1

Heavy Fire Dozer Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... Driver Operator 1A and 1B completion certificate. 5. Complete San Bernardino County Sheriff ... Must be able to lift, drag, and pull heavy objects up to 150 pounds. Must be able to work outdoors ...

Logging Operator

Cameron Park, CA

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Role Overview CTL Forestry is seeking skilled Heavy Equipment Operators to support forestry ... Maneuver equipment safely and precisely in steep terrain, dense vegetation, post-fire environments ...

Be Seen First

Heavy Duty Truck Mechanic - Salinas, CA

Salinas, CA · On-site

$4.7K - $6.5K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Repair trucks, trailers, fire trucks, buses, and other motor vehicles * Specialize in Heavy Truck ... We are a family-owned and operated corporation that has been serving our loyal customers since 2007.

Equipment Operator

Richmond, CA · On-site

$35.89 - $42.31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operation of a dozer or other grading equipment to maintain facility roadways and/or maintain ... Experience: * Heavy equipment operator experience at an intermediate to experienced level.

Equipment Operator

Richmond, CA

$35.89 - $42.31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operation of a dozer or other grading equipment to maintain facility roadways and/or maintain ... Experience: * Heavy equipment operator experience at an intermediate to experienced level.

Yard Attendant

Wilmington, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $22/hr

Drives/operates heavy and light equipment. * Performs facility inspections (per checklists) and ... Basic assembly of equipment i.e. dozer blades, etc. * Checks fluid and fuel levels on equipment.

Showing results 41-60

Heavy Fire Dozer Operator information

See California salary details

$16

$24

$44

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy 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 heavy fire dozer operator?

Heavy Fire Dozer Operators are specialized equipment operators who use bulldozers and similar heavy machinery to help control and suppress wildfires. They create firebreaks by clearing vegetation, soil, and debris, which helps to slow or stop the spread of fire. These operators work closely with firefighting teams, often in challenging and hazardous conditions, to provide critical support during wildfire emergencies. Their expertise in handling heavy equipment is vital for both the safety of crews and the effectiveness of firefighting efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy fire dozer operator?

To thrive as a Heavy Fire Dozer Operator, you need expertise in heavy equipment operation, a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), and knowledge of wildfire suppression techniques. Familiarity with GPS navigation, radio communication systems, and fire-specific machinery is commonly required, along with safety certifications such as S-130/S-190. Strong situational awareness, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring safety, effective wildfire containment, and seamless coordination during high-risk emergency operations.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy fire dozer operators during wildfire suppression efforts?

Heavy Fire Dozer Operators often work in rugged, unpredictable terrain and under extreme weather conditions, which can present significant safety and operational challenges. Navigating limited visibility due to smoke, coordinating with ground crews and aerial resources, and adapting to rapidly changing fire behavior are all part of the job. Additionally, operators must remain vigilant to avoid hazards like falling trees, unstable ground, and equipment malfunctions. Strong communication skills and the ability to make quick, sound decisions are essential for success and safety in this high-pressure environment.

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

AspectHeavy Fire Dozer OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsTypically requires CDL and specialized dozer trainingRequires CDL and various equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, firefighting supportConstruction, mining, industrial sites
Job FocusOperating dozers for fire suppression, land clearing, or constructionOperating a variety of heavy machinery for earthmoving

The main difference between a Heavy Fire Dozer Operator and a Heavy Equipment Operator lies in their specific roles and work environments. Heavy Fire Dozer Operators often focus on land clearing and firefighting support, requiring specialized training for dozer operation. Heavy Equipment Operators have a broader scope, operating various machinery across construction and industrial sites. Both roles require similar certifications but serve different operational purposes.

Infographic showing various Heavy Fire Dozer Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 56% Physical, 43% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,870 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

$89K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

The contents of the job bulletin should not be construed as an implied contract. All information is subject to change and the City is not bound to any information or errors contained in the bulletin. This posting may close earlier than the indicated closing date if an excessive number of applications is received.

