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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

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 6, 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.

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:

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.

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Cajun Industries

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Cajun Industries rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

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/maintainer, bulldozer, hoe ram, ross carrier. Must learn and understand all safety hazards related to the work and learn to safely and effectively use or operate work related tools and equipment. Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting.

Responsibilities

*The following are intended as general illustrations of the work in this job class and are not all-inclusive for this position.

  • Read and interpret load charts
  • Interpret hand signals to determine where materials are to be placed
  • Perform minor maintenance or cleaning activities for tools and equipment
  • Perform daily inspections on equipment including checking fluids, refueling, adding fluids, and assessing component wear
  • Report malfunctioning equipment to supervisors
  • Prepare, fine-tune and level surfaces to specifications
  • Assist other craft workers as needed

Qualifications

Physical:  While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee may be required to:

  • Move throughout active construction and project site environments, including areas with uneven terrain, mud, gravel, sand, and other varying surface conditions.
  • Position themselves to inspect work, access materials, equipment, structures, and work areas at ground level, overhead, and in restricted-access locations.
  • Ascend and descend stairs, ladders, scaffolding, and other elevated work surfaces while maintaining safety requirements.
  • Frequently handle, operate, and use hand tools, power tools, equipment, instruments, and materials associated with assigned job duties.
  • Frequently move, transport, position, push, pull, lift, or carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance or mechanical devices where available.
  • Frequently communicate and exchange information with crew members, supervisors, clients, subcontractors, vendors, and others in field and office settings.
  • Understand information presented through written, electronic, verbal, visual, and environmental sources to support safe and effective job performance.
  • Work in a variety of environments, including outdoor settings exposed to heat, cold, rain, humidity, wind, noise, dust, and other weather or site-related conditions.
  • Work in confined spaces, restricted access areas, or elevated locations when required by project needs and in accordance with applicable safety requirements.
  • Perform work activities ranging from sedentary to heavy physical exertion depending on project assignment and operational needs.

 Mental:  While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee may be required to:

  • Communicate and collaborate effectively with crew members, supervisors, clients, subcontractors, vendors, and others.
  • Read, interpret, apply, and communicate work instructions, plans, specifications, company policies, safety requirements, and regulatory standards.
  • Perform mathematical calculations and apply measurement, estimation, and problem solving skills necessary to complete assigned work.
  • Maintain concentration, situational awareness, and attention to detail while working in environments with multiple activities, distractions, and changing priorities.
  • Make timely decisions using sound judgment related to safety, quality, productivity, and project requirements.
  • Observe, evaluate, retain, and apply information necessary to perform assigned duties safely and effectively.
  • Adapt to changing work conditions, schedules, priorities, and operational demands.

 


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