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Backhoe Loader Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Backhoe Operator

Clearwater, FL ยท On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Additionally, the backhoe operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and ... Load and unloading of small equipment. * Read grade stakes. * Cut grade. * Excavation for ...

Backhoe Operator

Clearwater, FL ยท On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Additionally, the backhoe operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and ... Load and unloading of small equipment. * Read grade stakes. * Cut grade. * Excavation for ...

Backhoe Operator I

Mulberry, FL ยท On-site

$40K - $53K/yr

Backhoe Operator American Track, a North American Rail Solutions company, is seeking a skilled ... Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth and move, load or unload material * Install ...

Loader Operator

Wildwood, FL ยท On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Loader/Backhoe Operator Hughes Brothers Construction is now hiring! We are a heavy civil contractor specializing in large site infrastructure, underground utilities and roadway construction ...

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Showing results 1-20

Backhoe Loader information

See Florida salary details

$24.7K

$42.6K

$65.8K

How much do backhoe loader jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe loader in Florida is $42,560.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,700.00 and $46,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do I need a license to operate a backhoe?

Yes, operating a backhoe loader typically requires a valid operator's license or certification, which varies by state or country. Employers often prefer or require operators to complete training and obtain certification in heavy equipment operation. Additionally, adherence to safety standards and proper knowledge of controls are essential for safe operation.

What is a backhoe loader?

A backhoe loader is a versatile piece of heavy equipment commonly used in construction and excavation projects. It features a tractor-like body with a front-mounted loading bucket and a rear-mounted backhoe for digging. Operators use backhoe loaders for tasks such as trenching, material handling, landscaping, and demolition. Their compact size and multifunctionality make them ideal for small to medium-sized jobs where space or equipment variety is limited.

How much money can I make with a backhoe?

Backhoe loader operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Annual salaries can range from approximately $30,000 to $70,000, with higher wages often available for skilled operators with certifications and specialized training.

What jobs can you do with a backhoe?

A backhoe loader is used in construction, excavation, landscaping, and utility work. It can dig trenches, holes, and foundations, move materials, and perform demolition tasks. Operators should have proper training and certification to safely handle the equipment in various job sites.

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

To thrive as a Backhoe Loader Operator, you need expertise in heavy equipment operation, site safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, with valid equipment operator certifications. Familiarity with GPS systems, hydraulic controls, and routine equipment maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong coordination, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for operating safely and efficiently on construction sites. These skills are vital to ensure safe operations, project efficiency, and the prevention of costly accidents or delays.

What are some common challenges faced by Backhoe Loader operators on construction sites?

Backhoe Loader operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or uneven spaces, coordinating with other heavy machinery, and adapting to varying soil conditions that can affect stability and efficiency. Effective communication with site supervisors and fellow operators is key to ensuring safety and meeting project deadlines. Additionally, operators must stay alert to potential hazards and maintain their equipment to minimize downtime and prevent accidents.

What is the difference between Backhoe Loader vs Excavator?

FeatureBackhoe LoaderExcavator
Primary UseVersatile for digging, loading, and material handlingHeavy-duty digging and trenching
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, urban projectsLarge-scale excavation sites
Required CertificationsOperator license, safety trainingOperator license, safety training
Size & MobilityCompact, easily transportedLarger, less mobile

Backhoe loaders are versatile machines suitable for various tasks on construction sites, combining a loader and backhoe in one unit. Excavators are specialized for heavy-duty digging and trenching, often used in large-scale projects. While both require operator certification and are common in construction, backhoe loaders are more adaptable for smaller or mixed tasks, whereas excavators excel in deep digging and heavy lifting.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Backhoe Loader jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Backhoe Loader job openings:
Infographic showing various Backhoe Loader job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,560 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Backhoe Operator

