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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Town of Westwood

Mechanic

Westwood, MA

$67K - $79K/yr

Operate specialized and heavy equipment such as backhoe, front-end loader, road sander, asphalt roller and other Public Works vehicles; perform manual labor incidental to operating assigned equipment.

FACILITY MANAGEMENT CORP

Facility Operator

Brockton, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Facility Operator is responsible for maintaining FMC facilities in order to ensure clean, safe and healthy facilities are available. Routine maintenance and janitorial functions of the facility ...

FACILITY MANAGEMENT CORP

Facility Operator

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Facility Operator is responsible for maintaining FMC facilities in order to ensure clean, safe and healthy facilities are available. Routine maintenance and janitorial functions of the facility ...

FACILITY MANAGEMENT CORP

Facility Operator

Plymouth, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Facility Operator is responsible for maintaining FMC facilities in order to ensure clean, safe and healthy facilities are available. Routine maintenance and janitorial functions of the facility ...

FMC Ice Sports

Facility Operator

Natick, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Facility Operator is responsible for maintaining FMC facilities in order to ensure clean, safe and healthy facilities are available. Routine maintenance and janitorial functions of the facility ...

FACILITY MANAGEMENT CORP

Facility Operator

Franklin, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Facility Operator is responsible for maintaining FMC facilities in order to ensure clean, safe and healthy facilities are available. Routine maintenance and janitorial functions of the facility ...

FMC Ice Sports

Facility Operator

Marlborough, MA

$18 - $20/hr

The Facility Operator is responsible for maintaining FMC facilities in order to ensure clean, safe and healthy facilities are available. Routine maintenance and janitorial functions of the facility ...

FMC Ice Sports

Facility Operator

Brockton, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Facility Operator is responsible for maintaining FMC facilities in order to ensure clean, safe and healthy facilities are available. Routine maintenance and janitorial functions of the facility ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator I

Lynn, MA · On-site

$41 - $44/hr

The Operator I operates and maintains water treatment, process and testing equipment in water treatment facility to purify water to meet regulatory requirements. Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Boston, MA

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.
More about Backhoe Operator jobs
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:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Boston, MA? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Boston, MA are:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
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.
Heavy Equipment Operator- Utilities

Heavy Equipment Operator- Utilities

Centuri Construction Group

Southborough, MA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Pay Range: $30.00 - $40.00

Centuri companies consider several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education, training and skills, and geographic location.

Who We Are

Established in 1972, New England Utility Constructors Inc. (NEUCO) has been providing underground utility construction solutions to New England for five decades.  Known for safety, quality, and excellence, NEUCO specializes in pipeline and natural gas distribution construction.  Our well-trained and professional staff aims for excellence on every project. Competitive wages from day one. Paid training and development. Opportunities to advance. At NEUCO, you are part of a team working to support critical utility and energy infrastructure.

NEUCO is looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team!  Heavy Equipment Operators, operate equipment to safely move earth, equipment, tools, and materials. 

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 tasks as requested by leadership 
What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Hoisting license (if working in Massachusetts)
  • 1+ prior year experience of safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities
What You'll Get
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Employee Discounts 
  • Paid Time Off/Vacation  
  • 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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