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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ

$15.50 - $19/hr

Operate heavy equipment including water truck, backhoe, gang mower, bobcat, trencher, skip loader ... May direct the work of employees operating equipment on a training basis. * Identify equipment ...

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ

$15.50 - $19/hr

Operate heavy equipment including water truck, backhoe, gang mower, bobcat, trencher, skip loader ... May direct the work of employees operating equipment on a training basis. * Identify equipment ...

Dig trenches using a backhoe for water/sewer line installation/repair and hydrant installation ... Perform operator-level inspection, servicing, fueling, and maintenance of assigned tools, equipment ...

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Operate heavy equipment including water truck, backhoe, gang mower, bobcat, trencher, skip loader ... May direct the work of employees operating equipment on a training basis. * Identify equipment ...

Perform all phases of mobilizing, operating and maintaining heavy excavation equipment (hydrovac truck, backhoe, track hoe, side boom, dozer, and maintainers) to include excavation frequently on ...

Operator III

Pine, AZ · On-site

$28.08 - $35.10/hr

Operator III is the lead specialist level classification in the Equipment Operator series. The ... grader, backhoe, front end loader, tandem-axel trucks, tractor-trailer or truck and trailer ...

Equipment Operator II

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

An Equipment Operator II is a journey-level classification responsible for the safe, efficient ... backhoe with multiple bucket sizes and dump truck. Allocation to this class establishes the ...

Backhoe and/or Mini Ex experience is a plus Working experience in construction, or the utility distribution industry in Gas or Electric is preferred. * 3 plus years of working experience in operating ...

Showing results 41-60

Backhoe Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$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?

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 Arizona? The most popular types of 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:
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,073 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Operator Journeyman

CEMEX

Prescott Valley, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Founded in 1906, over the last 110+ years' CEMEX has grown into a global building materials company that provides high quality products and reliable service to customers and communities throughout the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.  Here at CEMEX we offer our employees competitive wages, career growth, excellent benefits including health, dental & vision plans, vacation or paid time off,  employee assistance program and retirement plan options, along with over a century of stability to build your next career on! To learn more about our company culture and why you should join us, visit us at www.cemexusa.com/careers. For direct access to CEMEX Career Opportunities, visit us at https://jobs.cemex.com/.

Job Summary

The Journeyman Operator is responsible for operation of heavy mobile equipment.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 inspections on vehicles, and for operating the vehicles safely
  • The Equipment Operator has the responsibility of being able to operate all mobile and heavy-duty equipment on site (dozers, loaders, haul truck, etc.)
  • Will perform clean-up work as necessary to keep tools, equipment, and working areas clean, orderly and safe
  • Must comply with company safety rules and regulations
  • Ability to be multi-diversified in performing other related duties such as maintenance/repair, and yard loading when needed
  • Able to understand, interpret, and execute instructions given in both verbal and written form
  • Schedule or call for repairs and parts
  • Recognize potentially hazardous situations
  • Adhere to all CEMEX and O.S.H.A. rules and regulations at all times
  • Wear proper safety equipment while on plant grounds
  • Meet or exceed company safety standards
  • Perform other job responsibilities as assigned by management
Qualifications
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years experience in operating heavy equipment
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in position or related field. 
  • High School diploma/GED equivalent.
  • Ability to work scheduled shift hours and be flexible with scheduling, overtime and weekends.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability to work scheduled shift hours and be flexible with scheduling, overtime and weekends
  • Be able to read, write, and speak English
  • Bilingual a plus 
Working Conditions
  • Continuous exposure to extreme heat, extreme cold, extreme noise, and working outdoors
  • Must be able to handle multiple tasks in a fast paced environment
  • Must wear protective equipment while at the location 
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to perform all job functions which include, but may not be limited to walking, sitting, lifting, pushing, pulling, turning, climbing to a significant degree,  and/or pulling of controls
  • Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or a negligible amount of force frequently
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear, in order to communicate to employees/visitors as well as function safely around heavy rolling equipment
Requires walking, sitting, lifting, pushing, pulling, and climbing to a significant degree
  • Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or a negligible amount of force frequently.   Job involves sitting most of the time, but also involves walking or standing for brief periods of time
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear, in order to communicate to employees/visitors as well as function safely around heavy rolling equipment  
  • Must be able to perform all job functions which include, but may not be limited to, pushing, turning, and/or pulling of controls
Legal Notices

CEMEX is an EEO/AA (equal opportunity/affirmative action) institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by under federal, state or local law in the programs or activities which it operates.

CEMEX will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all local, state and federal laws.

CEMEX is an E-Verify participating employer.

Arizona Smoke-Free Act.  CEMEX complies with the State of Arizona's Smoke-Free Act (Arizona Revised Statutes 36-601.01). Smoking and/or the use of tobacco or related products is prohibited in and on CEMEX property as well as any building and/or vehicle owned or leased by CEMEX.

CEMEX offers both competitive pay and benefits. Benefits applicable to this position may include, but are not limited to, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), Paid Time Off, and Holiday Pay, as well as a comprehensive wellness program to help keep employees and their families healthy and well. You can learn more about CEMEX Benefits by visiting the CEMEX USA Benefits and Well-Being page. (https://www.cemexusa.com/careers/life-at-cemex/benefits-well-being).

EEO Statement - En Espanol

CEMEX es una institucion EEO/AA (igualdad de oportunidad/accion afirmativa) y no discrimina en base al sexo, edad, raza, color, religion, discapacidad fisica o mental, credo, origen nacional, estatus veterano, orientacion sexual, informacion genetica, identidad de genero, o expresion de genero en los programas o actividades los cuales opera.