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Backhoe Loader Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Utility Worker

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Operate dump truck, pickup truck, service truck, flushing truck, loaders/backhoe, and load and unload dirt, gravel, and other materials as required. Operate riding and push mowers, cut and trim grass ...

$21.33/hr

... such as backhoe, loaders, rubber tire and steel wheel rollers, crack sealing machines and distributors used in the construction, repair and maintenance of roads and bridges by performing the ...

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font-end loader, motor grader, cherry picker, dump truck, etc. RESPONSIBILITIES - Sets up and operates ...

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font-end loader, motor grader, cherry picker, dump truck, etc. RESPONSIBILITIES - Sets up and operates ...

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font-end loader, motor grader, cherry picker, dump truck, etc. RESPONSIBILITIES - Sets up and operates ...

Equip Ops Light - Forklift

Richmond, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font-end loader, motor grader, cherry picker, dump truck, etc. RESPONSIBILITIES - Sets up and operates ...

May operate all or some of the following types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, front-end loader, motor grader, cherry picker, dump truck, etc. Responsibilities - Sets up and ...

Showing results 41-60

Backhoe Loader information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$56.5K

$87.2K

How much do backhoe loader jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 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.

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 industry. Annual salaries generally range from $30,000 to $70,000, with higher wages for skilled operators or those with certifications. Factors such as overtime, union membership, and employer size can also influence earnings.

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.
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.

E1096 - Operator Emergency CDL Wage

Virginia Department of Transportation

Marion, VA • On-site

$18.97 - $50.30/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist and support operations for snow and ice removal from roadways, including applying abrasives and chemicals.

  • Perform heavy manual labor such as installing tire chains, plowing, debris removal, and performing preventative maintenance on equipment.

  • Support emergency operations during weather emergencies and work outside normal hours, including night shifts and hazardous conditions.


Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

595th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


Perform special duties as assigned. Stand-by for "call in" seasonal work to supplement advance storm preparation and snow removal activities.
How you will contribute:
  • Emergency Operations: Assist and support operations for clearing snow and ice from roadways, applying abrasives and chemicals on road surfaces. May also be called in to respond during other types of weather emergencies.
  • Manual Labor: Perform heavy manual labor such as installing tire chains, plow, and blades, and perform debris removal.
  • Perform duties as assigned.: Perform duties, tasks, activities and/or projects as assigned.
  • Preventative Maintenance: Perform preventative maintenance on equipment used to clear roadways during inclement weather events.

  • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to operate medium and heavy equipment such as dump trucks, front-end loaders, motor graders, backhoe, skid steer, and tractors.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor to include standing, bending, and frequent lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work during the day or night shifts to support emergency operations.
  • Possession of CDL and DOT medical card and ability to maintain thereafter. Must comply with DOT and VDOT policies and standards when operating CDL equipment.
  • Safety shoes required.
  • Skilled in operating medium and heavy equipment such as dump trucks, tractors, front-end loaders, and motor graders.
  • Valid Driver's License

  • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience, or education in Emergency Operation, Snow Removal or related field desired.
  • Ability to perform preventative maintenance on diverse equipment.
  • Ability to perform snow removal operations, especially using single/tandem axle/dump truck, motor grader, backhoe, tractor, front end loader, etc.
  • Ability to work 12-hour shifts, night, and/or day, when necessary.
  • Ability to work outside normal business hours in emergencies, inclement weather, and hazardous traffic conditions.

  • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    About Us
    VDOT utilizes a market based pay program, which has been approved by DHRM. Therefore, advertised rates of pay may or may not align with the Commonwealth pay bands.
    In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities, or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155.
    Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer.
    Please be aware all VDOT positions require pre-employment screenings. These screenings may include the following:
    • Fingerprint based Criminal History Background Check
    • DMV Record Check
    • Work History Verification
    • References
    • Pre-employment physical
    • Drug screen

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