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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

MP

Heavy Equipment / Backhoe Operator

Pontiac, IL · On-site

MP Nexlevel, LLC, a leader in the utilities construction industry, is looking for Skilled Backhoe Operators. An Operator should possess a fundamental understanding of construction and be able to ...

Clean Harbors

Equipment Operator

Dolton, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Clean Harbors in Dolton, IL is looking for a Equipment Operator will be operating an Excavator and Backhoe for our Mix Pit operations. Pay: $28hr. w/$1.75 SD pay added for 2nd shift Shift: 2nd shift ...

CleanHarbors

Equipment Operator

Dolton, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Clean Harbors in Dolton, IL is looking for a Equipment Operator will be operating an Excavator and Backhoe for our Mix Pit operations. Pay: $28hr. w/$1.75 SD pay added for 2nd shift Shift: 2nd shift ...

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Clinton, IL

$27 - $33/hr

Operator will use a two-way radio to communicate with co-workers in the field and or office ... Operate excavator, forklift/bobcat, front-loader, baler, backhoe, track hoe, bull dozer, compactor ...

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Clinton, IL · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

... backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material. Pay ... Operator will steer, guide and or drive the above listed equipment at the assigned site, if the ...

M. A. Mortenson Company

Power Operator

Itasca, IL · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

Signal Energy

Heavy Equipment Operator

Murphysboro, IL · On-site

$45K - $62K/yr

We are looking for a team of Operators to join our team to support the Mechanical Scope of our ... Backhoe * Excavator Skills/Abilities: * Follow prescribed safety regulations * Knowledge of ...

Mortenson

Power Operator

Itasca, IL

... backhoe, and track crane * Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

East Saint Louis, IL · On-site

$18 - $20.75/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Primary Location: East St.Louis Shift: 12 hours per day - Rotating ... Backhoe, Trackmobile, Forklifts, and other mobile equipment. * Daily plant upkeep and daily ...

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

East Saint Louis, IL · On-site

$31.69/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Primary Location: East St.Louis Shift: 12 hours per day - Rotating ... Backhoe, Trackmobile, Forklifts, and other mobile equipment. * Daily plant upkeep and daily ...

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

East Saint Louis, IL

$18 - $20.75/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Primary Location: East St.Louis Shift: 12 hours per day - Rotating ... Backhoe, Trackmobile, Forklifts, and other mobile equipment. * Daily plant upkeep and daily ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Illinois

Backhoe Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$32K

$55.2K

$85.3K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Illinois is $55,188.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $59,600.00 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 Illinois? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Illinois are:
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What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in IL? For Backhoe Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% 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 $55,188 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Heavy Equipment / Backhoe Operator

Heavy Equipment / Backhoe Operator

MP Nexlevel

Pontiac, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 hours ago

MP Nexlevel rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

MP Nexlevel, LLC, a leader in the utilities construction industry, is looking for Skilled Backhoe Operators. An Operator should possess a fundamental understanding of construction and be able to operate different construction equipment and tools including skid steers, excavators, and backhoes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
· Ability to operate a certain piece of equipment
· Grease, oil and do daily maintenance of equipment
· Hand dig around existing utilities when necessary
· Trained to operate tampers, jackhammers, drills, and saws
· Carry and load materials to be used on the job
· Follow all company safety policies and practices
· Report any equipment repairs needed to Foreman or Supervisor
· Light repair and maintenance of tools and equipment
· Assist in hauling equipment to and from job site
· Clean up and restore work area
· Wash and clean vehicles and equipment
· Safety training as required by position
· Paperwork filing and maintenance as needed
· Other duties as assigned

Essential Education and Qualifications:
· Good verbal communication skills
· Must have valid CDL

· 3-5 years experience in the underground utilities construction industry
· Valid DOT Health Card

Physical Demands:
· Must be physically fit to endure the daily activity involved with the job
· Must be able to work in all weather conditions
· Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds

Benefits offered to eligible employees include medical, dental, vision, and supplemental life insurance, along with Paid Time Off, paid Holidays, traditional and ROTH 401(k) options with company match, employee stock purchase plan, education assistance program, employee assistance program, training and development opportunities, Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program, and a Commercial Driver’s License obtainment program.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

All offers of employment are expressly contingent upon the satisfactory completion, in accordance with Company policy, of a pre-employment drug screening and may be subject to a background check.

What MP Nexlevel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

MP NEXLEVEL logo

About MP NEXLEVEL

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MP is a nationally recognized full service utility contracting company that was founded in 1973. It started by offering excavation services locally in Minnesota. Today, MP offers turnkey services to a wide range of markets throughout the United States, with permanent offices in Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Texas, California, and Arizona. MP Nexlevel takes pride in delivering quality work on time and within budget. We strive to exceed our customer’s expectations with every project. No matter the continued growth of the company, MP values each and every one of its employees, giving the company more of a family feel, making us strong, viable, and successful.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Maple Lake, MN, US

Year founded

1973

Social media

Facebook

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