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Backhoe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Track

Backhoe Operator

San Angelo, TX · On-site

The backhoe operator is an hourly-rated skilled craft position that works on construction and maintenance projects and performs any combination of the duties described below. A backhoe operator ...

New

Total-Western

Backhoe Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$46K - $61K/yr

The Backhoe Operator will be responsible for safely and efficiently operating backhoe equipment to perform various tasks, including digging, trenching, grading, and material handling on construction ...

Catholic Diocese of Wilmington

Backhoe Operator

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Backhoe Operator This position is located in Wilmington, Delaware. Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese of Wilmington is seeking a Backhoe Operator who will be responsible to coordinate and perform the ...

Total Western

Backhoe Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$48K - $63K/yr

Backhoe Operator Founded in 1972, Total-Western, Inc. is a premier provider of industrial construction and maintenance services, supporting a wide range of industries, including manufacturing ...

The Walsh Group

Backhoe Operator

Konawa, OK · On-site

$38K - $51K/yr

Backhoe Operator Archer Western Construction is currently seeking a Backhoe Operator for the Central Water Group/ Konawa Pump Station, in Konawa, OK. The Backhoe Operator's primary function is to ...

Hubbard Construction Company

Backhoe Operator

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Additionally, the backhoe operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and backward and how to use the stabilizers to prevent machine movement while digging. Key Duties. * Able to ...

Rinvio

Backhoe Operator

Oxnard, CA

$30 - $55/hr

Rinvio is hiring a Backhoe Operator for full-time construction work supporting concrete cutting, demolition, and excavation jobs across Oxnard, Sylmar, and surrounding Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and ...

American Track

Backhoe Operator

Houston, TX

$40K - $53K/yr

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 ...

New

American Track

Backhoe Operator

Mulberry, FL

$20/hr

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 ...

New

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Backhoe Operator information

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How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in the United States is $56,952.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the going rate for backhoe work per hour?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and job complexity. Rates may be higher for specialized skills or union positions, and some operators charge daily or project-based rates instead of hourly. Certification and familiarity with specific equipment can also influence pay rates.

How much money can I make with a backhoe?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages and may receive benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.

What does a Backhoe Operator do?

A Backhoe Operator is responsible for operating a backhoe, which is a type of heavy construction equipment used for digging, excavating, and moving earth or other materials. Their duties typically include loading and unloading materials, digging trenches, backfilling excavations, and maintaining the equipment. Backhoe Operators often work on construction sites, roadworks, utility installation, and landscaping projects. They must follow safety protocols and be able to read site plans or instructions to complete tasks efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Backhoe Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backhoe Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, equipment operation skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with construction site safety protocols and proficiency in using hydraulic backhoes and related machinery are essential. Attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team help operators stand out. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation of heavy equipment, which is crucial for meeting project deadlines and maintaining workplace safety.

What are some common challenges a Backhoe Operator might face on a job site, and how can they be managed?

Backhoe Operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight spaces, dealing with varying soil conditions, and operating in adverse weather. Safety is also a significant concern, as operators must remain vigilant to avoid underground utilities and protect nearby workers. These challenges can be managed by maintaining open communication with the site supervisor, participating in regular safety briefings, and staying up-to-date with equipment maintenance and best operating practices. Being adaptable and proactive helps ensure both efficiency and safety on the job.

Do I need a license to operate a backhoe?

Backhoe operators typically need to obtain a state-issued commercial driver's license (CDL) or a specific operator certification, depending on local regulations. Employers may also require training and certification in equipment operation and safety standards before hiring. Licensing requirements vary by location and the type of work performed.

What is the difference between Backhoe Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectBackhoe OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often required, OSHA safety trainingOSHA safety training, sometimes specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility work, landscapingConstruction sites, mining, heavy-duty excavation
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, utility firms, landscapingConstruction, mining, infrastructure projects

Both Backhoe Operators and Excavator Operators work in construction and excavation environments, often using similar safety training and certifications. The main difference lies in equipment specialization: Backhoe Operators handle backhoes primarily for digging and loading, while Excavator Operators operate larger excavators for heavy-duty digging and demolition tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and project needs.

What Is a Backhoe Operator?

A backhoe operator, sometimes known as a heavy equipment operator, runs a backhoe—an excavation machine with a large digger bucket attached by a hinged arm. Their responsibilities include the moving or removing of soil and other materials on a construction site. They may also make light repairs on the equipment.

What is the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in operating large machinery like cranes, bulldozers, or excavators in high-demand industries such as oil and gas or construction. Experienced operators with certifications, advanced skills, and working in remote or high-risk environments tend to earn the highest salaries, which can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on location and experience.
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Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 83% Physical, and 17% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $56,952 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Backhoe Operator

Backhoe Operator

American Track

San Angelo, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

We recognize that earthwork is a vital part of almost all railroad construction projects. With our equipment and expertise, we offer a broad range of earthwork services 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 and performs any combination of the duties described below. A backhoe operator typically performs a wide variety of tasks, transferring from one task to another as the workflow dictates. The applicant who fills this position will also be trained on and operate specialty railroad machinery that include 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. We offer competitive pay, paid time off, holiday pay, 401k and a robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.  

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Operate all machinery in a safe manner
  • Set up heavy construction equipment
  • 1+ years of experience operating a backhoe with experience in a railroad construction environment preferred.
  • Proper pre-start and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation
  • Keep equipment clean and well-maintained (perform required maintenance)
  • Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth
  • Operate equipment to move, load or unload material
  • Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
  • Signal directions or warnings to coworkers
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members
  • Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work
  • Study instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements
  • Grade plan requirements and set grade standards
  • Demonstrate the ability to lead a crew and delegate work within work scope
  • Understand production and quantity requirements
  • Make decisions based on verifiable standards
  • Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts including operating on-track machinery
  • Assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed basis
  • Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine

Education and Experience: 

This position requires at least one year of previous experience as a backhoe operator. A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred. Must be able to understand work directions and communicate effectively with Superintendents and fellow employees. A valid driver’s license is required.

Physical Demands:

The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by a backhoe operator to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

  • Constant physical effort, including standing, is required during a regular work shift of at least eight hours per day. Employee must be able to stand for extended periods of time, and to stoop, bend, and crouch as required to perform key duties.
  • Frequently work with hands extended overhead, sometimes in conjunction with the operation of hand power tools.
  • Ability to lift and carry, on a frequent basis, at least 50 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance.
  • Maintain constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment.
  • Frequently walk on uneven surfaces, including natural ground, in varying weather conditions.
  • The operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely.

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