Backhoe Operator

Hubbard Construction

Clearwater, FL โ€ข On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

100+ Years of Experience at Work for You!
Since 1920, the professional men and women of Hubbard Construction have literally paved the way for hundreds of public and private projects that have supported Florida's rise to prominence.
Hubbard is one of Florida's largest heavy civil construction companies. We are proud to be a part of Florida's history and we are eager to continue to serve the Florida market and beyond.
The scope of Hubbard's work includes complex highway projects, site development, paving, utility and drainage systems, surveying, RAP and hot mix sales, and state-of-the-art bridge building. We provide multiple delivery systems in design-build, bid-build, public/private-partnerships and design-build finance.
Hubbard Construction's parent company, Vinci, operates through a network of 330 agencies and 770 production sites, in 17 countries around the world.
General Description. Responsible for digging trenches and holes. This includes opening and closing the bucket, raising and lowering the boom, and digging, lifting and dumping dirt. Additionally, the backhoe operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and backward and how to use the stabilizers to prevent machine movement while digging.
Key Duties.

  • Able to operate the excavator and backhoe on road building and heavy construction projects.
  • Able to operations for road bed preparation, utilities trenching, excavations, pipeline, land clearing and demolition.
  • Able to operate a excavators with variety of attachments.
  • Capable of performing duties such as earthmoving.
  • Able to lift in close proximity to other people, equipment and utilities.
  • Able to work on sites and on all types of terrain.
  • Implementation of production goals.
  • Safe operation of Equipment.
  • OSHA trenching requirements.
  • Knowledge of the Clear Zone.
  • Grade and survey layout.
  • Working and installing trench boxes and steel plates.
  • Proper pre-start, shutdown and daily maintenance including cleaning machine.
  • Loading trucks.
  • Load and unloading of small equipment.
  • Read grade stakes.
  • Cut grade.
  • Excavation for structures and footings.
  • Fine grade slopes and contours suitable for sod.
  • Other duties as assigned.
General. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each Key Duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience. This position typically is not an entry-level job.
  • Requires demonstrable previous experience as a Backhoe Operator.
  • A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred.
  • Must be able to understand work directions and communicate effectively with job site supervisors and fellow employees.
  • Three (3) to Five (5) years or more of industry related experience is required for this position, with an emphasis on roads, highways, and bridges.
Physical Demands. The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by a Backhoe Operator to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Constant physical effort, including standing and sitting is required during a regular work shift of at least eight hours per day. Employee must be able to stand and sit for extended periods of time, and to stoop, bend, and crouch as required to perform Key Duties.
  • Frequently walk and climb on uneven surfaces of heavy equipment.
  • Ability to lift, on a frequent basis, at least 50 pounds and carry at least 30 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance.
  • Manual dexterity to operate hand tools.
  • Maintain constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment.
  • The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely.
Work Environment. The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those that a Backhoe Operator encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
  • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Work environment periodically exposes the employees to high levels of noise, grease, and dust that is typically associated with road construction..
  • Employee regularly works near heavy equipment and moving machinery.
  • Work may involve a variety of substances commonly found on construction sites such as form oil, grease, gasoline, diesel fuel and asphalt concentrate at hot temperatures.
Company Benefits.
  • Company Paid Basic Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long Term Disability Policy
  • Company Paid Vacation & Holiday Pay
  • Company Paid Parental Leave
  • Company Paid Maternity Leave
  • Company Paid Employee/Family Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Voluntary Medical & Vision Insurance
  • Voluntary Dental Insurance
  • Voluntary Short Term Disability
  • Voluntary Supplemental Term Life
  • Voluntary Accident, Legal, Hospital, Critical Illness Policies
  • 401(k) Plan w/Employer Match
  • Annual Company Stock Purchase Opportunities
  • Discount Partnerships: Verizon, Ford, Perkspot
  • Health and Wellness Benefits, including Monthly Gym/Fitness Incentives

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. We promote a Drug-Free Workplace.
Blythe Construction, Inc. - Hubbard Construction Company - Northeast Paving - Sunmount Paving - Virginia Paving Company, are hereby referred to as VINCI CONSTRUCTION USAAccessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources atBlythe Construction, Inc.: Phone: 704-375-8474Hubbard Construction Company: Phone: 407-645-5500Eurovia Atlantic Coast, LLC:Phone: 704-375-8474
VINCI CONSTRUCTION USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.VINCI CONSTRUCTION USA is committed to providing a fair and equal employment opportunity workplace. All hiring and promotional decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status that is protected by federal, state, or local law.
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