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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... operating equipment and vehicles to analyze malfunction, determining repair needs, and assigns ... brooms, backhoe, and front-end loaders. EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: * High school ...

Shop Foreman

Danville, IN · On-site

$30.64 - $36.04/hr

... operating equipment and vehicles to analyze malfunction, determining repair needs, and assigns ... brooms, backhoe, and front-end loaders. EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: * High school ...

POSITION SUMMARY : An Operator is a general laborer that assists with all operations associated with production for Metal Source. REPORTS TO: Crew Supervisor SUPERVISES: N/A ESSENTIAL ...

Operator

Wabash, IN · On-site

$20/hr

Weekly Production Bonus Opportunity The Operator position is a 12 hour rotating shift, with a schedule of work 3, off 2, work 2 and off 3. Hours are either 8am to 8pm or 8pm to 8am. This is a ...

Operator

Huntington, IN · On-site

$20/hr

Weekly Production Bonus Opportunity The Operator position is a 12 hour rotating shift, with a schedule of work 3, off 2, work 2 and off 3. Hours are either 8am to 8pm or 8pm to 8am. This is a ...

An Operator is a general laborer that assists with all operations associated with production for Metal Source. REPORTS TO: Crew Supervisor SUPERVISES: N/A ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: * Furnace ...

Operator

Huntington, IN · On-site

$20/hr

An Operator is a general laborer that assists with all operations associated with production for Metal Source. REPORTS TO: Crew Supervisor SUPERVISES: N/A ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: * Furnace ...

Weekly Production Bonus Opportunity The Operator position is a 12 hour rotating shift, with a schedule of work 3, off 2, work 2 and off 3. Hours are either 8am to 8pm or 8pm to 8am. This is a ...

Highway Worker

Lebanon, IN

$48.05K - $60.09K/yr

Description Serves as Highway Worker for the Highway Department, responsible for operating various ... backhoe, dump truck, snow plow, compaction roller, tractor, jack hammer, skid steer, dirt loader ...

Operator

Bedford, IN · On-site

$20/hr

POSITION SUMMARY : An Operator is a general laborer that assists with all operations associated with production for Metal Source. REPORTS TO: Crew Supervisor SUPERVISES: N/A ESSENTIAL ...

Highway Worker

Lebanon, IN · On-site

$48.05K - $60.09K/yr

... for operating various trucks and heavy equipment to maintain County roads and rights-of-way ... backhoe, dump truck, snow plow, compaction roller, tractor, jack hammer, skid steer, dirt loader ...

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Showing results 1-20

Backhoe Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$31.4K

$54.2K

$83.7K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 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 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 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 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 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:
Horizontal Directional Drilling Foreman

Horizontal Directional Drilling Foreman

Midwest Mole

Greenfield, IN • On-site

$40/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES
  • Working Foreman for Horizontal Directional Drilling crew and related underground utility work in central Indiana and surrounding areas in the Midwest.
  • Operation of Horizontal Directional Drill Machines
  • Operate HDD Locator
  • HDPE Fusion
  • Supervise Mud Mixing
  • Documentation: Safety Meetings, Daily Reports, Time Reporting, Receipts
  • Locate Utilities and generate drill profiles.
  • Water and sewer installation and testing.
  • Connection to mains and service connections.
  • Crew leader able to lead with safety and perform quality work.
  • Solid understanding of trenching and excavation safety.
  • Operate Excavators, Loaders, Skid Steer, Backhoe as needed.
  • Other duties as requested by the supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or two to three years' experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experienced Horizontal Directional Drill Operator
  • Experienced HDD Locator Operator
  • Fusion experience and certification for HDPE
  • Prior experience in underground utility work.
  • Strong independent work ethic with ability to work within a team.
  • Clear and concise communications.
  • Strong sense of urgency, focusing on time.
  • Ability to read plans, specifications, manuals, and schematics.
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Must pass pre-employment DOT physical and medical examination.
  • Class A CDL with Tanker endorsement
  • Meet company's substance abuse testing requirements.
  • Welding experience preferred.
  • Travel Required
  • Drug Free

Job Type: Full Time
Salary: Based on experience
Pay Frequency: Weekly
Employment Equity
Midwest Mole, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability, or any other legally protected status. All applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States.