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Scraper Operator Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Scraper Operator information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$11

$26

$31

How much do scraper operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for scraper operator in Philadelphia, PA is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $29.62 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 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?

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.
More about Scraper Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Scraper Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of Scraper Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Scraper Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA? For Scraper Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scraper Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Scraper Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
Scraper Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scraper Operator job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,405 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Entry Level Horizontal Construction Engineer

U.S. Army

Philadelphia, PA • Remote

$24K - $30K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

United States Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 488 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

Horizontal Construction Engineer (12N)
 
Overview
Horizontal construction engineers use bulldozers, cranes, graders and other heavy equipment to move tons of earth and material to complete construction projects for the Army. 
 
 They are also responsible for operating tractors with dozer attachments, scoop loaders, backhoe loaders, hydraulic excavators, motorized graders and scrapers. 
Why the U.S. Army: 
  • Professional Growth: Engage in continued learning, training, and career advancement opportunities. 
  • Diverse Opportunities: From combat medic specialists to medical officers, choose a role that fits your passion and expertise. 
  • Community: Join a tight-knit community prioritizing camaraderie, service, and mutual support. 
 
Job Duties
  • Analyze the information on grade stakes and placing them
  • Drive bulldozers, roadgraders and other heavy equipment to level earth 
  • Clear, grub, strip, excavate, backfill, stockpile and push scraper with tractor crawler
  • Cut and spread fill material with scraper
  • Transport heavy construction equipment with tractor-trailer
  • Assist in performance of combat engineer missions

Requirements
Those who want to serve must first take the ASBAV, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.
Training
Job training for horizontal construction engineer requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and nine weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field with on-the-job instructions.
 
Some of the skills you’ll learn are:
  • Operation of different types of construction and rough terrain equipment
  • Maintenance and repair of equipment
  • Identification of soil types and placement of grade stakes

Helpful Skills
  • Interest in operating heavy construction equipment
  • Preference for working outdoors
  • Interest in working with your hands

Required ASVAB Score(s)
General Maintenance (GM): 90
Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.
Compensation
Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.
Earn Cash For In Demand Jobs
You could earn up to $40,000 in cash bonuses just for enlisting under certain Military Occupational Specialties. Visit Jobs in Demand to see if this job qualifies for an enlistment bonus.
Education Benefits
In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.
Future Civilian Careers
The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with building contractors, state highway agencies, rock quarries, well drillers and construction firms.
PARTNERSHIP FOR YOUTH SUCCESS (PaYS) Program
Those interested in this job may be eligible for civilian employment, after the Army, by enrolling in the Army PaYS program. The PaYS program is a recruitment option that guarantees a job interview with military friendly employers that are looking for experienced and trained Veterans to join their organization. Find out more about the Army PaYS Program at http://www.armypays.com.
  • AT&T, Inc.
  • Hewlett-Packard Company
  • Kraft Foods Global, Inc.
  • Sears Holdings Corporation
  • Time Customer Service, Inc.
  • Walgreen Co.

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About US Army

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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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