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Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

... for Skilled Backhoe Operators. An Operator should possess a fundamental understanding of ... load materials to be used on the job • Follow all company safety policies and practices • ...

Able to operate yellow iron (backhoe, excavator, front end loader) * Minimal computer skills ... operating an excavator, backhoe and/or roll-off truck. * Previous industrial labor experience ...

Able to operate yellow iron (backhoe, excavator, front end loader) * Minimal computer skills ... operating an excavator, backhoe and/or roll-off truck. * Previous industrial labor experience ...

Equipment Operator

Dolton, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Able to operate yellow iron (backhoe, excavator, front end loader) * Minimal computer skills ... operating an excavator, backhoe and/or roll-off truck. * Previous industrial labor experience ...

Able to operate yellow iron (backhoe, excavator, front end loader) * Minimal computer skills ... operating an excavator, backhoe and/or roll-off truck. * Previous industrial labor experience ...

Forklift Operator

South Beloit, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Load and unload equipment from vehicles and * Ensure company equipment, material, and the work site ... Road grader, water truck, dump truck, backhoe, flatbed, excavator, forklift where needed know ...

We are looking for a team of Operators to join our team to support the Mechanical Scope of our ... Loader * Scraper * Roller * Backhoe * Excavator Skills/Abilities: * Follow prescribed safety ...

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ...

We are looking for a team of Operators to join our team to support the Mechanical Scope of our ... Loader * Scraper * Roller * Backhoe * Excavator Skills/Abilities: * Follow prescribed safety ...

... loader, vactor, snow plow, wing plow, semi-tractor/trailer, tractor, sweeper, and backhoe) for ... operating heavy equipment A valid Class A or B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with an air brakes ...

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

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Showing results 1-20

Backhoe Loader Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$32K

$55.2K

$85.3K

How much do backhoe loader operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe loader operator in Illinois is $55,188.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $59,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backhoe loader operator?

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 does a backhoe loader operator do?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backhoe loader operator?

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 Illinois?

The most popular types of Backhoe Loader Operator jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Backhoe Loader Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,188 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Heavy Equipment / Backhoe Operator

MP Nexlevel

Pontiac, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


MP Nexlevel rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

MP Nexlevel, LLC, a leader in the utilities construction industry, is looking for Skilled Backhoe Operators. An Operator should possess a fundamental understanding of construction and be able to operate different construction equipment and tools including skid steers, excavators, and backhoes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
· Ability to operate a certain piece of equipment
· Grease, oil and do daily maintenance of equipment
· Hand dig around existing utilities when necessary
· Trained to operate tampers, jackhammers, drills, and saws
· Carry and load materials to be used on the job
· Follow all company safety policies and practices
· Report any equipment repairs needed to Foreman or Supervisor
· Light repair and maintenance of tools and equipment
· Assist in hauling equipment to and from job site
· Clean up and restore work area
· Wash and clean vehicles and equipment
· Safety training as required by position
· Paperwork filing and maintenance as needed
· Other duties as assigned

Essential Education and Qualifications:
· Good verbal communication skills
· Must have valid CDL

· 3-5 years experience in the underground utilities construction industry
· Valid DOT Health Card

Physical Demands:
· Must be physically fit to endure the daily activity involved with the job
· Must be able to work in all weather conditions
· Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds

Benefits offered to eligible employees include medical, dental, vision, and supplemental life insurance, along with Paid Time Off, paid Holidays, traditional and ROTH 401(k) options with company match, employee stock purchase plan, education assistance program, employee assistance program, training and development opportunities, Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program, and a Commercial Driver’s License obtainment program.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

All offers of employment are expressly contingent upon the satisfactory completion, in accordance with Company policy, of a pre-employment drug screening and may be subject to a background check.


What MP Nexlevel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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MP NEXLEVEL logo

About MP NEXLEVEL

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MP is a nationally recognized full service utility contracting company that was founded in 1973. It started by offering excavation services locally in Minnesota. Today, MP offers turnkey services to a wide range of markets throughout the United States, with permanent offices in Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Texas, California, and Arizona. MP Nexlevel takes pride in delivering quality work on time and within budget. We strive to exceed our customer’s expectations with every project. No matter the continued growth of the company, MP values each and every one of its employees, giving the company more of a family feel, making us strong, viable, and successful.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Maple Lake, MN, US

Year founded

1973

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