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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Washington City

Storm Water Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$63K/yr

Operator 1) $43,180 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience) Salary: Operator 2) $45,590 ... backhoe; spray, cut, and remove weeds; trim shrubs and trees as necessary to maintain detention ...

Washington City

Storm Water Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Operator 1) $43,180 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience) Salary: Operator 2) $45,590 ... backhoe; spray, cut, and remove weeds; trim shrubs and trees as necessary to maintain detention ...

Draper City

Water System Operator I, II, III

Draper, UT · On-site

... operating vehicles and equipment; flags on-coming vehicles to protect the public and workers; sets ... Operates heavy equipment; including backhoe, loader, excavator, etc. * Maintains all components of ...

Hurricane City, UT

Streets Operator I

Hurricane, UT · On-site

$39K - $57K/yr

HURRICANE CITY Street Operator I Full-time - Salary Range $39,135.20 - $57,779.20 depending on ... backhoe and other similar equipment in the construction, maintenance and repair of various street ...

Washington City

Storm Water Operator I FT

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Operator 1) $43,180 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience) Salary: Operator 2) $45,590 ... backhoe; spray, cut, and remove weeds; trim shrubs and trees as necessary to maintain detention ...

Draper City

Water System Operator I, II, III

Draper, UT · On-site

$21.11 - $42.61/hr

... operating vehicles and equipment; flags on-coming vehicles to protect the public and workers; sets ... Operates heavy equipment; including backhoe, loader, excavator, etc. * Maintains all components of ...

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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.

Heavy Equipment Operator (Gas Division)

Sorensen Companies, Inc.

Syracuse, UT • On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

SCI, a Congruex Company, is looking for aEquipment Operatorto join our construction team. Learn more about our operating unit at www.congruex.com/SCI.

Who is Congruex

Congruex designs and builds broadband and wireless communications infrastructure. The work we do enables everything in the modern world to operate, from healthcare and energy to transportation and social interactions.

We deliver turn-key network solutions under a single platform by aligning our engineering and in-market construction operating units. Our vision is to be the best end-to-end provider of network services in the U.S. and our core values of GRIT connect everything we do.

We are building tomorrow, together. Will you join us?

Your New Job

Job Summary:

Our operating unit provides underground utility services, and we are looking for a Equipment Operatorto join our team.

This position requires organization, timeliness, accuracy and great focus to detail and safety.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Must be able to perform physical labor.
  • Operating Equipment, hand and/or power tools.
  • Survey job site for Blue Stakes, sprinklers, other obstacles, etc. before digging.
  • Load and unload equipment.
  • Back fill and compact trenches.
  • Maintaining Equipment.
  • Working as a team to complete tasks.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

  • Extensive experience 3-5 years minimum on the following equipment: Backhoe
  • Experience Digging around Utilities is REQUIRED.
  • Valid Driver License with a clean driving record.
  • DOT Medical card will be required before eligible to drive a company vehicle.
  • Must have great communication skills.
  • A positive can-do attitude and openness to trying things new ways.
  • GRIT values Guts, Reliability, Innovation, and Teamwork

Desired Skills & Qualifications:

  • Class A CDL is a plus.
  • Hardworking, honest, dependable, some knowledge of construction would be helpful but not necessary.
Why Work At Congruex

No matter what role you play, you are an important part of the One Congruex Family. We offer:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits
  • 401(k) Program with a Company Match
  • 10 paid Holidays
  • Paid Maternity & Parental Leave
  • Paid Basic Life Insurance & Voluntary Options
  • Paid Long & Short Term Disability.
  • Paid Training.
  • The pillars of Congruex culture are GRIT, safety, inclusion, and family.

The Fine Print:

We will determine salary based on skills and experience in relation to the function of the role, as well as equity to employees in similar roles. Some benefits have eligibility criteria. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at-will" employment relationship.