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Backhoe Loader Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$20.72 - $25.87/hr

Operate and train staff on construction equipment such as backhoe loaders, industrial box blade/loaders, skid steer loaders, utility wheel loaders, compactors, rotary mixers and tractors with 30 ...

Operate equipment effectively such as bulldozers, trackhoe, backhoe, loader, skid steer, roller etc. Supervise and lead crew. Manage and oversee job site and subcontractors. Responsibilities:

$20.91 - $27.55/hr

Medium Complexity trailers, rollers, ten wheelers, tank trailer, bobtail, backhoe, loader, rollers, snowplows, etc. * Responsible to transport signs and barricade equipment to and from job sites.

$26.81/hr

Medium Complexity trailers, rollers, ten wheelers, tank trailer, bobtail, backhoe, loader, rollers, snowplows, etc. * Responsible to transport signs and barricade equipment to and from job sites.

$26.81/hr

Medium Complexity trailers, rollers, ten wheelers, tank trailer, bobtail, backhoe, loader, rollers, snowplows, etc. * Responsible to transport signs and barricade equipment to and from job sites.

Showing results 21-40

Backhoe Loader information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$56.5K

$87.2K

How much do backhoe loader jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe loader in Virginia is $56,463.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $61,000.00 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Infographic showing various Backhoe Loader job openings in Virginia 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 $56,463 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I (BACKHOE)

City of Alexandria

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$43K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

450th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I (BACKHOE) Overview An Equipment Operator I in the Sewers Department operates several types of automotive equipment and performs a variety of manual tasks in support of Federal MS4 stormwater permit activities and Best Management Practice (BMP)maintenance. This position will also be responsiblefor operating a backhoe to excavate trenches and backfill and perform fine grading, along with operating other related equipment to assist in the construction and/or maintenance of seasonal public works projects. In addition, this position is critical to the support of emergencies and special events, such as flooding and snow events.

Crew members work in all types of weather conditions, performing tasks related to the maintenance, replacement, repair, inspection and new installation of various storm, sanitary sewer, and streets infrastructure. May be required to work hours other than the standard day shift should an emergency arise, work rotating standby/on-call shifts. Opportunity We are interested in motivated, dedicated, and skilled Equipment Operators who enjoy working in a team environment committed to providing excellent customer service to internal and external customers.

Stormwater and Sewer Construction/Maintenance Skillfully operate equipment like backhoes, loaders, skid steers, sweepers, dump trucks, snowplows, and rollers. Perform basic maintenance and cleaning of storm sewer inlets, pipes and BMP's. Drive and operate flusher truck and/or vactor truck to maintain storm sewer mains.

Build, repair, and maintain city infrastructure, streets, drainage systems, and rights-of-way. Excavate trenches, install and repair pipes, culverts, and storm drains. Handle grading, hauling, and spreading materials such as gravel, asphalt, and soil.

Keep your equipment in top condition with daily inspections and light maintenance. Set up safe work zones with proper cones, signs, and traffic control. Step in during emergencies, storms, flooding, and be part of the rapid-response team.

Responds to citizens' inquiries regarding Public Works Services. Operates a snowplow with a salt spreader, also shovels snow when not operating heavy trucks. Performs related work as required.

Equipment Operators are required to: Use a computer, related software, or work order system to enter data for work orders, completion of work, and customer complaint documentation. Perform daily written and verbal team/customer interaction including responding to onsite resident inquiries. Respond to emergencies including call-back and mandatory overtime as needed (i.e., snow removal operations, flooding, other emergencies)

Responds to citizen inquiries via phone and e-mail. About the Department T&ES is a community partner in shaping a livable, green, and prospering Alexandria. We plan, build, manage and maintain transportation systems and environmental infrastructure that improve mobility and provide people and businesses with core public services.

The work we do keeps Alexandrians moving, growing sustainability, and thriving. We are a vibrant, diverse department that plays a major role in how the City operates day-to-day as well as how it will look in the future. If you are curious for a broader view of our City, click City of Alexandria to learn more.

Minimum & Additional Requirements The ideal candidate To qualify for this position, all candidates must possess a High School Diploma or GED; one (1) year of experience in the operation of maintenance and/or construction equipment; good knowledge of departmental operations and procedures; some vocational training as related to construction/maintenance field; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Ability to perform heavy manual labor in all types of weather; must have a valid Commercial Driver's license. Preferred Qualifications The preferred candidate Five (5) years of experience in the operation of maintenance and/or construction equipment including backhoe operation; three (3)years of experience in public works, construction, or another trades vocation that demonstrates theability to perform semi-skilled to skilled manual maintenance and/or construction and a valid Class A or B Commercial Driver's license (CDL) with tanker endorsement.

The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.


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