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Backhoe Loader Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Backhoe Operator Build your career with an innovative and sustainable railroad maintenance and ... Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth and move, load or unload material * Install ...

Backhoe Operator I

Mulberry, FL · 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 ...

Backhoe Operator

Clearwater, FL · 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 ...

Gardener III

Lake Wales, FL

$19.29 - $26.70/hr

Operates light and mediumsized construction and power equipment, such as a tractor or backhoe/loader. Insures the proper maintenance of equipment/tools by cleaning and checking equipment/tools after ...

Gardener III

Lake Wales, FL · On-site

$19.29 - $26.70/hr

Operates light and medium-sized construction and power equipment, such as a tractor or backhoe/loader. Insures the proper maintenance of equipment/tools by cleaning and checking equipment/tools after ...

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I

Hollywood, FL · On-site

$42K - $63K/yr

Essential Functions Operates a backhoe, loader, grader, cement mixer, grinder, bulldozer, etc., in the construction, maintenance and repair of municipal systems and related infrastructure. Utilizes ...

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Backhoe Loader information

See Florida salary details

$24.7K

$42.6K

$65.8K

How much do backhoe loader jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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.

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.

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 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 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.

How much does a backhoe loader operator make?

Backhoe loader operators in Florida typically earn an average hourly wage of around $18 to $25, which translates to approximately $37,000 to $52,000 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they handle.

How much money can I make with a backhoe loader?

Backhoe loader operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Annual salaries generally range from $30,000 to $70,000, with higher wages for skilled operators or those with certifications. Wages can also vary based on the complexity of the projects and the work environment.

Is there demand for backhoe loaders?

Backhoe loader operators are in steady demand in construction, agriculture, and infrastructure projects due to ongoing development and maintenance needs. Skills in equipment operation and safety certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,560 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Backhoe Operator

American Track

Mulberry, FL

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Backhoe Operator
Build your career with an innovative and sustainable railroad maintenance and construction team! Our company is rapidly growing, and we have plenty of opportunities available for accelerated advancement. We believe that having happy and healthy employees is key to our success, and we offer a wide range of competitive benefits to help our team manage their physical and financial wellness. If you're looking to grow in a hands-on and collaborative environment with one of the most experienced and fastest growing companies in the industry, we'd love to hear from you. Start your adventure building America’s infrastructure today!
We recognize that earthwork is a vital part of almost all railroad construction projects, and our Backhoe Operators are at the heart of our operations. The Backhoe Operator is an hourly-rated skilled craft position that works on construction and maintenance projects. The individual who fills this position will also be trained on and operate specialty railroad machinery that includes a Tamper machine and Ballast Regulator. The applicant is being hired with the intent of working as a Backhoe Operator as well as an operator of our on-track machines. Some travel/weekend work should be expected.
You can earn $20.00+ (depending on experience).   Overtime opportunities available.  
What You'll Do:
  • Set up and operate heavy construction equipment in a safe manner
  • Keep equipment clean and perform required maintenance
  • Proper pre-start and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation
  • Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth and move, load or unload material
  • Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand/audio signals from crew members
  • Signal directions to coworkers
  • Study instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements
  • Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work
  • Grade plan requirements and set grade standards
  • Lead a crew, delegate work within work scope, and assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed basis
  • Understand production and quantity requirements and make decisions based on verifiable standards
  • Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts including operating on-track machinery
  • Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine
Why You'll Love Working for Us:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Coverage
  • PTO and Holidays
  • Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Short Term Disability Insurance
  • 401K
What We Need from You:
  • At least one year of previous experience operating a backhoe in a railroad construction environment - REQUIRED
  • Pre-employment background check and drug screen required
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) preferred
  • Understand work directions and communicate effectively with Superintendents and fellow employees
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time; stoop, bend, and crouch; lift and carry at least 50 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance; frequently work with hands extended overhead, sometimes in conjunction with the use of hand power tools; climb on/off heavy mobile equipment safely; walk on uneven surfaces, including natural ground, in varying weather
  • Maintain constant alertness to the multiple activities of the construction site, including activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions (including very hot and very cold weather), near heavy equipment and moving machinery, and with periodic exposure to high levels of noise, grease, and dust
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this job.