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Backhoe Loader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

DSP Constructors

Operator

Novi, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION An Equipment Operator is responsible for operating machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, crawler and wheeled tractors with dozer attachments, scoop loaders, backhoe loaders ...

Rain Or Drain

Heavy Equipment Operator

Coloma, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Must be able to operate multiple peices of equipment , excavator, wheel loader, backhoe, and dozer to mention a few. Should have a driver license. Experience in water main and sewer installation and ...

Rolar Property Services Inc.

Be Seen First

Dump Truck Driver - Class A CDL

Warren, MI · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

Knowledge of how to operate heavy equipment a big plus (loader, excavator, backhoe) Pay rate starts at $27.00 per hour with the opportunity to earn $40+ per hour on prevailing wage jobs.

Rolar Property Services Inc.

Be Seen First

Dump Truck Driver - Class A CDL

Warren, MI · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

Knowledge of how to operate heavy equipment a big plus (loader, excavator, backhoe) Pay rate starts at $27.00 per hour with the opportunity to earn $40+ per hour on prevailing wage jobs.

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All JobsBackhoe Loader JobsBackhoe Loader Jobs in Michigan

Backhoe Loader information

See Michigan salary details

$28.8K

$49.6K

$76.7K

How much do backhoe loader jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe loader in Michigan is $49,639.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $53,600.00 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 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 are popular job titles related to Backhoe Loader jobs in Michigan? For Backhoe Loader jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Loader jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Loader jobs in Michigan are:
Backhoe Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Loader job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,639 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator (Part Time)

Heavy Equipment Operator (Part Time)

Lee Industrial Contracting

Midland, MI • On-site

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1989, Lee Industrial Contracting is a 100% employee-owned company based in Pontiac, Michigan. We are the premier industrial contractor of choice for a broad variety of equipment installation, construction, and service projects. As employee-owners, we all strive to demonstrate the core values of Safety, Teamwork, Integrity, and Dedication each and every day. As a team, our mission is to provide our customers with the finest people, material, and equipment available. We encourage anyone who shares our values to apply today!
Responsibilities:
  • Operate heavy machinery, including but not limited to excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, and backhoes, to perform construction tasks such as digging, grading, and material handling.
  • Prepare construction sites by clearing debris, grading terrain, and moving materials to designated areas according to project plans and specifications.
  • Perform routine maintenance checks and minor repairs on equipment to ensure optimal performance and prevent breakdowns. Report any major mechanical issues to the maintenance team.
  • Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols while operating machinery. Conduct pre-operation safety inspections and ensure that safety equipment is used correctly.
  • Work closely with other construction team members, including site supervisors, laborers, and engineers, to ensure smooth and efficient project execution.
  • Load, unload, and transport materials using heavy machinery. Ensure materials are handled and placed accurately to meet project requirements.
  • Daily maintenance of equipment - inspection & minor maintenance, lubrication, fueling, and reporting of service needs.
  • Identify and address any operational or site-related challenges promptly. Adjust equipment operations as needed to accommodate changing conditions.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to interact with crew, leadership, and customers.

Requirements:
  • 5+ years heavy equipment operation in underground construction experience.
  • Basic math and geometry to determine area, elevation, and pitch for excavation plans.
  • Competent in soil analysis - recognizing ground conditions.
  • Experienced in trenching and excavating - shoring, sloping and shielding.
  • Knowledge of the procedure of removal and installation of underground utilities and line openings.
  • Basic equipment inspection and maintenance.
  • Ability to work effectively with all personality types
  • Ability to understand and carry out verbal and written instructions
  • Self-directed and can work independently
  • Valid driver's license - Chauffeurs preferred

Preferred Requirements:
  • CDL-A license & DOT Med card
  • Knowledge of the procedure of removal and installation of underground utilities and line openings.

Equipment & Tool experience:
  • Basic operation of trucks & equipment, including utilize pick-up to pull a trailer
  • Trailer loading and securing of material & equipment
  • Forklift Operation - Material Handling up to 10,000lbs.
  • Aerial -lift operation - boom lift preferred
  • Aerial -lift operation - scissor lift preferred
  • Telehandler operation experience preferred
  • Skid steer - demo, grading, material handling
  • Roller operation
  • Bulldozer - basic operation and rough grading required, proficient with fine grading preferred
  • Proficient with backhoe, loader and excavator
  • Mobile crane certified & qualified (NCCER/NCCCO) preferred
  • Basic power hand tools
  • Laser level

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to ascend and descend ladders, scaffolds, stairs and work in confined spaces and in proximity to loud equipment.
  • Must be able to position one-self to work in confined spaces such as trenches, pits, manholes, attics and tunnels.
  • Must be able to lift and carry or otherwise move up to 50 pounds regularly/occasionally
  • Must be able to respond quickly to auditory alarms, visual signals, or other effective means to communicate hazards
  • Must be able to move safely over uneven terrain or in confined spaces.
  • Must be able to work in cold/hot environments.
  • Must be able to traverse irregular and steep terrain.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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