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Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Clean Harbors

IS Equipment Operator

San Ardo, CA · On-site

$17.14 - $39.81/hr

Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments * Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services ...

Clean Harbors

IS Equipment Operator

San Ardo, CA

Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments * Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services ...

Clean Harbors

IS Equipment Operator

San Ardo, CA · On-site

Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments * Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services ...

CleanHarbors

IS Equipment Operator

San Ardo, CA

Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments * Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services ...

City of Redlands

Equipment Operator OIT/I/II

Redlands, CA · On-site

$43K - $64K/yr

... backhoe or differ derrick; Operates grader to grade landfill haul roads and tipping pads; Pushes ... Operates skip loader and sorts waste for diversion in the load consolidation area; Identifies ...

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Backhoe Loader Operator information

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$32.6K

$56.2K

$86.8K

How much do backhoe loader operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe loader operator in California is $56,206.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $60,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for a Backhoe Loader Operator?

A typical day for a Backhoe Loader Operator involves inspecting and maintaining equipment, reviewing site plans or work orders, and safely operating the machine to perform digging, trenching, and material loading tasks. Operators frequently collaborate with site supervisors, project managers, and other equipment operators to coordinate activities and maintain workflow. Safety is always a priority, requiring ongoing awareness of surroundings and adherence to all protocols. The work can be physically demanding and requires adaptability to changing weather and site conditions, making teamwork and strong communication essential for smooth project completion.

What is a Backhoe Loader Operator job?

A Backhoe Loader Operator is responsible for operating a backhoe loader to excavate, move, and load materials on construction sites. They ensure efficient and safe handling of soil, gravel, and debris while following project specifications. Operators must inspect equipment, perform basic maintenance, and follow safety regulations to prevent accidents. This role requires strong hand-eye coordination, mechanical knowledge, and experience handling heavy machinery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Backhoe Loader Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backhoe Loader Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and experience with heavy equipment, often demonstrated by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant operator certification. Familiarity with excavation tools, safety protocols, and modern machine controls or GPS systems is typically required. Attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are valuable soft skills. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, precise operations and efficient teamwork on construction sites.

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Backhoe Loader Operator jobs near you
IS Equipment Operator

IS Equipment Operator

Clean Harbors

San Ardo, CA • On-site

$17.14 - $39.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Clean Harbors rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 71 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Job Description
HPC-Industrial, powered by Clean Harbors, is looking for an Equipment Operator to join their HPC-Industrial, powered by Clean Harbors, is seeking an Equipment Operator to join our safety-focused team. This role is responsible for executing field operations related to well abandonment, including excavation, wellhead cut and cap, site demolition, and restoration activities.
The Equipment Operator will safely operate heavy equipment and specialized tools to support well site preparation and closure, while ensuring compliance with all company, customer, and regulatory requirements. This position plays a key role in maintaining strong customer relationships and delivering high-quality, incident-free operations.
Transitioning Military candidates are encouraged to apply-this is a great opportunity to apply your skills in a hands-on, field-based environment.
Why work for HPC-Industrial?
  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5!

  • Competitive wages

  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment

  • Group 401K with company matching component

  • Own part of Clean Harbors with our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (U.S. Only)

  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement

  • Positive and safe work environments

  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career

Responsibilities
  • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, backhoes, loaders, and support equipment for well site preparation and restoration

  • Perform wellhead excavation, exposure, and site clearing in preparation for abandonment

  • Assist with or support wellhead cut and cap operations, including working around Ultra High Pressure (UHP) water jet cutting systems

  • Conduct concrete demolition, flowline removal, and site cleanup activities

  • Restore locations to natural grade, including backfilling, grading, and contouring

  • Follow all safety protocols, including LOTO, zero energy verification, and exclusion zones

  • Act as a safety leader in the field, ensuring compliance with company and customer safety standards

  • Perform pre- and post-trip inspections, equipment checks, and routine maintenance
    • Support operations involving vacuum trucks, hydroblasting equipment, and fluid handling systems
    • Load/unload materials, tools, and equipment as needed
    • Work closely with crews, supervisors, and customers to ensure efficient project execution
    • Complete required documentation, logs, and reports
    • Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments

  • Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services preferred

  • Knowledge of safe excavation practices and underground utility awareness

  • Familiarity with UHP water blasting or cutting equipment is a plus

  • Valid driver's license required; CDL Class A or B preferred

  • Ability to pass company driving requirements when operating company vehicles

  • Understanding of basic mechanical maintenance and equipment inspections

  • Ability to work in outdoor environments and perform physically demanding tasks

  • Strong commitment to safety and teamwork

  • Ability to understand and follow safety instructions in English

40-years of sustainability in action. At Clean Harbors, our mission is to create a safer, cleaner environment through the treatment, recycling, and disposal of hazardous materials. Clean Harbors is the leading provider of environmental, energy and industrial services throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Everywhere industry meets environment, Clean Harbors is on-site, providing premier environmental, energy and industrial services. We are solving tough problems through innovation and proven methodology - come be part of the solution with us.
Join our safety focused team today! To learn more about our company, and to apply online for this exciting opportunity, visit us at https://careers.cleanharbors.com/.
Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.
Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.
Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.
Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.
Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.
*HPC

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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US

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