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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator III

Divide, CO

$16.75 - $23/hr

Repairs, maintains, and installs drainage structures as needed on roads using grader, backhoe ... Operating all county equipment at an advanced (master) level. * Coordinating assigned work ...

Equipment Operator III

Divide, CO · On-site

$32.64 - $34.28/hr

Repairs, maintains, and installs drainage structures as needed on roads using grader, backhoe ... Operating all county equipment at an advanced (master) level. * Coordinating assigned work ...

Operator

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We are looking for an experienced operator who can run equipment safely, and productively, must be well rounded in all machinery including (Excavator, Skid steer, Loader, Backhoe, Compactors)

Operator

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We are looking for an experienced operator who can run equipment safely, and productively, must be well rounded in all machinery including (Excavator, Skid steer, Loader, Backhoe, Compactors)

Equipment Operator

Colorado Springs, CO

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Examples of typical equipment operated will be a skid steer, backhoe, mini-excavator, loader, trencher, etc. Primary Responsibilities: * Operates the equipment as needed in support of concrete crew ...

Operator - Restoration

Henderson, CO · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Operator I Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care. Pay Rate ... Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs. * Exposes underground ...

Operator - Restoration

Henderson, CO · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Operator I Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care. Pay Rate ... Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs. * Exposes underground ...

Equipment Operator II

Divide, CO · On-site

$27.17 - $28.53/hr

Applicable safety practices and operating procedures for all county equipment (grader, excavator, backhoe, loader, snowplow, tandem dump truck, belly dump and tractor trailer) and hand tools ...

Applicable safety practices and operating procedures for all county equipment (grader, excavator, backhoe, loader, snowplow, tandem dump truck, belly dump and tractor trailer) and hand tools ...

Applicable safety practices and operating procedures for all county equipment (grader, excavator, backhoe, loader, snowplow, tandem dump truck, belly dump and tractor trailer) and hand tools ...

Position Title: Operator II (Mini Excavator) Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on ... Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs. * Exposes underground ...

Position Title: Operator II (Mini Excavator) Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on ... Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs. * Exposes underground ...

Equipment Operator II

Divide, CO · On-site

$27.17 - $28.53/hr

Applicable safety practices and operating procedures for all county equipment (grader, excavator, backhoe, loader, snowplow, tandem dump truck, belly dump and tractor trailer) and hand tools ...

Operate various equipment such as backhoe, loader, scraper, excavator, water truck, mechanized ... When not operating heavy equipment, must perform all other Laborer and duties Knowledge, Skills ...

Showing results 41-60

Backhoe Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$34.7K

$59.9K

$92.5K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Colorado is $59,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $64,700.00 per year, 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 do backhoe operators make?

Backhoe operators in Florida typically earn an average hourly wage of around $18 to $25, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $37,000 to $52,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they work on.

How much money can I make with a backhoe operator?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with median annual salaries around $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with additional training or specialized equipment knowledge can earn higher wages, especially in construction or heavy civil projects.

Is there demand for backhoe operators?

Backhoe operators are in demand in the construction, landscaping, and infrastructure industries due to ongoing projects and infrastructure development. Employment opportunities often require operating skills, certifications, and familiarity with heavy machinery, and demand can vary by region and economic conditions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,886 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

$16.75 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Equipment Operator III

Teller County's Public Works department is seeking a full-time Equipment Operator III to perform advanced (master-level) transportation operations and a variety of routine administrative, skilled, technical and supervisory work in maintaining and constructing county roads, bridges, tunnels, wastewater facilities and other county infrastructure. Independently operates a wide variety of light, medium, heavy equipment and technologically advanced equipment used in the maintenance and construction of county roads. Serve as a Lead Operator and Trainer over lower-level maintenance workers or seasonal staff. Assist Crew Leader with day-to-day operations and planning. Manages projects also assist with administrative duties such as time keeping, work logs and inventory. Act as Crew Supervisor as directed. Performs manual tasks associated with equipment operations, road maintenance, construction and wastewater treatment infrastructure maintenance. Performs operator required maintenance on all equipment used.

What You'll Do:

