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Freelance Fire Dozer Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baker Construction Enterprises

Excavator Operator

Hamlet, NC · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Serves as designated "fire watch" for welding and other hot work applications * Assists in ... Ability to handle equipment such as Fork-lift , Back-hoe, Excavator, Roller, Dozer, Skid steer ...

Baker Construction Enterprises

Excavator Operator

Hamlet, NC · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Serves as designated "fire watch" for welding and other hot work applications * Assists in ... Ability to handle equipment such as Fork-lift , Back-hoe, Excavator, Roller, Dozer, Skid steer ...

baker construction

Excavator Operator

Hamlet, NC · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Serves as designated "fire watch" for welding and other hot work applications * Assists in ... Ability to handle equipment such as Fork-lift, Back-hoe, Excavator, Roller, Dozer, Skid steer ...

Jerritt Canyon Gold

Site Services Technician

Elko, NV

$19.75 - $27/hr

... dozer, forklift, backhoe, overhead crane, fusion welders and trucks. * Complete preventative ... Knowledge of fire sprinkler systems, fire pumps, and alarm panels. * General construction related ...

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Freelance Fire Dozer Operator information

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$16

$25

$45

How much do freelance fire dozer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance fire dozer operator in the United States is $25.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Freelance Fire Dozer Operator?

A Freelance Fire Dozer Operator is a heavy equipment operator who specializes in operating bulldozers and similar machinery to create firebreaks and clear vegetation during wildfire suppression efforts. Unlike full-time employees, freelance operators are hired on a per-project basis, often during peak fire seasons or emergencies. Their main responsibility is to assist firefighting teams by constructing barriers that help contain and control the spread of wildfires. This role requires specialized training in both equipment operation and wildfire safety protocols. Freelance operators may work for government agencies, private contractors, or land management companies.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance fire dozer operators during wildfire response operations?

Freelance fire dozer operators often encounter unpredictable and hazardous conditions, including rugged terrain, limited visibility due to smoke, and rapidly changing fire behavior. As freelancers, they must also adapt quickly to varying incident command structures and coordinate closely with other firefighting teams, such as hand crews and engine operators, to ensure effective and safe operations. Managing fatigue during long shifts and maintaining equipment reliability in remote locations are also frequent challenges. Building strong communication skills and staying current with safety protocols are essential for success in this dynamic environment.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Fire Dozer Operator, you need extensive experience operating heavy machinery, especially bulldozers, and typically require a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and relevant safety certifications. Familiarity with GPS guidance systems, fireline construction techniques, and maintenance protocols for dozers is essential. Strong situational awareness, communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe, effective, and timely creation of firebreaks to protect lives and property during wildfire incidents.

What is the difference between Freelance Fire Dozer Operator vs Fire Equipment Operator?

AspectFreelance Fire Dozer OperatorFire Equipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires dozer operation certifications and firefighting safety trainingRequires fire equipment operation certifications and safety training
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in wildfire suppression, often on temporary or contract basisOperates fire trucks and equipment at fire scenes or training sites
Employer & IndustryContracted by firefighting agencies or private contractors in wildfire managementEmployed by fire departments or government agencies

While both roles involve operating specialized equipment in firefighting contexts, Freelance Fire Dozer Operators focus on using bulldozers for wildfire containment, often working independently or on contract. Fire Equipment Operators typically handle various fire trucks and related machinery as part of a firefighting team. The key differences lie in the equipment used, work setting, and employment type.

More about Freelance Fire Dozer Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Fire Dozer Operator jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Fire Dozer Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Dozer Operator jobs? The most popular types of Fire Dozer Operator jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Freelance Fire Dozer Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Fire Dozer Operator jobs are:
Freelance Fire Dozer Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Fire Dozer Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 92% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 55% Physical, 44% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,558 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Excavator Operator

