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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Pilgrim's

Operator Embrex

Calhoun, GA

$41K - $54K/yr

Description PILGRIMS PRIDE ELLIJAY COMPLEX JOB TITLE: EMBREX ORG. UNIT: ORG. UNIT NUMBER: 31502 LOCATION: Calhoun Hatchery DATE PREPARED/UPDATED: 04/16/10 PREPARED/UPDATED BY: Marie McDaniel S UMMARY

Southeastern Site Development

Excavator Operator

Lagrange, GA · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Position Overview Southeastern Site Development is seeking an experienced Excavator Operator (Backhoe / Trackhoe) for projects throughout the West Central Georgia Region - LaGrange . This role is key ...

Precision 2000 (P2K)

Equipment Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Operates construction equipment such as excavator, bulldozer, dozer, motor grader, backhoe, roller compactor, skid steer. The Operator must be able to do daily mechanical checks to report any safety ...

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Backhoe Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$27.9K

$48.1K

$74.3K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Georgia is $48,089.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,300.00 and $51,900.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Georgia? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Georgia are:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Georgia? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in GA? For Backhoe Operator jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Georgia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 16% Temporary. Highlights an 72% Physical, and 28% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $48,089 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Operator Embrex

Operator Embrex

Pilgrim's

Calhoun, GA

$41K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Pilgrim's rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 127 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 389 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Description

JOB DESCRIPTION

PILGRIMS PRIDE

ELLIJAY COMPLEX

 

JOB TITLE:  EMBREX

ORG. UNIT: 

ORG. UNIT NUMBER:  31502

LOCATION: Calhoun Hatchery

DATE PREPARED/UPDATED:  04/16/10

PREPARED/UPDATED BY:  Marie McDaniel

SUMMARY:  Vaccination of eggs to be hatched for broiler farms.  Sanitation and machinery maintenance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

      Vaccination of eggs to be hatched for broiler farms

      Sanitation of lab, work area and Embrex machine

      Maintenance of Embrex machine if problem can’t be fixed report to  Embrex service tech

      Mixing of  vaccine for Embrex vaccination

      Monitoring incubator and hatcher machines

 

Performs other related duties as assigned to support production demands as may be specified by customer or client.

 

 

NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS:

 

Pad boxes

 

QUALIFICATIONS:  (if any)

 

To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to physically perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Follow vaccine mixing procedures and proper storage of vaccine

Ability to work computerized machinery

 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:  (if necessary)

 

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIRED:

 

Training from certified Embrex personnel to operate Embrex machinery.

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

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:

      Continuously:  standing, walking

      Frequently:  lifting, turning, twisting, bending, squatting, pushing, grasping, kneeling, reach forward, pulling stretching.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to wet and humid conditions and moving mechanical parts.  The employee is occasionally exposed to high precarious places, extreme cold; risk of electrical shock; and vibration.  The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud.

PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (List any and all personal safety or health protection equipment and gear required by either regulatory or sanitary procedures)

SAFETY FACTORS TO BE AWARE OF:

      Know how to use and locate the emergency stop switch.

      Know location of primary and secondary emergency exits.

      Know and use proper lifting techniques.

      Always be aware of pallet jack traffic (electric and hand jack)

NOTE:  The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the daily work being performed by partners assigned to this classification.  They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills or customer specifications and processes required of personnel so assigned.

 EOE, including disability/vets

1

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About Pilgrim's

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pilgrim's is a leading global provider of high-quality food products, including well-recognized brands and value-added premium products. As one of the world's largest poultry producers, Pilgrim's has provided wholesome, quality products to customers and consumers for more than seven decades. It's our passion for excellence that continues to drive us to be the best, and we seek opportunities to diversify and grow.

Industry

Animal farming

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Greeley, CO, US

Year founded

1946

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