... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
Operator - Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$16.75 - $22/hr
Three (3) years to five (5) years of related experience operating dozer, loader, backhoe, gannon, scraper, or compactor is required.Five (5) plus years of related experience preferred.AAP/EEO ...
Quick apply
Operator - Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$16.75 - $22/hr
Three (3) years to five (5) years of related experience operating dozer, loader, backhoe, gannon, scraper, or compactor is required.Five (5) plus years of related experience preferred.AAP/EEO ...
Operator I
Tucson, AZ · On-site
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
Operator I
Tucson, AZ · On-site
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Operator I
Scottsdale, AZ · On-site
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
Operator I
Scottsdale, AZ · On-site
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
Operator I
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
New
Operator I
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
New
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
Operator I
Tucson, AZ · On-site
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
New
Operator I
Tucson, AZ · On-site
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
New
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Vermeer directional drills, backhoe, excavators. * Individuals must be able to read prints and have ... Operator must always be knowledgeable of all typical safety procedures and be able to apply them.
Be Seen First
... backhoe, compactor, forklift, dozer, haul trucks, water trucks, and/or motor grader and perform pre ... Acceptable driving record is required for operating on highway motor vehicles. * Must be able to ...
Quick apply
Be Seen First
... backhoe, compactor, forklift, dozer, haul trucks, water trucks, and/or motor grader and perform pre ... Acceptable driving record is required for operating on highway motor vehicles. * Must be able to ...
Operator Equipment
Sierra Vista, AZ · On-site
$17.75 - $24.25/hr
This would include, but not limited to, front end loaders, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and haul truck. Job Responsibilities * All Equipment Operators are responsible for daily or pre-shift ...
Operator Equipment
Sierra Vista, AZ · On-site
$17.75 - $24.25/hr
This would include, but not limited to, front end loaders, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and haul truck. Job Responsibilities * All Equipment Operators are responsible for daily or pre-shift ...
Equipment Operator II - Transportation
Tucson, AZ · On-site
$22.85 - $26.84/hr
Operates backhoe to excavate around high-pressure gas lines, electrical conduits, and water mains ... Experience operating various types of heavy equipment used in roadway maintenance and repair ...
New
Equipment Operator II - Transportation
Tucson, AZ · On-site
$22.85 - $26.84/hr
Operates backhoe to excavate around high-pressure gas lines, electrical conduits, and water mains ... Experience operating various types of heavy equipment used in roadway maintenance and repair ...
New
TRACTOR OPERATOR (GARDNER)
Litchfield Park, AZ · On-site
$19 - $22.25/hr
Duties Help operate field-type tractors with attachments, mowers, aerators, plows, harrows, clippers, sprayers, disks, post hole diggers, moveable dozer, blades, backhoe, and other equipment ranging ...
TRACTOR OPERATOR (GARDNER)
Litchfield Park, AZ · On-site
$19 - $22.25/hr
Duties Help operate field-type tractors with attachments, mowers, aerators, plows, harrows, clippers, sprayers, disks, post hole diggers, moveable dozer, blades, backhoe, and other equipment ranging ...
Operator Journeyman
Prescott Valley, AZ · On-site
This would include, but not limited to, front end loaders, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and haul truck. Job Responsibilities * All Equipment Operators are responsible for daily or pre-shift ...
Operator Journeyman
Prescott Valley, AZ · On-site
This would include, but not limited to, front end loaders, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and haul truck. Job Responsibilities * All Equipment Operators are responsible for daily or pre-shift ...
As an experienced Equipment Operator , after paid training , you will put your skills to work ... Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw ...
As an experienced Equipment Operator , after paid training , you will put your skills to work ... Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw ...
This would include, but not limited to, front end loaders, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and haul truck. Job Responsibilities * All Equipment Operators are responsible for daily or pre-shift ...
This would include, but not limited to, front end loaders, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and haul truck. Job Responsibilities * All Equipment Operators are responsible for daily or pre-shift ...
Backhoe Operator information
See Arizona salary details
$30.8K - $35.4K
6% of jobs
$35.4K - $40.1K
7% of jobs
$43.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$40.1K - $44.7K
17% of jobs
The median wage is $48.7K / yr.
