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Backfill Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Audubon Companies

Cathodic Protection Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

The Cathodic Protection Construction Operator/CDL supports the installation, repair, and ... Mix, place, and compact backfill materials around anodes and calling according to specifications.

Subterra Utilities

Heavy Equipment Operator

Magnolia, TX · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

... backfill, compaction, and restoration activities. * Maintain awareness of existing utilities and ... Perform equipment inspections before operating machinery. * Properly use required PPE at all times.

Vortex Companies

Heavy Machine Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Work with ground personnel to safely dig, bed, and backfill trenches. * Cut, fit, and seal ... At least 1 year of heavy equipment operating experience required * Experience with underground ...

Vortex Companies

Heavy Machine Operator *

Houston, TX · On-site

Work with ground personnel to safely dig, bed, and backfill trenches. * Cut, fit, and seal ... At least 1 year of heavy equipment operating experience required * Experience with underground ...

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All JobsBackfill Operator JobsBackfill Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Backfill Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$10

$22

$35

How much do backfill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for backfill operator in Houston, TX is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Backfill Operator vs Drilling Operator?

AspectBackfill OperatorDrilling Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, excavation areasOil & gas drilling rigs, mining sites
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, infrastructure projectsOil & gas, mineral extraction

Backfill Operators and Drilling Operators both work in industrial environments requiring safety certifications and on-the-job training. While Backfill Operators focus on filling excavations and supporting construction projects, Drilling Operators specialize in operating drilling equipment for resource extraction. Both roles are essential in their industries but differ in specific tasks and work settings.

What does backfill mean in a job?

In a backfill operator role, backfill refers to filling a position that has become vacant, often to ensure continuous workflow. This may involve replacing an employee who has left or is on leave, and requires knowledge of the job site, equipment, and safety procedures.

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Backfill Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Backfill Operator job openings:

Backfill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backfill Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% As Needed, and 87% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,772 per year, or $22 per hour.

Cathodic Protection Operator

Houston, TX • On-site

Audubon Companies
See more jobs at Audubon Companiesexternal

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Audubon is currently seeking a Cathodic Protection Operator/CDL to join our team. The Cathodic Protection Construction Operator/CDL supports the installation, repair, and maintenance of cathodic protection systems for pipelines, tanks, utilities, and industrial facilities. This role assists CP technicians and drillers with site preparation, material handling, excavation, anode installation, cable routing, backfilling, and general construction tasks. The Helper ensures safe, efficient field operations and contributes to high quality CP system installations.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assist with installation of CP components including anodes, test stations, rectifiers, ground beds, and cabling.
  • Support drilling crews by preparing materials, handling backfill (such as coke breeze) and helping with borehole installation tasks.
  • Perform manual excavation, trenching, and site preparation using hand tools and small equipment.
  • Pull, route, and secure CP cables; assist with conduit installation and cable terminations under supervision.
  • Mix, place, and compact backfill materials around anodes and calling according to specifications.
  • Load, unload, and organize tools, materials, and equipment at job sites.
  • Maintain clean, safe work areas and follow all safety procedures, including PPE use and hazard identification.
  • Assist with testing, measurements, and data collection as directed by CP technicians.
  • Operate basic construction equipment (e.g., tampers, generators, compactors) after proper training.
  • Complete daily documentation such as timesheets, material logs, and safety checklists.
  • Support mobilization and demobilization of job sites, including staging materials and secure equipment.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Education: High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Prior experience in cathodic protection, electrical work, or pipeline construction.
  • Familiarity with trenching, cable installation, or groundbed construction.
  • Basic understanding of CP components such as anodes, test stations, and rectifiers.
  • Class A Commercial Driver License
  • Experience in construction, utility work, pipeline work, or related field labor.
  • Ability to use hand tools, power tools, and small construction equipment safely.
  • Physical ability to lift 50+ lbs, work outdoors, and perform manual labor for extended periods.
  • Valid driver's license; ability to travel to project sites, including overnight stays.
  • Strong commitment to safety and adherence to company and regulatory standards.
  • Ability to follow instructions, work as part of a team, and communicate effectively.
  • Recognizes hazards and consistently follows safe work practices.
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to maintain productivity in demanding field conditions.
  • Works closely with CP technicians, drillers, and construction crews.
  • Handles changing site conditions, weather, and project priorities.
  • Ensures proper placement of materials and accurate documentation.
  • Dependable, punctual, and able to manage field tasks with minimal supervision.
  • 80% Travel required

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