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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Northville, MI · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Operator will use a two-way radio to communicate with co-workers in the field and or office ... Operate excavator, forklift/bobcat, front-loader, baler, backhoe, track hoe, bull dozer, compactor ...

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Trenton, MI · On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

... backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material. Key ... Operator will steer, guide and or drive the above listed equipment at the assigned site, if the ...

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Dundee, MI · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

... backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material. Key ... Operator will steer, guide and or drive the above listed equipment at the assigned site, if the ...

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Northville, MI · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

... backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material. Key ... Operator will steer, guide and or drive the above listed equipment at the assigned site, if the ...

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Luna Pier, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

... backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material. Key ... Operator will steer, guide and or drive the above listed equipment at the assigned site, if the ...

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Monroe, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

... backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material. Key ... Operator will steer, guide and or drive the above listed equipment at the assigned site, if the ...

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Northville, MI · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

... backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material. Key ... Operator will steer, guide and or drive the above listed equipment at the assigned site, if the ...

DSP Constructors

Operator

Novi, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION An Equipment Operator is responsible for operating machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, crawler and wheeled tractors with dozer attachments, scoop loaders, backhoe loaders ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Coloma, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Must be able to operate multiple peices of equipment , excavator, wheel loader, backhoe, and dozer to mention a few. Should have a driver license. Experience in water main and sewer installation and ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Michigan

Backhoe Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$28.8K

$49.6K

$76.7K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Michigan is $49,639.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $53,600.00 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 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.
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Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,639 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Service Truck Driver/Backhoe Operator

Asphalt Specialists, Inc.

Pontiac, MI • On-site

$46K - $61K/yr

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Service Truck Driver/Backhoe Operator

    • Job Tracking ID: 512455-913132

  • Job Location: Pontiac, MI

  • Job Level: Mid Career (2+ years)

    • Job Type: Full-Time/Regular

  • Date Updated: July 08, 2026

  • Starting Date: July 22, 2019

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Job Description:

Join our team at Asphalt Specialists, LLC., where a legacy of over 30+ years in delivering exceptional asphalt services is fueled by the dedication of our outstanding employees. Our success is thanks to the loyalty and commitment of our employees which have led us to be recognized as one of the premier asphalt companies in southeast Michigan. The service truck drivers with experience operating backhoe will assist the excavation crews. Complete understanding of the excavation, grading, and paving process is necessary.

Experience and Skills:

-Do a post, in-route and per trip daily.

-Valid Class A driver License with no restrictions.

-Operate backhoe and bucket to complete job in a safe and timely manner.

-Perform the daily safety checks of equipment.

-2-3 years’ experience operating backhoe.

-Communicate w dispatchers, other drivers and customers in a professional manor.

-Report mechanical problems to our road call service team.

-Keep truck and equipment clean and tidy.

-Keep a daily drivers log.

-Ably to all DOT regulation & company PPE requirements.

-Show willingness to learn the job and company goals.

-Willing to work weekends and overtime.

-Excellent driving record.

As a backhoe operator, understanding how the machine operates is extremely important. This includes opening and closing the bucket, raising and lowering the boom, and digging, lifting and dumping dirt. The operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and backward and how to use the stabilizers to prevent machine movement while digging.

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