wildfire suppression, often working in remote or hazardous environments and requiring specialized training and certifications.

What is a Fire Dozer Operator job?

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 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 firefighter dozer operator?

To become a firefighter dozer operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience operating heavy equipment, and certification such as a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Training programs or on-the-job training are often required to develop skills in fire suppression and equipment operation in wildfire environments.

How much does a dozer operator make for Cal Fire?

A fire dozer operator working for Cal Fire typically earns between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience and location. They often work seasonal hours, with additional pay for overtime and specialized certifications such as heavy equipment operation. Salaries can vary based on union agreements and specific job assignments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Dozer Operator jobs in Utah? The most popular types of Fire Dozer Operator jobs in Utah are:

Equipment Operator

Wasatch County

Heber, UT โ€ข On-site

$26.90 - $34.47/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Public Works Supervisor, performs journey level skilled tasks in the operation and maintenance of light to heavy-duty equipment as needed to construct, maintain, repair, and emergency operations of County roads and service systems.

STEP AND GRADE CHARACTERISTICS

This is the classification level responsible for operating highly specialized heavy equipment and performing related duties.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Operates specialized heavy equipment such as road grader, dozer, compactors, and medium equipment such as backhoe, front-end loader, water wagon, oiling truck, power broom, chipper, roller, tractor, and other similar equipment in the maintenance, construction and repair of County road system.
  • Monitors flood control channels to prevent blockage, clears, culverts of debris, repairs potholes, highway shoulders, lays road cover and gravel.
  • Operates trucks, dump trucks, and pups, vac broom truck, snowplow and sanders in hauling, plowing and cleaning streets and highways.
  • Performs duties with due regard for personal safety of other employees and the public.
  • Assists in training subordinates in proper safety practices.
  • Performs as a flag person as assigned to ensure safety while working on highways. Trains and instructs less skilled employees in the proper operation and general maintenance of heavy and medium sized equipment.
  • Repairs and replaces highway markers and road signs.
  • May operate mower to clean and maintain weed growth or perform noxious weed spraying duties in support of the countywide noxious weed program.
  • May remove, minimize, and control noxious weeds; including operating weed and tractor mowers, backhoes, sprayers, and winches.
  • Controls tree growth in the right-of-ways.
  • Operates dozer as needed to control wild lands fires by pushing firebreaks.
  • Assists to control wild land fires whenever and wherever requested.
  • Performs carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and painting duties as required in construction, maintenance, and repair of County structures, buildings, and grounds.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Ability to maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the course of work activities. Skill in basic reading, writing, and math.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  • Skill in road construction and heavy equipment operation.
  • Ability to operate light equipment.
  • Ability to work with or without direct supervision.
  • Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions related to construction and equipment operation.
  • Knowledge of traffic laws, ordinances, and regulations.
  • Knowledge of safety standards, regulations, and protocol for equipment operated and chemicals used.
  • Knowledge of chemical profiles for noxious weeds

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Occasionally lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects weighing up to 60 pounds.
  • Ascend or descend ladders, scaffolding, ramps, poles, and the like.
  • Use tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity.
  • Walk, stand, crouch, or run on narrow, slippery, or erratically moving surfaces.
  • Regularly drives a motor vehicle.
  • Work for sustained periods maintaining concentrated attention to detail.
  • Need to distinguish between shades of color. Communicate via radio.
  • Respond to on-call situations.
  • Accommodation may be made for some of these physical demands for otherwise qualified individuals who require and request such accommodation.

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Work is performed in a very noisy place.
  • Work exposes incumbent to conditions such as fumes, noxious odors, dust, mists, gases, and poor ventilation.
  • Work exposes incumbent to possible bodily injury from moving parts of equipment, tools, or machinery.
  • Work is performed for sustained periods outdoors and occasionally in hot, cold, or inclement weather.
  • Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, gloves, and goggles.
  • Work exposes incumbent to unknown, dangerous, and/or life-threatening conditions including working at night.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Equivalent to a high school diploma. Two (2) years of road or general construction work experience, including operation of heavy equipment.

LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION

  • Must possess a valid State of Utah Class A(CDL) Commercial Driver's License.
  • Must pass ICC physical and maintain medical certificate.
  • May obtain wildland fire red card endorsement.
  • May obtain non-commercial pesticide applicator certification.

**This description lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive. Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills.


Employment with the county is contingent upon successful completion of the pre-employment drug screening.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro