Become a Heavy Equipment Operator (Dozer)
Operate a dozer to help clear areas and move rock and gravel around the site.
Heavy Equipment Dozer Operators move, spread and strip earth, rock, gravel or other materials during construction and related activities. They work in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, airports and utilities, and the construction of gas and oil pipelines, tunnels, buildings and other structures. Dozers are also used to clear brush and stumps prior to logging activities and to build roads at logging and surface mining sites..
Key Skills Needed
- Mechanical aptitude
- Hand-eye coordination
- Problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
- Situational awareness
- Safety awareness
Typical Mid-Range Hourly Rate
25
Career Outlook
Moderate - The odds of finding work in this field are considered average.
Pathways Into the Trade
- Direct Entry
Start working with a certified journeyperson and begin your apprenticeship right away - no experience needed. Most apprentices spend about 80% of their time on the job and 20% in training. - Pre-Apprenticeship
Take a program at a college or training institution to build foundational skills before starting your apprenticeship. - Trade Experience
If you already have experience – whether in Canada or internationally – you may be able to challenge the trade qualifier exam and become certified.
Working Conditions
- Work on construction, mining, forestry and pipeline projects
- Operate equipment outdoors in all weather conditions
- Spend long periods working in an enclosed equipment cab
- Work around heavy equipment, trucks and active construction zones
- Use GPS, satellite monitoring and machine control technologies
- Follow environmental, safety and operating procedures
*Profile data compiled by Labour, Skills and Immigration – AskLMI@novascotia.ca