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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Midwest Mole

HDD Drill Operator

Greenfield, IN · On-site

Directional Drill operator in central Indiana and surrounding areas in the Midwest. * Be willing to ... Operate Excavators, Loaders, Skid Steer, Backhoe as needed. * Other duties as requested by the ...

Midwest Mole

HDD Drill Operator

Greenfield, IN · On-site

Directional Drill operator in central Indiana and surrounding areas in the Midwest. * Be willing to ... Operate Excavators, Loaders, Skid Steer, Backhoe as needed. * Other duties as requested by the ...

Carmeuse Americas

Terminal Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Previous equipment operating experience (e.g., loader, backhoe, skid steer, etc.) is preferred * Working knowledge of material handling systems, including pneumatic, electrical, and mechanical ...

Carmeuse

Terminal Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Previous equipment operating experience (e.g., loader, backhoe, skid steer, etc.) is preferred * Working knowledge of material handling systems, including pneumatic, electrical, and mechanical ...

Carmeuse

Terminal Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Previous equipment operating experience (e.g., loader, backhoe, skid steer, etc.) is preferred * Working knowledge of material handling systems, including pneumatic, electrical, and mechanical ...

Carmeuse

Terminal Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

High School Diploma or GED equivalent required Previous equipment operating experience (e.g., loader, backhoe, skid steer, etc.) is preferred Working knowledge of material handling systems, including ...

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator , especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements. Responsibilities

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator , especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements. Responsibilities

Roto-Rooter

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator , especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements. Responsibilities

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator , especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements. * Operates back-hoe ...

NCW

Heavy Equipment Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Operates heavy machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. May be responsible for routine maintenance or repairs. May ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Indiana

Backhoe Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$31.4K

$54.2K

$83.7K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Indiana is $54,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,200.00 and $58,500.00 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.
More about Backhoe Operator jobs

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Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,193 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Backhoe Operator - Heavy Equipment Operator

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

City of Fort Wayne
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

175th of 851 rated public administrative organizations

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about City of Fort Wayneexternal

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Backhoe Operator - Heavy Equipment Operator

Dig into a career that moves Fort Wayne forward-operate heavy equipment and make a real impact every day!

What You'll Do

  • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, backhoes, skid steers, trenchers, loaders, and more
  • Perform excavations for repair or replacement of water, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer assets
  • Level, grade, and cut swales along roadways
  • Lift, move, and place heavy materials and objects using equipment
  • Chip brush, cut trees, and operate chainsaws and trimmers as required
  • Load and secure equipment onto transport trailers
  • Safely handle and dispose of chemicals

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 3+ years operating heavy equipment preferred
  • Valid Indiana Driver's License; CDL "A" with tanker "N" endorsement required within first 180 days for new hires
  • Certified Component Person: Excavation and Trench (obtain within 90 days)
  • Certified Competent Person: Confined Space (obtain within 90 days)

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl; occasionally lift/move up to 50 lbs
  • Close, distance, peripheral vision and depth perception required
  • Work outdoors in loud environments; hearing protection required
  • Exposure to varying weather conditions and heavy equipment operations
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30am-3:30pm

Why Join Us? Operate heavy machinery, contribute to Fort Wayne's infrastructure, and be part of a skilled team that keeps the city moving.

Equal Opportunity Employer

What City Of Fort Wayne employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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