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Backhoe Loader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

BrightView

Enhancement Crew Leader (Portage)

Portage, MI · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Experience running equipment (skid steer, excavator, backhoe, etc.) * Able to read architectural ... Ability to load/unload burlaps with plant cuttings onto trailer (up to 50 lbs.) * Ability to bend ...

BrightView

Enhancement Crew Leader (Portage)

Portage, MI · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Experience running equipment (skid steer, excavator, backhoe, etc.) * Able to read architectural ... Ability to load/unload burlaps with plant cuttings onto trailer (up to 50 lbs.) * Ability to bend ...

BrightView

Enhancement Crew Leader (Portage)

Portage, MI · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

... backhoe, etc.) + Able to read architectural drawings + Strong leadership skills + Able to work well ... to load/unload burlaps with plant cuttings onto trailer (up to 50 lbs.) + Ability to bend, stoop ...

City of Holland, MI

Heavy Equipment Operator

Holland, MI · On-site

$27.35 - $32.83/hr

Operates a loader, dump truck, backhoe, sweeper, skidsteer, vactor and othertypes of heavy equipment to construct, repair and maintain City infrastructure. 2.Drives heavy duty trucks to haul sand ...

Bricco Excavating

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utility Experience

Detroit, MI · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

... • Backhoe • Hoe Pack • Concrete Breaking • Loaders • Skid Steers • Underground utility excavation • Finish Grading Responsibilities • Perform excavation work for watermain, sewer ...

Bricco Excavating

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utility Experience

Oak Park, MI · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

... • Backhoe • Hoe Pack • Concrete Breaking • Loaders • Skid Steers • Underground utility excavation • Finish Grading Responsibilities • Perform excavation work for watermain, sewer ...

City of Battle Creek, MI

Streets Equipment Operator

MI · On-site

$24.35/hr

Operates a truck to haul asphalt, crushed stone, sand, salt, brick, leaves, tools, or other materials and equipment; operates a backhoe, snowplow, tractor mower, front-end loader, and other types of ...

MAINSCAPE INC

Landscape Crew Leader

Midland, MI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... loader, backhoe, etc. Knowledge of safe driving techniques in snow and ice conditions Knowledge of appropriate clothing for the weather conditions that he/she will be exposed to for long periods of ...

Mainscape

Landscape Crew Leader

Midland, MI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... loader, backhoe, etc. • Knowledge of safe driving techniques in snow and ice conditions • Knowledge of appropriate clothing for the weather conditions that he/she will be exposed to for long ...

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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 Jul 4, 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.

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 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 83% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,639 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Enhancement Crew Leader (Portage)

Enhancement Crew Leader (Portage)

BrightView Landscapes

Portage, MI

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

BrightView Landscapes rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 32 rated gardening and landscaping

Job description

Description

The Best Teams are Created and Maintained Here.

STARTING PAY RANGE for this role IS $18 - $21 PER HOUR AND COULD INCREASE FROM THERE DEPENDENT UPON PREVIOUS WORK EXPERIENCE AND ANY CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES YOU HOLD.

Job Summary

  • The Crew Leader Enhancement oversees landscape enhancement and maintenance of a crew of 2 or more team members, providing hands-on leadership in landscape enhancement and maintenance, including soil, planting, watering, and insect control.  This role ensures that client standards are consistently met, while identifying and implementing operational efficiencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conduct site inspections and provide hands-on leadership/ guidance for soil, planting, watering, and insect control
  • Ensure that client standards are met while maintaining operational efficiencies
  • Drive and maintain vehicles, train crew members with strong emphasis on safety, manage schedules, and review charts and reports.

Education and Experience:

  • 2+ years of landscape install experience
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in lawn care and landscaping; supervisory experience desired.
  • Minimum 1 year experience managing a 2+ person crew
  • Commercial Driver's license (CDL) with a good record
  • Familiarity with landscaping techniques and equipment
  • Experience running equipment (skid steer, excavator, backhoe, etc.)
  • Able to read architectural drawings
  • Strong leadership skills
  • Able to work well with others
  • Reliable transportation

Physical Demands/Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and carry 40 lbs. (mulch, fertilizer, etc.)
  • Ability to load/unload burlaps with plant cuttings onto trailer (up to 50 lbs.)
  • Ability to bend, stoop, and twist continuously throughout the day 

Work Environment:

  • Work in/or about situations near direct automotive traffic
  • Work near or about natural bodies of water
  • Ability to work in extreme conditions – temperatures may exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Ability to work in direct sunlight for extended periods of time
BrightView Landscapes, LLC is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.
This job description is subject to change at any time.

BrightView offers a suite or health, wellness, and financial benefits to full-time team members. Benefits offerings for full-time team members include medical, dental, and vision insurance, ancillary and voluntary products, a 401k savings plan with employer contributions, and 6 to 9 company paid holidays per year. Employees may also be eligible to receive paid time off for vacation and/or sick leave, tuition reimbursement, and/or potential variable pay opportunities based on position and performance. A detailed benefits package will be provided during the interview process.

It’s Not Just a Team. It’s One BrightView.

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