The closing date may also be extended, or the job may be re-posted if an insufficient number of applications is received during the initial posting period. Job Description Under general supervision, drives assigned fire apparatus or other automotive equipment to scenes of emergencies; operates fire pumps, aerial devices, and other Fire Department equipment; assists in suppression of fires and the mitigation of other emergency incidents; performs inspection, preventive maintenance and minor repairs of Department apparatus and equipment; participates in fire prevention inspections, pre-fire planning and public education presentations; and performs related duties as required. Essential Job Duties (include but are not limited to the following) Responds to fire and other emergency alarms by driving assigned fire apparatus or other automotive equipment; assists in fire suppression activities; protects life and property; performs as truck company supervisor when assigned; administers emergency medical aid; inspects, services, and maintains assigned fire equipment; inspects residential and commercial occupancies as assigned and ensures compliance with federal, state, and local fire prevention laws and regulations; participates and instructs firefighters in maintaining fire stations, quarters, grounds, and equipment; performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs of fire apparatus and instructs firefighters in these duties; maintains competency in training and instruction programs through individual study and attendance at drills and classes; assists in training and evaluating probationary firefighters when assigned; performs other firefighting and fire prevention duties; periodically performs out of classification on an interim or temporary basis; assists fire captains in some collateral responsibilities such as record keeping and research and development functions; conducts specialized educational programs; and performs public relations activities in the interest of fire prevention and safety as directed by departmental supervisor.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES This class reports to a Fire Captain and is a promotional class from Firefighter, with emphasis on technical, legal, and leadership skills; and may act as a company commander. Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of: Principles of hydraulics as applied to fire suppression; modern fire prevention and suppression strategy and tactics; hazardous materials and caustic substances; design, use, and maintenance of fire apparatus and equipment; emergency medical techniques; city and departmental policies, rules, and regulations; federal, state, and local laws governing fire prevention and safety; location of water mains and fire hydrants in the district; geography of the city, district, and automatic aid areas; and basic principles of accepted supervisory practices and organizational relationships. Skills/Ability to: Operate fire trucks, pumpers, aerial devices, and other large equipment safely, efficiently, and effectively under adverse conditions; work under pressure and in hazardous situations; perform duties requiring physical endurance and agility; learn a variety of legal and technical material; develop and maintain records and reports; maintain effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, and the public; and maintain required level of competency in the appropriate areas of fire science.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Graduation from High School or G.E.D. required. At least two years of paid full-time experience as a Firefighter with a public agency

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS 1. A valid California Driver License with a Firefighter endorsement. 2.

A valid Emergency Medical Technician Certificate or Paramedic License required. 3. A valid Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR/BLS) certificate.

4. Driver Operator 1A and 1B completion certificate. 5.

Complete San Bernardino County Sheriff Emergency Vehicle Operations Center (EVOC) course by the end of probation. PHYSICAL DEMANDS In the performance of daily activities, this position requires the ability to sit, stand, and walk for up to two hours at a time. Must be able to reach, grasp, twist, turn, and bend.

The ability to climb, stoop, knee, squat, run, and jump. Must be able to lift, drag, and pull heavy objects up to 150 pounds. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions including cold, wet, and hot with extreme sun exposure.

SELECTION PROCESS (Read Carefully) 1. All applicants must hold required licenses and certificates as required to be considered. 2.

Upload proof of all required licenses/certificates listed below under the "Attachments" section of the application: Required Documents to Attach to the Online Application High School Diploma, G.E.D., or transcript showing completion. Valid California Driver's License with Firefighter endorsement. Valid Emergency Medical Technician Certificate or Paramedic License Valid Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR/BLS) certificate

Driver Operator 1A Certificate. Driver Operator 1B Certificate. Failure to provide proof of the required documents above may lead to disqualification during the screening process.

3. All applications received will be screened in relation to the criteria outline in this job announcement. Candidates will be reviewed and only those determined to be the most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted will be invited to participate further in the selection process.

Meeting the minimum requirements listed in this job announcement does not guarantee advancement in subsequent phases of the selection process. The selection process may be changed as deemed necessary by the City Human Resources Department. 4.

Top candidates will be invited to a written examination on a future date (to be determined). The written examination will be a multiple choice pass/fail examination with a requirement of 70% in order to achieve a passing score. Questions on the written examination are sourced from the following publications: IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting 7th Edition; and IFSTA Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook 3rd Edition.

5. Candidates passing the written examination will be invited to participate in a structured oral interview and practical examination (Type 1 Engine pumping) on a future date (to be determined). 6.

Successful candidates' names will be placed on an eligibility list from which a selection will be made. The candidate's total overall score throughout the testing process will be weighted according to the following: (Oral Interview - 50% of total score, Practical Pumping Assessment - 50% of total score). (Candidates must maintain a 70% or higher score on each section of the examination process for both oral interview as well as practical pumping assessment in order to move forward in the process.) 7

Candidates will be required to complete a Fire Chief's oral interview after the eligibility list is approved prior to hiring. 8. Final appointments will be made by the City Manager, upon the recommendation of the Fire Chief.

9. Candidate(s) must pass a thorough background investigation and pre-employment physical (including a drug screening) prior to hiring. **Note: Current Montclair Fire Department employees will be exempt from this requirement.

10. To complete your application for this position, you will be prompted to respond to supplemental questions. This information will be used as part of the application screening and selection process and is designed to help you present your qualifications for this position.

This may include a selection step in which your application and supplemental questions are reviewed. The City of Montclair is an Equal Opportunity Employer.