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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

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Dirt Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Operates Heavy and Light Equipment = Backhoe, track hoe, packers/rollers, sweepers, graders, skid ... Operator 2) * Operates Heavy and Light Equipment = Fuel Truck Driver, backhoe, track hoe, packers ...

CAM Industrial Solutions

Dirt Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$30.25/hr

Operates Heavy and Light Equipment = Backhoe, track hoe, packers/rollers, sweepers, graders, skid ... Operator 2) * Operates Heavy and Light Equipment = Fuel Truck Driver, backhoe, track hoe, packers ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe, front end loader, road grader ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe, front end loader, road grader ...

Cajun Industries

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

More information about this job Overview The Dirt and Finish Operator should be certified and have the ability to operate the following equipment when required: track hoe, rubber tire backhoe ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Louisiana

Backhoe Operator information

See Louisiana salary details

$28.2K

$48.7K

$75.3K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Louisiana is $48,701.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,800.00 and $52,600.00 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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What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Louisiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Louisiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in LA?

For Backhoe Operator jobs in LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,701 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR III - BACKHOE (2373)

Jefferson Parish Government

New Orleans, LA • On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title

Backhoe Operator - Equipment Operator III

Purpose of Announcement

Examination is announced to supplement the existing employment list to fill five (5) current East Jefferson vacancies in the Departments of Water (3 vacancies) and Parks & Recreation (2 vacancies) and eight (8) current West Jefferson vacancies in the Departments of Sewerage (1 vacancy), Water (6 vacancies), and Streets (1 vacancy). This employment list will also be used for future East and West Jefferson vacancies in various Departments as they occur.

Kind of Work

The purpose of this position is to safely and efficiently operate and maintain the Backhoe and other assigned equipment according to existing safety programs, work standards, and procedures. Besides operating the Backhoe equipment, the operator will be required to inspect and maintain the equipment's tire inflation; crankcase oil levels; leaks (oil, fuel, water, etc.); coolant in radiator; lights and signal devices; clear and clean glasses, lamp lenses, mirrors; and functioning windshield wipers.

The operator will also be responsible for loading and unloading the backhoe onto trailer for transportation. Operator may be required to perform laboring work with or without hand tools when not operating equipment. Performs related work as required.

Depending on the other assigned vehicles for a particular position, Equipment Operator III - Backhoe Operators may be required to possess a valid Louisiana Standard (Class E), Chauffeur's (Class D), or Commercial (Classes A, B, C) Driver's License in order to perform the tasks associated with the position. The current vacancies all require driving of a Parish vehicle necessitating a Class A license, thus possession of a valid Class A driver's license and acceptable driving record will be given preference.

Minimum Qualifications For Admission to Examination

Applicants must meet one (1) of the following: I. Current employment with Jefferson Parish PLUS completion of the Jefferson Parish Backhoe Safety Training Program or certification by an appointing authority that the applicant has been adequately trained to operate a Backhoe. II. Verifiable, satisfactory experience operating a Backhoe. III. Completion of an approved training course in operating a Backhoe. NOTE: Copies of licenses and certificates awarded for completion of training should be submitted with the application.

Kind of Examination

(ENTRANCE AND PROMOTIONAL) NON-COMPETITIVE - All persons meeting the stated requirements on this announcement will be issued an Employment Eligibility letter for Backhoe Operator - Equipment Operator III and have their name forwarded to the appointing authority when vacancies arise. JOB POSTING NO. 2373B-03A DATE: 02/22/08 AMENDED:08/07/26

Application Offices

East Jefferson: Room 206, 1221 Elmwood Park Blvd. Jefferson, LA 70123

West Jefferson: Suite 3100, 200 Derbigny St. Gretna, LA 70053

Apply