  • Serve as Lead Operator and Trainer for crew.
  • Assist in the scheduling and development of road projects and maintenance program.
  • Act as Crew Supervisor as directed
  • Assist in employee screening, interviewing, hiring and employee performance evaluations.
  • Skillfully, proficiently, safely and efficiently at master-level, operates motor graders, loaders, backhoes, dump trucks, tractor trailer units, snowplow, rollers, vac-trucks, brooms, mowers, water trucks, crack fillers, mechanized pothole patchers and other miscellaneous equipment needed for the repair and maintenance of County roads and wastewater facilities.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of operation of asphalt laydown machine, asphalt or chloride distributors, etc.
  • Grades gravel roads using a motor grader.
  • Repairs, maintains, and installs drainage structures as needed on roads using grader, backhoe, excavator, vac-truck, loaders and hand tools.
  • Installs and maintains regulatory, warning, and traffic information signs per the MUTCD.
  • Controls traffic at work sites by signing and/or by flagging to guide traffic through the work areas, as required or assigned.
  • Performs required labor involved in construction and maintenance projects as part of a crew.
  • Plows and sands County roads, thaws culverts, and takes necessary action to secure the safety of the motoring public in the winter.
  • Mows vegetation, cuts and chips trees as needed to increase visibility and safety on County roads.
  • Welds and fabricates as needed to complete tasks assigned.
  • Drives trucks of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling and unloading of various equipment, gravel, and sand.
  • Performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refer defects or maintenance issues requiring repair to supervisor or shop foreman; cleans all equipment.
  • Trainer for lower-level employees to increase their skills in the maintenance, construction, and repair of County roads and bridges.
  • Responds to after-hours emergency call outs.
  • Performs all other appropriate duties and tasks assigned.

What You'll Bring:

Experience/Education :

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Proven highly skilled (master-level) work experience as a heavy equipment operator and truck driver.
  • Must be able to pass the Teller County Equipment Operator III skills test on all county core equipment: motor grader, backhoe, loader and trucks.

You Also Have:

Knowledge of:

  • Principles and practices of leadership, supervision, training, and performance evaluation.
  • Techniques for effective interpersonal communications.
  • Policies, practices, procedures and methods of assigned function.
  • Colorado Motor Vehicle Code and other codes, laws and statutes relating to the position.
  • Applicable safety practices and operating procedures for all county equipment (grader, excavator, backhoe, loader, snowplow, tandem dump truck, belly dump and tractor trailer) and hand tools. (chainsaw, demo saw and laser level)
  • Proper calibration and utilization of road maintenance equipment/machines.
  • Departmental record-keeping procedures.
  • Proper implementation and maintenance of Traffic Control plan as outlined in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
  • County and Department's Employee Policy and Procedures rules and regulations.
  • Industry standards associated with recording activity and report preparation.

Skilled in:

  • Operating all county equipment at an advanced (master) level.
  • Coordinating assigned work activities independently.
  • Training, developing, setting, coaching, and evaluating appointed crew members.
  • Principles and practices of leadership, supervision and performance evaluation.
  • Estimating time, labor, and quantities of materials needed.
  • Properly calibrating and utilizing road maintenance equipment/machines.
  • Handling routine tasks independently with little to no supervision.
  • Working with others, including working as a team member.
  • Troubleshooting situations and identifying and implementing appropriate solutions at an intermediate to advanced level.
  • Diagnosing equipment problems and making field repairs and adjustments.
  • Verbal and written communication, including conveying and following instructions and providing information to the public.

Ability to:

  • Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment, assorted light equipment and trucks.
  • Provide day-to-day maintenance of equipment.
  • Deliver efficiency and quality at the highest of standards.
  • Effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Maintain accurate records
  • Coordinate the schedule of work sequences, interpret plans and specifications.
  • Reason and make sound judgments.
  • Work under stressful conditions.
  • Establish and maintain effective and professional working relationships with co-workers, other county departments, representatives of other agencies/organizations, and serve the public.
  • Work independently and efficiently.
  • Manage time effectively, perform multiple tasks, and organize diverse activities.
  • Demonstrate regular and reliable attendance.

Additional Details About the Role:

  • Physical requirements include the ability to lift/carry up to 80 pounds, visual acuity, speech and hearing, hand and eye coordination, and manual dexterity. Subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing stairs, bending, stooping, crouching, squatting, kneeling, pushing, pulling, reaching, twisting, balancing, repetitive motion, driving and client/customer contact. Subject to extreme temperatures, outside elements, noise, vibration, contact with dust, fumes and hazardous chemicals, foul odors, animal and human fecal matter, insects, and rodents. Requires the use of Personal Protective Equipment as required by job circumstances
  • Subject to involuntary overtime and/or compensation time (comp time) in addition to the normal 40 hours per week. May work weekends, holidays, and 24/7 standby. As members of the County Emergency Response System, all County employees are designated as Disaster Service During a proclaimed emergency, workers may be required to train on emergency response and perform certain emergency services at the direction of their supervisor.
  • Teller County employees play an essential role in business continuity. As such, employees may be assigned to business continuity efforts outside of typical job functions.

License, Certification, or Requirements:

  • Possession of a valid Colorado Class A CDL with no restrictions.
  • Tanker endorsement, or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire. Preferred: Possession of tanker endorsement at time of hire.
  • Work Zone Flagger Certificate, or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
  • FEMA Certificate ICS-100, ICS-200 and ICS-700, or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
  • Willingness to take and successfully complete a First Aid class, CPR class, and other specialized or safety training that may be offered by the Public Works Department or other training facility.
  • Willingness to take additional training such as Road Scholar classes, etc. to improve job skills.

NOTE: Possession of and ability to maintain a valid Colorado Commercial Driver's License Class A without restrictions is required for this position.