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Backhoe Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$34.97/hr

  • Retirement

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Backhoe, Trackmobile, Forklifts, and other mobile equipment. * Daily plant upkeep and daily ...

Landsystems

Class A Driver and Equipment Operator

Encinitas, CA

$26 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Safely operates a variety of construction equipment including forklift, tractors, backhoe, roller ... operating divisions. Pay range: $26.00 - $34.00 Landsystems is an EEO and E-Verify participating ...

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$34.97/hr

  • Retirement

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Backhoe, Trackmobile, Forklifts, and other mobile equipment. * Daily plant upkeep and daily ...

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

Pittsburg, CA

$34.97/hr

  • Retirement

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Backhoe, Trackmobile, Forklifts, and other mobile equipment. * Daily plant upkeep and daily ...

San Joaquin Delta College

Groundskeeper/Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$3.8K - $4.7K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the next ... backhoe and forklift. * Evaluate natural turf athletic fields for wear, pest problems and ...

CEMEX

Operator Equipment

Rialto, CA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Clean Harbors

IS Equipment Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments * Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services ...

CEMEX

Operator Equipment

Rialto, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Clean Harbors

IS Equipment Operator

Bakersfield, CA

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments * Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services ...

Clean Harbors

IS Equipment Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments * Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services ...

CleanHarbors

IS Equipment Operator

Bakersfield, CA

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating heavy equipment (excavator, backhoe, loader) in construction, oilfield, or similar environments * Experience in well abandonment, construction, demolition, or industrial services ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in California

Backhoe Operator information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$56.2K

$86.8K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in California is $56,206.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $60,700.00 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.

More about Backhoe Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in CA?

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

Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,206 per year, or $27 per hour.

Class A Driver and Equipment Operator

Monarch Landscape Companies

Encinitas, CA • On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Landsystems
Monarch Landscape Companies is a family of successful landscape brands in eight states across the United States. We are a values-based learning organization committed to being the best place to work as a landscape professional. Our approach to investing in people is simple. We put the Field First!
This posting remains open year-round as we are always looking for great people to join our team! If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit your application and we will reach out shortly.
NATURE OF WORK: Under general supervision, coordinates pick up and delivery of equipment and materials to specific job sites. Will act as a laborer when necessary and operate a variety of construction equipment including forklift, tractors, backhoe, roller, skid steer, and trenchers.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must have 1 year construction equipment operation experience
  • CDL class A driver's license with 2 years clean DMV record.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:
  • Deliver and pick up equipment and material to specific job sites
  • Loads and unloads truck.
  • Maintains communication with supervisor to receive delivery.
  • Inspects truck, equipment, and supplies to insure job safety
  • Performs routine maintenance on truck.
  • Safely operates a variety of construction equipment including forklift, tractors, backhoe, roller, skid steer, and trenchers.
  • Acts as a laborer on construction job sites by performing manual labor including grading, planting, and using a pick and shovel, and as directed.
  • Safely transport heavy equipment including truck and trailer combination, water truck, backhoe, gang mower, bobcat, trencher, skiploader with bucket and crane truck for a variety of landscape operations.
  • Inspects equipment daily to ensure proper and safe operation.
  • Installation of landscape.
  • Operation, care, use and maintenance of all hand tools, power tools and construction equipment related to the trade.
  • Application of methods and techniques of handling, distributing storage and delivery of material and equipment.
  • Performs other related duties as directed.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Construction Landscape experience a plus.
  • Must be able to work a flexible work schedule.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish useful.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Constantly required to talk, hear, see, sit, stand and walk.
  • Must be able to see at close vision, distant vision, peripherally, have depth perception and can adjust focus.
  • Frequent use of hands to manipulate, handle or feel objects, tools or controls.
  • Duties are performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. of weight frequently throughout the day.
  • Ability to repeatedly bend, stoop, lift, push and pull materials and equipment to complete job tasks.
  • Ability to work in various positions including, but not limited to, standing, walking, stooping, bending, sitting, kneeling and squatting for extended periods.

Total Rewards
At Monarch, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage, and retain top talent. Elements of our Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
Monarch also provides eligible employees with an array of additional benefits, including:
  • The opportunity to enroll in a variety of healthcare benefit programs, including medical, dental, and vision plan options; flexible spending accounts; retirement savings plans; term life/ad&d; and a number of supplemental insurances
  • Company Provided Life/AD&D
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 7 Paid Holidays
  • 3 Days Paid Bereavement
  • 5 Days Paid Jury Duty
  • Employee Equity Program
  • Paid Time Off Starting at 1 week per year
  • Sick Pay in accordance with applicable state or local ordinance
  • On-Demand Pay Through A Partnership with DailyPay
  • Referral Bonuses Programs
  • Gym Membership and Mobile Carrier Discounts
  • Education Assistance
  • Best-in-Class Learning Management System
  • Career Advancement Opportunities

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as position, tenure, geographic location, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Please note that the salary information shown below is provided in compliance with state specific laws. Salaries are based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations, and therefore may be different in other locations or operating divisions.
Pay range: $26.00 - $34.00
Landsystems is an EEO and E-Verify participating employer.
Landsystems is an On Demand Daily Pay employer

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