Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
What is a dozer operator and how to become one
A dozer operator drives a bulldozer at production sites or during other types of manufacturing operations. In this job, their duties include relocating soil, rocks, and debris and surfacing the ground. They control the tractor and also operate the shovel or blade on the front of the vehicle. They run this machine to aid in constructing structures, including bridges, roads, and buildings.
Typically, to work as a dozer operator you need to possess a college degree. However, operating a dozer also requires operator skills and licenses, and working experience is preferred.
According to BLS, the operators who approach this field end up laying claim to annual earnings ranging from $23,432 to $40,080 in the United States. However, this figure can vary significantly depending upon your experience and skills.
Avg. Salary $44,340
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 5%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1.89%
Asian 0.93%
Black or African American 7.07%
Hispanic or Latino 18.07%
Unknown 4.33%
White 67.71%
Genderfemale 1.96%
male 98.04%
Age - 46American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 46Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is fair
6.4 - fair
Dozer operator career paths
Key steps to become a dozer operator
Explore dozer operator education requirements
Start to develop specific dozer operator skills
Skills Percentages Asphalt 13.10% Construction Sites 8.80% Loaders 6.59% Grade Stakes 6.31% OSHA 6.27% Complete relevant dozer operator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New dozer operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a dozer operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real dozer operator resumes.Research dozer operator duties and responsibilities
- Operate power construction equipment such as bulldozers, tractors and front-end loaders.
- Maintain CDL, CPR certification and OSHA certification.
- Have msha and osha training, first aid card.
- Operate D9, D10, D11
Prepare your dozer operator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your dozer operator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a dozer operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable dozer operator resume templates
Build a professional dozer operator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your dozer operator resume.
Apply for dozer operator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a dozer operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first dozer operator job
Are you a dozer operator?
Share your story for a free salary report.
Average dozer operator salary
The average dozer operator salary in the United States is $44,340 per year or $21 per hour. Dozer operator salaries range between $33,000 and $58,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do dozer operators rate their job?
Dozer operator reviews
Fun Of Running Modern Equipment But Antiques Are Rough On The Body
Pay Is Low For Me & No Pay Growth/Perks
Different challenges to overcome and adapt to get work done
Its what I know and I am good at it . With that said always be open to constructive criticism so you can continue to grow in this field
Young bucks that come in with no it all temperaments without the experience. They can get you hurt in this line of work. Remember everything can kill you when dealing with heavy equipment
Updated January 8, 2025
