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Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$23.45 - $28.60/hr

Position Description General Summary An equipment operator operates a variety of equipment including; tractor, scraper, forklift, bobcat, backhoe, excavator, frontend loader, side boom, semi-tractor ...

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Backhoe Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Loader Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Backhoe Loader Operator jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Loader Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Loader Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Backhoe Loader Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Backhoe Loader Operator job openings:
Excavator Operator

$17 - $24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Roto-Rooter rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 218 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview
Excavator Operator
Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.
If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.
We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator, especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements at our East Bay branch, located in Livermore, CA. The average earnings for this position are between $75,000-$100,000, depending on experience.
Responsibilities
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job sites.
  • Load, unload and secure equipment on transport trailers according to guidelines.
  • Follow OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with a crew to efficiently complete excavation work on various projects.
  • Interact with customers as needed, providing excellent customer service and addressing their requirements professionally.
  • Maintain excavation equipment and gather all necessary equipment from the branch and/or rental companies to ensure smooth operations during excavation tasks.
  • Perform excavation work in confined spaces and open trenches, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Locate and arrive at job sites promptly, ensuring safe driving and operation of service vehicles between locations.

Requirements
  • Essential requirement: Construction experience in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Mandatory requirement: Possession of a current CDL Class A license for this position.
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, as required for the role.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines.

Service technicians are paid an hourly rate of $17.00 to $24.00 during training. After training, they are paid an hourly rate at or above the minimum wage for all hours worked. The hourly pay rate may vary, depending on whether the pay is for base pay paid at the employee's base hourly rate (minimum wage), or administrative pay for administrative hours worked (between minimum wage and $77.92) . Service technicians also have the potential to earn commissions at the rate of 16-22% of revenue depending on the revenue category. Commissions ranging from $10 to $139 can also be earned for selling products and treatments.
Benefits
At Roto-Rooter we believe our greatest investment is in our employees. We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That's why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:
  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout our 86 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are a great fit at our company.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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