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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

American Track

Backhoe Operator

Mulberry, FL

$20/hr

Backhoe Operator Build your career with an innovative and sustainable railroad maintenance and construction team! Our company is rapidly growing, and we have plenty of opportunities available for ...

Hubbard Construction Company

Backhoe Operator

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Additionally, the backhoe operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and backward and how to use the stabilizers to prevent machine movement while digging. Key Duties. * Able to ...

Hubbard Construction

Backhoe Operator

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Additionally, the backhoe operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and backward and how to use the stabilizers to prevent machine movement while digging. Key Duties. * Able to ...

Universal Rail Systems

Backhoe Operator I

Mulberry, FL · On-site

$40K - $53K/yr

Backhoe Operator American Track, a North American Rail Solutions company, is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to perform essential earthwork for railroad construction and maintenance projects. This ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Florida

Backhoe Operator information

See Florida salary details

$24.7K

$42.6K

$65.8K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Florida is $42,560.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,700.00 and $46,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the going rate for backhoe work per hour?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and job complexity. Rates may be higher for specialized skills or union positions, and some operators charge daily or project-based rates instead of hourly. Certification and familiarity with specific equipment can also influence pay rates.

How much money can I make with a backhoe?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages and may receive benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.

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.

Do I need a license to operate a backhoe?

Backhoe operators typically need to obtain a state-issued commercial driver's license (CDL) or a specific operator certification, depending on local regulations. Employers may also require training and certification in equipment operation and safety standards before hiring. Licensing requirements vary by location and the type of work performed.

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 is the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in operating large machinery like cranes, bulldozers, or excavators in high-demand industries such as oil and gas or construction. Experienced operators with certifications, advanced skills, and working in remote or high-risk environments tend to earn the highest salaries, which can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on location and experience.
More about Backhoe Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Florida? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Florida are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in FL? For Backhoe Operator jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 87% Physical, 12% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,560 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Backhoe Operator

Backhoe Operator

American Track

Mulberry, FL

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Backhoe Operator
Build your career with an innovative and sustainable railroad maintenance and construction team! Our company is rapidly growing, and we have plenty of opportunities available for accelerated advancement. We believe that having happy and healthy employees is key to our success, and we offer a wide range of competitive benefits to help our team manage their physical and financial wellness. If you're looking to grow in a hands-on and collaborative environment with one of the most experienced and fastest growing companies in the industry, we'd love to hear from you. Start your adventure building America’s infrastructure today!
We recognize that earthwork is a vital part of almost all railroad construction projects, and our Backhoe Operators are at the heart of our operations. The Backhoe Operator is an hourly-rated skilled craft position that works on construction and maintenance projects. The individual who fills this position will also be trained on and operate specialty railroad machinery that includes a Tamper machine and Ballast Regulator. The applicant is being hired with the intent of working as a Backhoe Operator as well as an operator of our on-track machines. Some travel/weekend work should be expected.
You can earn $20.00+ (depending on experience).   Overtime opportunities available.  
What You'll Do:
  • Set up and operate heavy construction equipment in a safe manner
  • Keep equipment clean and perform required maintenance
  • Proper pre-start and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation
  • Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth and move, load or unload material
  • Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand/audio signals from crew members
  • Signal directions to coworkers
  • Study instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements
  • Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work
  • Grade plan requirements and set grade standards
  • Lead a crew, delegate work within work scope, and assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed basis
  • Understand production and quantity requirements and make decisions based on verifiable standards
  • Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts including operating on-track machinery
  • Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine
Why You'll Love Working for Us:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Coverage
  • PTO and Holidays
  • Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Short Term Disability Insurance
  • 401K
What We Need from You:
  • At least one year of previous experience operating a backhoe in a railroad construction environment - REQUIRED
  • Pre-employment background check and drug screen required
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) preferred
  • Understand work directions and communicate effectively with Superintendents and fellow employees
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time; stoop, bend, and crouch; lift and carry at least 50 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance; frequently work with hands extended overhead, sometimes in conjunction with the use of hand power tools; climb on/off heavy mobile equipment safely; walk on uneven surfaces, including natural ground, in varying weather
  • Maintain constant alertness to the multiple activities of the construction site, including activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions (including very hot and very cold weather), near heavy equipment and moving machinery, and with periodic exposure to high levels of noise, grease, and dust
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this job.