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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bessemer, AL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Field Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

$19.79/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

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 ...

Field Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

  • Dental

  • Retirement

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 ...

OPERATOR I

Prattville, AL · On-site

$0.17 - $775/hr

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 ...

Field Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

$19.79/hr

  • Dental

  • Retirement

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 ...

Jet/Vacuum Truck Operator

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... backhoe, asphalt roller, sweeper, highlift, sidearm mower, sewer truck, rod truck, jet truck, fuel ... Inspects job site for possible hazards prior to operating equipment. Performs manual work functions ...

OPERATOR I

Prattville, AL · On-site

$14.22 - $24.81/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operates heavy tractors such as bulldozer, backhoe, track hoe, and front-end loader for excavating ... Two years of experience operating equipment in road maintenance and construction; or any ...

Equipment Operator I/CDL Driver

Evergreen, AL

$29.47 - $35.36/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Equipment Operator I/CDL Driver performs unskilled and semi-skilled duties in the operation of ... loader, backhoe, single-axel and tandem axel trucks. Duties vary by district and may include ...

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR IV UTILITIES

Fairhope, AL · On-site

$21.38 - $29.13/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operates heavy equipment on job sites, such as, but not limited to backhoe, track hoe, front-end ... Minimum of eight (8) years of work experience operating heavy equipment in road construction and ...

Track Laborer - Tuscaloosa, AL

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

... operating and maintenance instructions and federal and state regulations • Communicate ... equipment such as backhoe and track hoe • Perform other duties as assigned or required ...

Track Laborer - Tuscaloosa, AL

Tuscaloosa, AL

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

... operating and maintenance instructions and federal and state regulations • Communicate ... equipment such as backhoe and track hoe • Perform other duties as assigned or required ...

Showing results 41-60

Backhoe Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$29.9K

$51.6K

$79.8K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 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.

How much money can I make with a backhoe operator?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with additional training or specialized equipment may earn higher wages, especially in construction or heavy civil projects.

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:

Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,621 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Jobs on Cash

Bessemer, AL • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator

Work Location: Bessemer, AL

Job Type: Contract

Responsibilities: -

Heavy Equipment Operation

Safe operation of mobile equipment (wheel loader, haul trucks, water truck, skid steer, backhoe, drill)

Primary Crusher Operation including rock breaker

Perform pre-shift inspection on vehicle prior to operation & submit to plant operator

Fuel equipment as needed and properly log all fuel required

Report all items found during pre-shift inspection

All other heavy equipment operation duties as assigned.

Plant Utility

Plant clean up as required (sweeping, shoveling, manual labor as needed)

Shipping/Loading as required

Perform equipment inspections notifying production and maintenance of issues.

All other plant utility responsibilities as assigned.

Safety

Follow all safety policies and procedures & attend scheduled safety meetings

Maintain a clean and safe work environment

Promote safety among co-workers utilizing BBS

Perform all assigned work adhering to Company and governmental safety rules and regulations, including company lock out tag out procedures

Quality Control

Follow directions and dump mined ore in designated location as directed

Report any deviations from the norm that might impact product quality or processing efficiencies

Weigh truck and properly log weight of material hauled as required

Abide by SFSF guidelines and regulations

General Duties

Must successfully complete ATF background check

Competently operate all HME equipment (loaders, haul trucks, motor grader, dozer, crusher, water truck, etc.)

Ability to perform Blaster assistant duties

Basic knowledge of 12/24volt electrical circuits

Perform proper preventative maintenance on equipment (grease, lube, check fluids, air pressure, etc.)

Contribute to FSMA and SQF initiatives

Actively participate in Behavior Based Safety Observations (BBS) and other Corporate Safety Initiatives

Must not have any documented incidents or disciplinary actions for one year

Ability to perform SAP notifications for equipment and work area

Properly complete daily production workplace examinations

Document and track daily production data

ATTRIBUTES:

Self-motivated and must be able to work independently

Intimate working knowledge of State and Federal laws pertaining to operation of vehicles

Detailed knowledge and understanding of over the road heavy truck operation and safety requirements

Must be capable of working shift work, overtime, seven days, or holidays, if needed

Able to lift over 50 pounds

Demonstrated skills heavy equipment operation a plus, but minimum as demonstrated for an over the road haul truck

History of safe operation of vehicle as demonstrated on driving record

Effectively communicate and interact with supervisors and peers

Tolerate working outside in weather conditions as well as exposure to industrial high temperature, limestone, noise and dust

Must be able to perform in compliance with all Task training requirements

ATF Background Check

All personnel will be responsible for the facilities’ Safe Food initiative based on FSMA and Current Good Manufacturing Practices.

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

High school diploma or GED equivalent.

PREFFERED EXPERIENCE:

1-3 years of relative previous experience.

Lhoist North America offers a very competitive salary package that includes but is not limited to comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, vacation, and disability insurance. You can plan for your future with Lhoist North America 401K retirement savings options which includes an employer match. Lhoist North America also recognizes the importance of continuing education by offering Educational Assistance to our employees to encourage continued personal development and professional growth.