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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Excavator Operators At Golderado, the workwe do is built by the people on our sites every day. We're looking for skilled, hardworking tradespeople who take pride in their craft, look out for their ...

HYDROVAC OPERATOR

Edmonton, AB · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

HYDROVAC OPERATOR GCS is looking for an experienced Hydrovac Operator to support our drilling crews in Edmonton. Full-time, seasonal work that is locally based. We offer competitive wages, health and ...

Machine Operator

High River, AB · On-site

  • Retirement

IKO is a Canadian owned and operated business with production facilities worldwide and has many years of unparalleled success in the roofing materials industry. Quality, integrity, and ...

Reporting to the Hydrovac Supervisor, the Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the safe operation and routine maintenance of hydrovac units on job sites throughout the Edmonton region. This position ...

We are looking to hire a Snowplow Operator, Highway Maintenance Operations to be based in Slave Lake, AB. Roles and Responsibilities: * Operation of spreader, plow wing, combo unit or tow plow in a ...

Dozer Operator

Fort Mcmurray, AB · On-site

CA$41.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Position Scope Position Scope NASI is seeking Dozer Operators to join our remote mining site team in the Fort McMurray area. This is your opportunity to join one of the safest and largest contractors ...

Dozer Operator

Fort Mcmurray, AB · On-site

CA$41.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Position Scope NASI is seeking Dozer Operators to join our remote mining site team in the Fort McMurray area. This is your opportunity to join one of the safest and largest contractors in the region.

Dozer Operator

Fort Mcmurray, AB · On-site

CA$41.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Position Scope NASI is seeking Dozer Operators to join our remote mining site team in the Fort McMurray area. This is your opportunity to join one of the safest and largest contractors in the region.

Dozer Operator

Fort Mcmurray, AB

CA$41.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Position Scope Position Scope NASI is seeking Dozer Operators to join our remote mining site team in the Fort McMurray area. This is your opportunity to join one of the safest and largest contractors ...

Excavator Operator

Edmonton, AB · On-site

CA$36 - CA$42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

Park Paving Ltd. has been locally owned and operated for over 50 years as one of the largest road construction contractors in Edmonton, and we are looking for EXPERIENCED EXCAVATOR OPERATORS to join ...

We are looking to hire aSnowplow Operator, Highway Maintenance Operationsto be based in Slave Lake, AB. Roles and Responsibilities: * Operation of spreader, plow wing, combo unit or tow plow in a ...

Position Overview A Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift to safely and efficiently move materials within a warehouse, distribution center, or other industrial settings. This role ...

Dozer Operator

Fort Mcmurray, AB

CA$41.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Position Scope Position Scope NASI is seeking Dozer Operators to join our remote mining site team in the Fort McMurray area. This is your opportunity to join one of the safest and largest contractors ...

Showing results 41-60

Backhoe Operator information

See Alberta salary details

$11

$24

$40

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for backhoe operator in Alberta is $24.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in AB?

For Backhoe Operator jobs in AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,293 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Excavator Operators

At Golderado, the workwe do is built by the people on our sites every day. We're looking for skilled, hardworking tradespeople who take pride in their craft, look out for their crew, and want to go home safe at the end of every shift. We're committed to providing a safe, respectful, and productive work environment where skilled tradespeople can do their best work every day. Our teams take pride in quality craftsmanship, collaboration, and getting the job done right. We invest in training, development, and the right tools to help our people grow their skills and advance their careers, while supporting work-life balance along the way.

At Golderado, your hard work is valued, your safety comes first, and challenging work leads to real opportunities and long-term rewards.

An Excavator Operator in heavy civil and underground construction sector safely controls heavy machinery to excavate, trench, grade, and backfill earth. Operators must expose live utilities, and strictly adhere to Alberta's OH&S and local ground disturbance regulations.

Key Information:

  • Hours: Project dependent
  • Must be willing to work evenings and weekends on various schedules.
  • Hourly rate is dependent on experience.
  • Health benefits, pension plan, RRSP matching, vacation pay offered.

Job Description:

  • Perform precision trenching, sloping, benching, and backfilling for water, storm, and sewer utility installations.
  • Safely operate equipment to expose and avoid live gas, electrical, water, and telecom lines.
  • Grade, strip overburden, and shape earth according to project blueprints, grade stakes, or GPS machine control.
  • Conduct comprehensive daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections, basic servicing (lubricating/greasing), and report mechanical issues.
  • Execute Field Level Hazard Assessments (FLHAs), maintain excellent awareness of surrounding ground crews, and utilize spotters when required.
  • When required, assist other operators, labourers, and trades.

Experience and Certification Requirements:

  • A minimum of 5 years of experience operating various excavator models in civil, road building, or underground construction.
  • CSTS 2020, WHMIS 2015, Ground Disturbance Level 2 are required.
  • You have the ability to quickly identify problem situations, evaluate alternative causes and produce workable solutions and work positively within a team to achieve a common goa
  • Ability to work in all seasonal weather conditions, withstand heavy equipment vibrations, repetitively lift up to 50lbs, and work up to 12-hour shifts.
  • A reliable means of transportation is required.
  • Proficient English language skills required.

Education: Completion of high school or equivalent is required.

Go ahead and be yourself. We'll pay you for it!

We are an equal opportunity employer. While only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview, be sure to continually check our website for other related positions as they are posted.



  • A successful pre-access drug and Alcohol test may be required depending on the project.