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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Walbec Group

Certified Crane Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for ... Lattice boom and crane crawler proficient, and able to operate production 336 backhoe, Tadano, and ...

Walbec Group

Certified Crane Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for ... Lattice boom and crane crawler proficient, and able to operate production 336 backhoe, Tadano, and ...

Walbec Group

Certified Crane Operator

Milwaukee, WI

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for ... Lattice boom and crane crawler proficient, and able to operate production 336 backhoe, Tadano, and ...

Zenith Inc

Certified Crane Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for ... Lattice boom and crane crawler proficient, and able to operate production 336 backhoe, Tadano, and ...

CableCom LLC

OSP Equipment Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$2.0K/wk

... operating heavy and light construction equipment, including backhoes, front-end loaders, air ... backhoe operation Ability to read and understand prints, maps and construction plans Ability to ...

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Equipment Operator

New Richmond, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

... backhoe's, trackhoe's, skid steers, loaders, plows, bore machines, etc. What you'll do We are ... The Operator is expected to attend and participate in all safety meetings and training. * The ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

Backhoe Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$33.3K

$57.5K

$88.8K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Wisconsin is $57,485.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $62,100.00 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 job complexity. Rates may be higher for specialized skills or union positions, and some operators charge daily or project-based rates instead of hourly. Certification and familiarity with specific equipment can also influence pay rates.

How much money can I make with a backhoe?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages and may receive benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.

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.

Do I need a license to operate a backhoe?

Backhoe operators typically need to obtain a state-issued commercial driver's license (CDL) or a specific operator certification, depending on local regulations. Employers may also require training and certification in equipment operation and safety standards before hiring. Licensing requirements vary by location and the type of work performed.

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.

What is the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in operating large machinery like cranes, bulldozers, or excavators in high-demand industries such as oil and gas or construction. Experienced operators with certifications, advanced skills, and working in remote or high-risk environments tend to earn the highest salaries, which can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on location and experience.
More about Backhoe Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Wisconsin? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in WI? For Backhoe Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 82% Physical, and 18% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $57,485 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Certified Crane Operator

Certified Crane Operator

Walbec Group

Green Bay, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

AboutWalbecGroup

Walbecproduces high-quality construction materials and delivers unparalleled professionaldesign,engineeringand construction services atits six companies, including Payne and Dolan, Northeast Asphalt, Zenith Tech, Parisi, Premier Concrete, and Construction Resources Management.Whether building bridges, stabilizing shorelines, rehabilitating structures, or providing site engineering and construction solutions for solar,Walbecis yourbridge toexpertisein construction and engineering.

With safety and ethics at the core of everything we do, our experienced professionals are hard at work on commercial and industrial sites throughout the Midwest.

The Position:

We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for using machinery to move materials at construction sites.

  • Determine load weights and check them against lifting capacities to prevent overload. Inspect and adjust crane mechanisms or lifting accessories to prevent malfunctions or damage. Inspect cables or grappling devices for wear and install or replace cables, as needed.

  • Direct helpers engage in placing blocking or outrigging under cranes.

  • Load or unload bundles from trucks or move containers to storage bins, using moving equipment.

  • Clean, maintain, and secure all equipment. Assist with repairs as needed.

  • Ensure that proper safety and incident reporting procedures are followed.

Requirements:

  • Valid Driver's license and satisfactory driving record.

  • Class A CDL preferred, but not required.

  • CCO (Certified Crane Operator).

  • High School diploma or GED equivalent is preferred.

  • Must be punctual and dependable.

  • Have the ability to work varied hours including nights, early mornings, and weekends as needed.

  • Be able to tolerate and work in variable weather conditions, and work in dirty and dusty environments.

  • Member of the appropriate trade union or willingness to become a union member are required. Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to assist in that process as needed.

  • Successfully pass or has passed the Operators Union aptitude test when required.

  • Piling and sheeting experience, and prior experience in pile driving, multi-line work, friction crane, and multi-crane lift.

  • Lattice boom and crane crawler proficient, and able to operate production 336 backhoe, Tadano, and HC110 machine.

The Benefits:

  • Our union employees enjoy the quality benefits provided by our union partners. Refer to your CBA with the local trade union for eligibility and benefit information.

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action employer, and it is our practice toprovideequal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants. In addition, it is the policy of the Company tocomply withapplicable federal,stateand local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in each locality in which the Company has employees. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply!

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