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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

WESTERN PAVING, INC.

Equipment Operator

Mapleton, UT

$18 - $24.50/hr

We are now Hiring for Operator Positions. We provide competitive pay and Insurance Benefits Options ... Experience in the following is preferred: -Skid Steer W/ Various Attachments -Backhoe -Front End ...

Payson City

Equipment Operator I, II or III

Payson, UT · On-site

$24.36 - $42.13/hr

... backhoe or loader by an accredited training organization (i.e. Utah LTAP within six month of hire ... Equipment Operator II : Career progression, employee moves to Equipment Operator II when the ...

Hyrum City

Water Maintenance Operator II or III

Hyrum, UT · On-site

$21.75 - $33.80/hr

Hyrum City is currently accepting resumes for a full-time Water Maintenance Operator II or III. To ... backhoe, excavator, valve exerciser, vac truck, trencher, etc. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Payson City

Equipment Operator I, II or III

Payson, UT · On-site

$24.36 - $42.13/hr

... backhoe or loader by an accredited training organization (i.e. Utah LTAP within six month of hire ... Equipment Operator II : Career progression, employee moves to Equipment Operator II when the ...

Payson Utah

Equipment Operator I, II or III

Payson, UT · On-site

$26.33 - $42.13/hr

... backhoe or loader by an accredited training organization (i.e. Utah LTAP within six month of hire ... Equipment Operator II : Career progression, employee moves to Equipment Operator II when the ...

JWright Companies

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator / Laborer

Murray, UT · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Trackhoe, Dozer, Scraper, Grader - Blade, Backhoe, Loader operators should all apply. Commercial Drivers License (CDL) holders a plus. Excellent equipment and very competitive wages and benefits.

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Backhoe Operator information

See Utah salary details

$30K

$51.8K

$80.1K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Utah is $51,847.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $56,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the going rate for backhoe work per hour?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates may be higher for operators with specialized skills or certifications and can vary based on whether the work is freelance or through a company.

How much do backhoe operators make?

Backhoe operators in New York City typically earn an average hourly wage of $20 to $30, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they work on.

Is 50 too old to become a heavy equipment operator?

Backhoe operators can be of various ages, and age is not a strict barrier to entering the profession. Physical fitness, relevant skills, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are more important factors; many employers value experience and reliability over age. As long as the individual can meet the physical demands and obtain necessary licenses, becoming a backhoe operator at age 50 is feasible.

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.

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 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.

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.

More about Backhoe Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Utah? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Utah are:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Utah? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Utah are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in UT? For Backhoe Operator jobs in UT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Utah as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,847 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Seasonal Streets Operator

Seasonal Streets Operator

Eagle Mountain City

Eagle Mountain, UT • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Temporary

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

40 hours per week May- September or October
$16-18 per hour, depending on experience
GENERAL PURPOSE
Performs a variety of entry level semi-skilled duties related to the construction, installation, maintenance and repair of city streets.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under general supervision of the Street Supervisor or Street Maintenance Operator II.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
None.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Assists streets crew in the construction and maintenance of various ongoing and seasonal projects; operates various vehicles to transport crew and/or materials.
Performs demanding physical labor using hand tools; moves materials, i.e., asphalt, dirt, concrete debris, etc.; loads vehicles with materials for deposit at work sites or waste disposal sites.
In a learning capacity, operates a variety of equipment such as backhoe, forklift, crack sealer, sweeper, etc.
Operates a variety of hand tools and small power equipment such as jack hammers, roller, compressors, packing machine, cleans tools and equipment to assure proper working order.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  1. Education and Experience:

  1. Graduation from high school;

AND
  1. No experience necessary;

  1. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Some knowledge of operating basic manual and power tools; the occupational hazards and safety precautions of work in the public right-of-way; hazards common to heavy equipment operation.
Ability to perform heavy physical labor; communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; tolerate weather extremes in the work environment.
  1. Special Qualifications:

Suggested to have a valid commercial driver's license.
Must be able to lift 75-100 pounds.
Street Seasonal Laborer, page 2
  1. Work Environment:

Tasks require variety of physical activities, generally involving heavy muscular strain, such as walking, standing, stooping, sitting, reaching and lifting. Talking, hearing and seeing essential to performing required job functions. Common eye, hand, finger dexterity necessary to performance of job duties. Mental application utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions. Daily local travel required in normal course of job performance. Ongoing exposure to changing weather conditions.

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