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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

NCW

Heavy Equipment Operator

Indianapolis, IN

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 ...

Mortenson

Civil Craft Operator - Lebanon

Lebanon, IN · On-site

... 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 ...

Mortenson

Power Operator - Lebanon, IN

Lebanon, IN · On-site

... 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 ...

Loram

Machine Operator 1 - SPS

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, valid Driver's License Slots - 1+ year experience Heavy equipment operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or alike). Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment ...

Loram

Machine Operator 1 - SPS

Terre Haute, IN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, valid Driver's License Slots - 1+ year experience Heavy equipment operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or alike). Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment ...

Loram

Machine Operator 1 - SPS

Evansville, IN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, valid Driver's License Slots - 1+ year experience Heavy equipment operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or alike). Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment ...

Loram

Machine Operator 1 - SPS

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, valid Driver's License Slots - 1+ year experience Heavy equipment operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or alike). Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment ...

Loram

Machine Operator 1 - SPS

North Vernon, IN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, valid Driver's License Slots - 1+ year experience Heavy equipment operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or alike). Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment ...

Charah Solutions Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sullivan, IN · On-site

$18.54 - $27.75/hr

... backhoe or articulated dump truck in a safe and efficient manner. * Load and/or move various ... Minimum one-year experience operating heavy equipment in a construction or similar environment ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 6, 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 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.

How much money can I make with a backhoe operator?

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

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.

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.

More about Backhoe Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Indiana? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in IN? For Backhoe Operator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,193 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup

Fishers, IN • On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Roto-Rooter rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

182nd of 277 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Excavator Operator

If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.

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
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job sites.
  • Load, unload and secure equipment on transport trailers according to guidelines.
  • Follow OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with a crew to efficiently complete excavation work on various projects.
  • Interact with customers as needed, providing excellent customer service and addressing their requirements professionally.
  • Maintain excavation equipment and gather all necessary equipment from the branch and/or rental companies to ensure smooth operations during excavation tasks.
  • Perform excavation work in confined spaces and open trenches, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Locate and arrive at job sites promptly, ensuring safe driving and operation of service vehicles between locations.
Requirements
  • Essential requirement: Construction experience in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Mandatory requirement: Possession of a current CDL Class A license for this position.
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, as required for the role.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines.
Benefits

At Roto-Rooter, we believe our most significant investment is in our employees. We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That's why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:

  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout nearly 100 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are an excellent fit for our company.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Roto-Rooter employees say

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