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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$25/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 12 hours/day ... Backhoe, Trackmobile, Forklifts, and other mobile equipment. * Daily plant upkeep and daily ...

Field Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

$19.79/hr

Experience operating a tractor with attachments, weed eater, chainsaw, backhoe and other related lawn equipment. * Ability to learn to operate heavy equipment. * Experience with light construction of ...

... steer, backhoe, drill) Primary Crusher Operation including rock breaker Perform pre-shift ... to plant operator Fuel equipment as needed and properly log all fuel required Report all items ...

Operates heavy tractors such as bulldozer, backhoe, track hoe, and front-end loader for excavating ... Minimum qualifications & Requirements Minimum Qualifications Two years of experience operating ...

Experience operating a tractor with attachments, weed eater, chainsaw, backhoe and other related lawn equipment. Ability to learn to operate heavy equipment. Experience with light construction of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Backhoe Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$29.9K

$51.6K

$79.8K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Alabama is $51,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $55,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in AL? For Backhoe Operator jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Jet/Vacuum Truck Operator

$50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Summary The purpose of this classification is to operate a jet/vacuum truck along with other motorized equipment of heavy weight and complexity for wastewater collection and to perform manual work functions associated with the construction, maintenance and repair of related city grounds, roads, and systems. Essential Functions The following duties are normal for this classification. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification.

Other duties may be required and assigned. Specific duties listed may not be required for all positions within this classification, but are determined by the normal requirements for the particular position. Operates and maintains equipment of heavy to medium size, weight, and difficulty, specifically a jet/vacuum combination truck or CCTV truck but may also include a bucket truck, backhoe, asphalt roller, sweeper, highlift, sidearm mower, sewer truck, rod truck, jet truck, fuel truck, sanitation truck, knuckleboom truck, sewer bucket machine, flusher truck, slope mower, or dump truck to assist in construction, maintenance, and repair work.

Inspects equipment prior to use and ensures necessary equipment repairs are made; performs maintenance tasks necessary to keep machinery, equipment, and tools in good working condition, specifically: greasing and cleaning, maintaining fluid levels, and changing tires, brooms, blades, and rubber slats. Inspects job site for possible hazards prior to operating equipment. Performs manual work functions associated with construction, maintenance, and repair of city roads, drainage systems, water systems, sewer systems, building structures, and grounds.

Sweeps streets, salts roads, cuts grass, picks up, removes and/or hauls trash, garbage and other debris, and removes trees and tree limbs. Shovels and hauls asphalt, demolition debris, road mix, rock, and dirt; cleans gutters, drainage ditches, and right-of-ways. Unstops sewers, pulls hose, locates and inspects manholes and sewer lines, clears and disinfects sewer lines and yards.

Hauls explosives, demolishes houses, buildings, and related structures and removes associated debris. Digs trenches; cuts right-of-ways; lays bricks; builds, repairs and maintains roads, sidewalks, headwalls, and fences; patches holes; packs asphalt; unstops storm drains; cuts pavement; and builds and sets concrete forms. Installs and/or repairs/replaces water lines, sewer lines, meters, valves, drainage boxes, and fire hydrants.

Flags traffic, places/retrieves signage and barricades, and loads/unloads trucks. Must have the knowledge to determine the proper jetter nozzle to use and what operating pressures to use for each while jetting a sewer line. Must be able to read and interpret maps to find address locations and asset location.

Must be able to use GIS to determine asset attributes and functionality Uses computer to receive, input and complete work orders in the City's work order management software. Directs work of assigned staff members. Prepares and/or receives forms, reports or other documents; forwards as appropriate.

Communicates via telephone and/or two-way radio; provides information; takes and relays messages and/or directs calls to appropriate personnel; responds to requests for service. Responds to requests for information from officials, employees, the public or other individuals. Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner.

Performs other related duties as required. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED required; one year of experience in medium to heavy equipment operation and maintenance or a related field. Must possess and maintain an Alabama Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class A or Class B depending on position.

This job classification is considered to be safety-sensitive and is subject to pre-employment and random drug screens. Minimum Requirements to Perform Essential Job Functions The following requirements are normal for this classification. Specific requirements may not apply to all positions within this classification, but are determined by the normal requirements for the particular position.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to operate a variety of equipment, machinery and tools which may include a boom truck, bucket truck, backhoe, sweeper, highlift, sidearm mower, sewer truck, rod truck, jet/vacuum truck, fuel truck, sanitation truck, knuckleboom truck, flusher truck, slope mower, or dump truck, chain saw, two-way radio, mechanics tools. Physical demand requirements for some positions within this classification may at times be at levels of those for heavy work. DATA COMPREHENSION: Requires the ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable functional, structural, or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people, or things which may include work orders, maps, and operational manuals.

INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION: Requires the ability to speak with and/or signal people to convey or exchange information, including giving/receiving assignments and/or directions to/from co-workers, assistants, managers, or supervisors as well as communicating with the general public. LANGUAGE ABILITY: May require ability to read a variety of informational documentation, directions, instructions, and methods and procedures. Requires the ability to write basic job related documentation and reports with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar, using all parts of speech.

May require ability to speak with others with poise, voice control, and confidence using correct English and well-modulated voice. INTELLIGENCE: Requires the ability to learn and understand relatively basic mechanical and operational principles and techniques, to understand departmental policies and procedures, to make independent judgments in absence of supervision, and to acquire and be able to expound on knowledge of topics related to primary occupation. VERBAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, and to follow verbal and written instructions.

NUMERICAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to add and subtract, multiply and divide, and determine time and weight. FORM/SPATIAL APTITUDE: Requires the ability to visually inspect items for proper length, width, and shape using job related equipment which may include standard measuring devices. MOTOR COORDINATION: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes in using medium to heavy equipment and to operate a motor vehicle.

MANUAL DEXTERITY: Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, medium to heavy equipment, motor vehicles, control knobs, switches, mechanics tools, etc. Must have the ability to use one hand for twisting motion or turning motion while coordinating other hand with different activities. Must have average levels of eye/hand/foot coordination.

COLOR DIFFERENTIATION: May require the ability to discern color. INTERPERSONAL TEMPERAMENT: Requires the ability to deal with and relate to people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be able to adapt to and perform under moderate stress when confronted with an emergency.

PHYSICAL COMMUNICATION: Requires the ability to talk, express, or exchange ideas by means of spoken words and/or hear and perceive nature of sounds by ear.