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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

One to Two years (1-2) experience operating backhoe * High school diploma or equivalent desired * Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications: * Valid MA State Hoisting License 2A is required.

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Backhoe Operator information

See Boston, MA salary details

$35.9K

$61.9K

$95.6K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Boston, MA is $61,897.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $66,800.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Boston, MA are:
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 82% Physical, and 18% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $61,897 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Backhoe Operator - Concrete/Restoration

Backhoe Operator - Concrete/Restoration

Peak Utility Services Group

Wrentham, MA • On-site

$51K - $67K/yr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Backhoe Operator - Concrete/Restoration

Peak Utility Infrastructure is an integrated engineering and construction company that serves the Electric, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications industries. We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services, including repair, replacement, maintenance, and installation of natural gas, telecommunications, and electric infrastructure through our operating subsidiaries: SiteWise, Kelly Cable, Riley Brothers, 5 Star Electric, Superior Hydrovac and Superior Pipeline Services.

Position Title: Operator - Backhoe

Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

Classification: Non-Exempt

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Operates, maneuvers, and navigates heavy equipment (backhoes)
  • Uses either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes
  • Inspects equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects
  • Uses relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards and communicates abnormal working conditions to appropriate parties
  • Provides mid-level laborer functions including hand digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety sensitive utility construction sites
  • Proficient with utility print and map reading
  • Has performed at least 6 months of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini); knows all safety regulations with basic operating skills
  • Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs
  • Exposes underground utilities manually
  • Conducts post-job quality checks
  • Cleans, checks fluid levels and conducts a visual inspection of equipment to assure your equipment is performing at optimum safety and the required paperwork
  • Communicates with supervisor daily to turn in required paperwork
  • Perform other tasks as required

Success Factors:

  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse climatic conditions.
  • Ability to lift up to 80 lbs multiple times during a work shift
  • Ability to climb, dig, work in tight spaces, on uneven surfaces, walking, stooping, and kneeling
  • Ability to understand and follow specific oral and written instructions
  • Ability to work well independently and as a part of a team with co-workers
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle, criminal background check, and comply with drug-free workplace policy
  • English usage sufficient to keep records, place orders, and prepare simple narrative reports
  • Willingness and ability to learn additional skills

Experience and Education:

  • One (1+) plus years of experience in backhoe/mini excavator operation is required
  • One (1+) plus years of experience digging and working around restoration and underground utilities is required
  • Two (2+) plus years of demonstrated experience in dry utilities preferred
  • Experience reading basic prints and Underground Facility Location Sketch is preferred
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-to-year basis

Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications:

  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid State of Residence Driver's License is required within two weeks of employment.
  • Candidates must pass criminal and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) background checks and pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Notes:

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.