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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Centuri Group, Inc.

Operator

Centerville, UT · On-site

$21 - $26.75/hr

Through our seven primary operating companies- Canyon, Linetec, National, Neuco, NPL, NPL Canada ... Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw ...

Roto-Rooter

Excavator Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator , especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements. Responsibilities

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Beaver, UT · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Offering DAVIS-BACON WAGES for skilled operators! Must have at least 5 years of experience. With ... Ability to proficiently operate three or more types of heavy equipment such as a backhoe, trackhoe ...

Wasatch County

Equipment Operator

Heber City, UT · On-site

$26.90 - $34.47/hr

... backhoe, front-end loader, water wagon, oiling truck, power broom, chipper, roller, tractor, and ... May remove, minimize, and control noxious weeds; including operating weed and tractor mowers ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Utah

Backhoe Operator information

See Utah salary details

$30K

$51.8K

$80.1K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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 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 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 August 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.

Operator

Centuri Group, Inc.

Centerville, UT • On-site

$21 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment such as skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, and track hoe to move earth, equipment, tools, and materials.

  • Load and unload equipment and materials, and perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment.

  • Perform daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections and assist with general labor tasks as needed.

Job description

Who We Are
Centuri Group is a strategic infrastructure services company with over 110 years of history and a bright future. Through our seven primary operating companies- Canyon, Linetec, National, Neuco, NPL, NPL Canada, and Riggs Distler- we partner with regulated utilities to build and maintain the energy network that powers millions of homes and businesses across the U.S. and Canada. Guided by our values and unwavering commitment to serve as long term partners to customers and communities, Centuri's more than 12,000 employees enable our customers to deliver electricity and natural gas safely and reliably. We also know that sustainability and inclusivity are core to our success, and are committed to delivering on both.
As an Equipment Operator, after your paid training, you will operate equipment to safely move earth, equipment, tools, and materials to and from job sites. As a member of your crew team, you will be asked to assist with general labor as needed.
What You'll Do
  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more
  • Load and unload equipment and materials
  • Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment
  • Maintain all industry required Operator Qualifications
  • Perform other tasksas requested by leadership

What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Commercial Driver's License
  • 1+ prior year experience of safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities

What You'll Get
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Employee Discounts
  • Career Development Opportunities
  • 401K w/ Company Match
  • Voluntary Life Insurance and Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Competitive Benefit Package including Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage

Work Environment
  • Work sites are outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions
  • All worksite safety instructions are written and spoken in English; must be fluent in English
  • Work includes prolonged and repeated: lifting (including overhead, up to 50lbs); standing; climbing; kneeling; reaching and feeling; crouching and crawling
  • Flexibility to work various schedules and stay late when necessary with little or no notice
  • Work is performed within the "red zone" of heavy equipment
  • Working safely requires quick/accurate hand-eye coordination and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner

Legal Stuff
  • Pass pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug screens
  • Provide valid US work authorization documents for E-Verify
  • Satisfactory results of pre-employment background check results
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card

Our Commitment to Opportunity
This job description is subject to change at any time. It reflects management's assignment of essential functions, and does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Centuri and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, gender, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. Centuri will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a test or job interview) if so requested.
Centuri is a Department of Transportation regulated employer. Certain safety-sensitive positions are covered under the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, 49 CFR Part 40. It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the company's Drug Free Workplace Policy to use or test positive for marijuana.

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