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Scraper Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mortenson

Operator Journeyman

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals * Ability to operate equipment by ...

Mortenson

Operator Forklift

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

Novelis

Cold Mill Operator 1

Davenport, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Novelis has approximately 13,000 employees in 32 operating ... Scrapes floor around mill as needed with long handled scraper. * Using hook, retrieves bands ...

Signal Energy

Heavy Equipment Operator

Coggon, IA

We are looking for a team of Operators to join our team to support the Mechanical Scope of our ... Scraper * Forklift/Telehandler * Bobcat/Skidsteer * Roller * Backhoe * Excavator * Tractor Skills ...

Signal Energy

Heavy Equipment Operator

Coggon, IA · On-site

We are looking for a team of Operators to join our team to support the Mechanical Scope of our ... Scraper * Forklift/Telehandler * Bobcat/Skidsteer * Roller * Backhoe * Excavator * Tractor Skills ...

All JobsScraper Operator JobsScraper Operator Jobs in Iowa

Scraper Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$24

$29

How much do scraper operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for scraper operator in Iowa is $24.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.46 and $27.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Scraper Operator vs Driller?

AspectScraper OperatorDriller
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, specialized training or certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, excavationMining sites, construction, oil & gas industries
Industry UsageHeavy equipment operation in excavation and earthmovingDrilling operations for mineral, oil, or gas extraction

Both Scraper Operators and Drillers work in construction and mining environments, often requiring similar certifications and safety training. While Scraper Operators focus on earthmoving using scrapers, Drillers specialize in creating boreholes for resource extraction. Their roles are distinct but complementary within heavy industry projects.

What are some common challenges a Scraper Operator might face on the job site?

Scraper Operators often work in challenging conditions, including rough terrain, changing weather, and tight project deadlines. Navigating large, heavy equipment safely around other machinery and workers requires constant attention and strong communication skills. Additionally, operators must regularly inspect and maintain their equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure efficiency. Adapting to varying soil types and site layouts is also a key challenge, requiring problem-solving and technical know-how.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Scraper operators and similar skilled trades can sometimes earn around $4,000 weekly through experience, overtime, or specialized skills, especially in high-demand industries like construction, manufacturing, or technical services. These roles often require technical knowledge, safety certifications, and the ability to operate complex equipment, but typically do not require a college degree.

What Is a Scraper Operator?

A scraper operator works with heavy equipment to move, haul, or grade the earth. In this career, you operate tools like a bulldozer or grader at different construction sites to build road beds, ditches, and water reservoirs. Your job duties can also include spreading the earth, carrying large amounts of dirt to another location, oiling and calibrating machinery, and smoothing roads. Skills in machinery maintenance and a high school diploma or GED certificate are essential qualifications for this job. Your employer should provide training so you can gain first-hand scraper operator experience. Vocational programs are also available.

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

To thrive as a Scraper Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, site safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with GPS machine control systems, maintenance tools, and possibly a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and communication skills help operators coordinate safely and efficiently with other crew members. These skills ensure the safe, precise, and timely completion of earthmoving projects, reducing downtime and preventing accidents.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator?

The highest paying heavy equipment operators are often those who operate specialized machinery such as crane or bulldozer operators, especially with extensive experience and certifications. In general, crane operators tend to earn higher wages due to the skill and safety requirements involved, with median salaries exceeding $60,000 annually and top earners making over $100,000 in some regions.

What are scraper operators?

Scraper operators are skilled heavy equipment operators who drive and control scraper machines, which are used primarily in construction, mining, and earthmoving projects. Their main responsibility is to operate scrapers to move, load, and level large amounts of soil or other materials efficiently. They must be knowledgeable about safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and site plans to ensure the work is performed accurately and safely. Scraper operators often work closely with other construction crew members and may be required to perform basic troubleshooting and repairs on their equipment.

What does a scraper operator do?

A scraper operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery called scrapers, which are used to move and level earth and other materials on construction or mining sites. They inspect equipment, follow safety protocols, and work with other construction team members to complete projects efficiently. Proficiency in machinery operation and safety certifications are often required.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Scraper operators and other skilled trades can sometimes earn $700 a day, especially with specialized experience, certifications, or working in high-demand environments. Such pay rates are more common in industries like construction, oil and gas, or specialized manufacturing, often requiring long hours or overtime. Compensation varies based on location, experience, and the complexity of the work performed.
More about Scraper Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Scraper Operator jobs in Iowa? For Scraper Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scraper Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Scraper Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Scraper Operator jobs in IA? For Scraper Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Scraper Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scraper Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,641 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Operator Journeyman

Operator Journeyman

M. A. Mortenson Company

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Mortenson rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Operator Journeyman
SUMMARY
Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator Journeyman that will be responsible for operating heavy equipment as directed and specified while adhering to all rules and regulations as mandated by Mortenson safety policies and procedures.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid-steer, boom lifts/aerial lifts, and roller
  • Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly housekeeping
  • Perform routine maintenance, observe equipment operation, and detect malfunctions
  • Follow work plans and pre-task cards; provide leadership by displaying resourcefulness, work habits, and problem-solving skills
  • Build relationships with diverse backgrounds and organizational levels
  • Perform all other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Equipment certifications as required
  • Minimum one (1) year of related experience
  • Current driver's license with proper classification including endorsements as required by law
  • Strong teamwork orientation, positive attitude, professional customer service skills, and detail-oriented; ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
  • Ability to operate equipment by moving levers, shifting gears, depressing pedals, and maneuvering steering wheels; knowledge of equipment and their uses; basic mathematical skills
  • Ability to work independently with active listening and effective communication skills, open to diverse input and feedback
  • Repetitive hand, arm, leg movements
  • *Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling: up to 50 lbs
  • Please note: this position description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position. The duties and responsibilities of this position may change without notice.

*Lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling over 50 lbs will be done with assistance of another team member or equipment.
Please make note:
  • Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.
  • Our postings are typically open a minimum of 5 days and an average of 44 days.

ABOUT MORTENSON
As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction), our expertise spans markets like sports, renewable energy, data centers, healthcare, and more. We are builders at heart, working to ensure the built environment has a lasting positive impact.
Let's Redefine Possible®
Equal Employment Opportunity
Your uniqueness brings new and creative perspectives to the team. Mortenson is committed to providing equal opportunities of employment (EOE) to all individuals, regardless of your race, religion, gender, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status or any other legally protected category.
Other Items to Note
  • Mortenson reserves the right to hire any individual without legal or financial obligation on unwanted solicitations. No agency emails, calls, or solicitations are accepted without a valid agreement.
  • Must be currently legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status, 0-1, TN, CPT, OPT, etc.). We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

What Mortenson employees say

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M. A. Mortenson logo

About M. A. Mortenson

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M. A. Mortenson is a prominent name in the construction industry, based out of Minneapolis, MN, US. Established in 1954 by M.A. Mortenson Sr., the company has over six decades of experience offering construction services that have contributed to building lasting infrastructures across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, corporate, and sports. Mortenson has proven its exceptional expertise through a range of complex building and facility projects across the US fulfilling the customer's specifications and exceeding their expectations. Moreover, the company's core values are outlined as ‘Do the Right Thing’, ‘We Before I’, ‘Inspire What’s Possible’, and ‘In it for the long haul’.

Industry

Manufacturing and construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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