Excavator Operator

Baker Construction Enterprises

Hamlet, NC • On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Req ID: 7841
Travel: None
Number of Openings: 3
Find a greater purpose with a team that puts people first. Baker Construction is the nation's top specialty concrete contractor. At Baker, you can count on steady work and reliable pay. When you finish one job, the next one is already lined up. You'll be able to provide for your family with confidence. Your hard work will pay off with more opportunities to train and advance.
If you have grit and determination, you'll have the support you need to achieve your dreams. Apply today and be more with Baker.
Summary
Under the supervision of a foreman/lead, the Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery such as forklifts, backhoes, excavators, dozers, skid steer loaders, track loaders, rubber tire loaders, etc. to move earth, rocks, and debris on construction sites. The Operator is responsible for lay-outs, fine grading, and completing finishing applications and hoisting. Additionally, the Operator ensures the equipment is well maintained and operating efficiently.
Roles and Responsibilities
The Equipment Operator will possess competency in the following areas in order to perform their role in a safe, productive, and effective manner. Note that the areas listed are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by co-workers assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job.
  • Sets-up and uses a rotating laser to ensure a level grade.
  • Sets-up and uses a Slope laser to ensure a sloping grade.
  • Maintains production with fine grade operation such as placement of rock trucks.
  • Ensures proper grade is obtained
  • Determines equipment needed as well as rate of delivery for rock.
  • Determines what type of equipment is needed to produce the required compaction.
  • Exercises the proper methods of backfilling in lifts (for example keep lifts level and consistent for proper compaction.)
  • Controls and maintains lay-out lines during excavation.
  • Maintains OSHA standards with benching and slopes during and after operation.
  • Determines what type of lay-back or bench is needed for safe working conditions by type of soils.
  • Determines a percentage of spoils to remain for backfill if using on-site materials and places in a manner that is free from wet conditions.
  • Determines how many spoil trucks will be needed for a continuous flow without trucks stacking up or equipment setting.
  • Determines what type of equipment is needed.

Supply Chain
  • Tracks and escorts deliveries
  • Inspects quality of materials and signs tickets
  • Maintains barcode tags for inventory control
  • Maintains dumpsters

E,H&S
  • Serves as designated "fire watch" for welding and other hot work applications
  • Assists in inspection of fall protection equipment
  • Serves as a confined space attendant
  • Flags as necessary for operators
  • Serves as crane spotter and inspects swing path
  • Maintains hydration and sanitation stations
  • Maintains port-o-cleans
  • Serves as a "hole watch"

Equipment
  • Tracks, inspects, and performs sign-in & sign-out procedures
  • Performs maintenance and repair on equipment

Estimating
  • Maintains drawing copies and revisions

Administrative
  • Escorts new hires, visitors and corporate personnel
  • Tracks office inventory, organizes supplies and tidies job trailer
  • Runs errands, files, faxes & answers incoming calls

Requirements
The Equipment Operator will possess the knowledge, skill, and/or ability in the following areas essential to perform the functions of the position.
  • High School diploma or equivalent; minimum of one year of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Ability to write routine correspondence, and communicate with co-workers.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
  • Ability to calculate mathematical figures such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
  • Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, and proportions to practical situations.
  • Ability to read and use a tape measure and apply associated math skills.
  • Ability to work with others in a team environment.
  • Ability to deal with problems involving specific variables in standardized situations.
  • Ability to comprehend documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedures manuals.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished by written, oral or diagram form.
  • Must have the ability to exert heavy physical effort, handling average weight objects up to 80 pounds.
  • Ability to kneel, stoop, crouch, balance, climb or crawl.
  • Ability to handle equipment such as Fork-lift , Back-hoe, Excavator, Roller, Dozer, Skid steer Loader, Track Loader, and Rubber tire loader
  • Ability to tolerate heights without fear.
  • Ability to maintain balance.

At Baker Construction, we welcome those who are driven to make things happen. You'll earn great pay and benefits to protect you and your family and to plan for your future. We're also a company deeply rooted in values. We put people first, honor our word, and have the grit to get the job done. Go further with a team that will value and reward your grit.
Baker is an EOE Disability/Veterans Employer.
Applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities who require a reasonable accommodation for any or part of the application process may make their requests known by emailing hrtech@sharedservices.cc or calling 1-513-539-4000 and asking for HR.

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