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Backhoe Operator Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

ARS

Plumbing Excavation Crew Helper

Tinton Falls, NJ · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Crew Operator will have backhoe on site to handle the large portion of the excavations. * Breaks concrete to prepare area for digging. * Digs for sewer, water and gas line repair and new installation.

Southeast Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority

Be Seen First

Operator

Cedar Knolls, NJ · On-site

$33.63/hr

Operator Location: Cedar Knolls, NJ (on-site) Status: Full Time (40 hours), Non-exempt Hourly Range: $33.63 Hourly + Overtime Benefits: We offer a competitive salary package, commensurate with ...

Ring Container Technologies

Operator

Springfield, NJ · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Perform necessary Operator Checklists. * Perform data collection of quality measurements as directed. Correct any deviations from quality standards in order to produce product within specifications.

Ring Container Technologies

Operator

Springfield, NJ · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Perform necessary Operator Checklists. * Perform data collection of quality measurements as directed. Correct any deviations from quality standards in order to produce product within specifications.

Sotera Health

Operator

Rockaway, NJ

$17 - $22.25/hr

Reporting to the Operations Manager and taking daily direction from a Shift Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at ...

Sotera Health

Operator

Rockaway, NJ · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Reporting to the Operations Manager and taking daily direction from a Shift Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at ...

Sika AG

Operator

Upper Deerfield Township, NJ · On-site

$20 - $23.84/hr

Ensure proper set-up of materials and good operating condition of the equipment prior to executing batch making processes and to assist as directed with the set-up for incoming shifts. * Complete SAP ...

Sika AG

$20 - $23.84/hr

Ensure proper set-up of materials and good operating condition of the equipment prior to executing batch making processes and to assist as directed with the set-up for incoming shifts. * Complete SAP ...

CentraState Healthcare System

Operator

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$16 - $25.60/hr

The Operator must remain prepared to manage emergency calls at any time, ensuring prompt and accurate communication across the organization. The work schedule is a required 3 shifts per week, Sun ...

CentraState Healthcare System

Operator

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$16 - $25.60/hr

The Operator must remain prepared to manage emergency calls at any time, ensuring prompt and accurate communication across the organization. The work schedule is a required 3 shifts per week, Sun ...

CentraState Healthcare System

Operator

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$16 - $25.60/hr

The Operator must remain prepared to manage emergency calls at any time, ensuring prompt and accurate communication across the organization. The work schedule is a required 3 shifts per week, Sun ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in New Jersey

Backhoe Operator information

See New Jersey salary details

$33.5K

$57.8K

$89.3K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in New Jersey is $57,820.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,200.00 and $62,400.00 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in New Jersey?

The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in New Jersey are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in New Jersey look for?

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

What cities in New Jersey are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs?

Cities in New Jersey with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:

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

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

Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in New Jersey as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,820 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

MIKULA CONTRACTING INC

Clifton, NJ • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Mikula Contracting, Inc., a 79-year-old family-owned and operated business, is seeking an Experienced Heavy Equipment Operator with a Class A CDL license for an immediate opening. Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with various excavation and demolition services.


General Accountability: Heavy Equipment Operator
Operates an excavator, loader, backhoe, bulldozer, and similar heavy machine equipment.
Performs essential maintenance and minor repairs on excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and/or other heavy power equipment.
Locates underground services before performing heavy equipment work.
Monitors operations to ensure all health and safety standards are met.
Aligns machines regarding stakes, markers, guidelines, and/or hand signals of other workers.
Loads and moves dirt, rocks, materials, and/or other equipment.
Drives and maneuvers equipment to remove topsoil, rocks, vegetation, and/or other materials to distribute and level earth or terrain.
Coordinates machine's actions and/or activities for moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.
Performs other duties as assigned or requested.

General Accountability: Class A CDL Truck Driver
A minimum of 1 year of experience driving tandem dump trucks.
Monitors operations to ensure all health and safety standards are met.
Performs other duties as assigned or requested.
**The Company reserves the right to add or change duties anytime.**
Job Qualifications:
License/Certification: Current Class A Commercial Driver's License
Skills:
Must be able to perform essential operations of trucks and/or construction equipment.
Must possess basic knowledge of machines and tools concerning safety, use, and repair.
Must possess knowledge of applicable health and safety standards concerning heavy equipment operation.
Must possess basic knowledge of the language and terminology used in this occupation.
Must possess excellent verbal communication skills.
Must possess excellent interpersonal skills.

Company Description

Mikula Contracting, Inc., a family-owned and operated business, has been servicing all of New Jersey for 78 Years. We provide commercial and residential customers with various excavation, demolition, environmental, trucking, and soil materials services. We are continually expanding our clientele while enhancing our business every day. Throughout the years, Mikula Contracting has withstood the many challenges the volatile construction industry has faced while continuing to grow.