$44.7K - $49.4K
22% of jobs
$49.4K - $54K
15% of jobs
$56.4K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$54K - $58.7K
14% of jobs
$58.7K - $63.4K
2% of jobs
$63.4K - $68K
1% of jobs
$68K - $72.7K
4% of jobs
$72.7K - $77.3K
6% of jobs
$77.3K - $82K
4% of jobs
$30.8K
$53.1K
$82K
How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Arizona is $53,073.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $57,300.00 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?
| Aspect | Backhoe Operator | Excavator Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Commercial driver's license (CDL) often required, OSHA safety training | OSHA safety training, sometimes specialized certifications |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, utility work, landscaping | Construction sites, mining, heavy-duty excavation |
| Employer & Industry | Construction companies, utility firms, landscaping | Construction, 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.
More about Backhoe Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Arizona? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
- Overnight Excavator Operator
- Demolition Heavy Equipment Operator
- Remote Excavator Operator
- Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem
- Seasonal Logging Equipment Operator
- Mini Excavator Operator
- Heavy Equipment Superintendent
- Coal Mining Equipment Operator
- Heavy Equipment Operator Mining
- Overnight Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in AZ? For Backhoe Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted yesterday
Mortenson rating
8.4
Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
SUMMARY
Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator that will be responsible for operating equipment as directed and specified while adhering to all rules and regulations as mandated by Mortenson safety policies and procedures.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid-steer, boom lifts/aerial lifts, roller, backhoe, and track crane
- Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly housekeeping
- Perform routine maintenance, observe equipment operation, and detect malfunctions
- Follow work plans and pre-task cards
- Build relationships with diverse backgrounds and organizational levels
- Perform all other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- Equipment certifications as required
- Minimum one (1) year of related experience
- Current driver's license of proper classification and necessary endorsements as required by law
- Strong teamwork orientation, positive attitude, professional customer service skills, and detail-oriented; ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts
- Ability to operate equipment by moving levers, shifting gears, depressing pedals, and maneuvering steering wheels; knowledge of equipment and their uses; basic mathematical skills
- Ability to work independently with active listening and effective communication skills, open to diverse input and feedback
- Repetitive hand, arm, leg movements
- *Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling: up to 50 lbs.
- Please note: this position description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position. The duties and responsibilities of this position may change without notice.
*Lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling over 50 lbs will be done with assistance of another team member or equipment.
A few benefits offered include:
- Medical and prescription drug plans that includes no additional cost vision coverage
- Dental plan
- 401k retirement plan with a generous Mortenson match
- Paid time off, holidays, and other paid leaves
- Employer paid Life, AD&D, and disability insurance
- No-Cost mental health tool and conciergewith extensive work-life resources
- Tuition reimbursement
- Adoption Assistance
- Gym Membership Discount Program
Please make note:
- Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.
- Our postings are typically open a minimum of 5 days and an average of 44 days.
ABOUT MORTENSON
As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction), our expertise spans markets like sports, renewable energy, data centers, healthcare, and more. We are builders at heart, working to ensure the built environment has a lasting positive impact.
Let's Redefine Possible
Equal Employment Opportunity
Your uniqueness brings new and creative perspectives to the team. Mortenson is committed to providing equal opportunities of employment (EOE) to all individuals, regardless of your race, religion, gender, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status or any other legally protected category.
Other Items to Note
- Mortenson reserves the right to hire any individual without legal or financial obligation on unwanted solicitations.No agency emails, calls, or solicitations are accepted without a valid agreement.
- Must be currently legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status, 0-1, TN, CPT, OPT, etc.). We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
What Mortenson employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About M. A. Mortenson
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
M. A. Mortenson is a prominent name in the construction industry, based out of Minneapolis, MN, US. Established in 1954 by M.A. Mortenson Sr., the company has over six decades of experience offering construction services that have contributed to building lasting infrastructures across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, corporate, and sports. Mortenson has proven its exceptional expertise through a range of complex building and facility projects across the US fulfilling the customer's specifications and exceeding their expectations. Moreover, the company's core values are outlined as ‘Do the Right Thing’, ‘We Before I’, ‘Inspire What’s Possible’, and ‘In it for the long haul’.
Industry
Manufacturing and construction
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Minneapolis, MN, US