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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Fresno, CA (NOW HIRING)

City of Kingsburg, CA

Maintenance Worker III

Kingsburg, CA · On-site

$56K - $68K/yr

... operating heavy power-driven construction equipment, such as a motor grader. This position is also ... Experience with heavy machinery such as; backhoe, forklift, and tractor. Licenses/Certificates:

Bee Sweet Citrus

Truck Driver

Fowler, CA · On-site

Bee Sweet Citrus Inc. is a family owned and operated company, providing over 10 different varieties ... In addition to hauling spray material, knowledge of backhoe, construction, skid steers and forklift ...

Bee Sweet Citrus

Truck Driver

Fowler, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Bee Sweet Citrus Inc. is a family owned and operated company, providing over 10 different varieties ... In addition to hauling spray material, knowledge of backhoe, construction, skid steers and forklift ...

PrideStaff

Forklift Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Forklift Operator We are looking for an experienced forklift operator to move packages and material around our facilities. You will be operating a forklift with the utmost care to ensure efficiency ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$21.50/hr

The position is a combination of equipment operator (30-90% depending on production peak times) but will also require the employee to perform material handling, loose case picking and loading ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$21.50/hr

The position is a combination of equipment operator (30-90% depending on production peak times) but will also require the employee to perform material handling, loose case picking and loading ...

DHL

Forklift Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$21.50/hr

The position is a combination of equipment operator (30-90% depending on production peak times) but will also require the employee to perform material handling, loose case picking and loading ...

PayCruit, LLC

Be Seen First

Forklift Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Forklift Operators - Fresno, CA We are currently hiring experienced Forklift Operators for a full-time warehouse/manufacturing opportunity in Fresno. Job Duties: * Operate sit-down electric and ...

Wawona Frozen Foods

Forklift Operator

Clovis, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLEThe role of a forklift operator with Wawona Frozen Foods provides a wide range of activities including moving product, dumping product, stacking product, moving or transporting product ...

Wawona Frozen Foods

Forklift Operator

Clovis, CA

$17 - $19.75/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLE The role of a forklift operator with Wawona Frozen Foods provides a wide range of activities including moving product, dumping product, stacking product, moving or transporting ...

Wawona Frozen Foods

Forklift Operator

Clovis, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLE The role of a forklift operator with Wawona Frozen Foods provides a wide range of activities including moving product, dumping product, stacking product, moving or transporting ...

Wawona Frozen Foods

Forklift Operator

Clovis, CA · On-site

$17 - $19.75/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLE The role of a forklift operator with Wawona Frozen Foods provides a wide range of activities including moving product, dumping product, stacking product, moving or transporting ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: • Demonstrates safe work practices ...

Ulta Beauty

Equipment Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

When not operating equipment, the role may also support general warehouse functions throughout the distribution center such as shipping, receiving, stocking, order fulfillment, packing, sorting ...

XPO

Forklift Operator

Fresno, CA

$24.37 - $29.93/hr

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short video to see a day-in-the-life on an XPO dock. Minimum qualifications: * Be at least 18 years of ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: • Demonstrates safe work practices ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Fresno, CA

Backhoe Operator information

See Fresno, CA salary details

$32.8K

$56.5K

$87.4K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Fresno, CA is $56,548.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,200.00 and $61,100.00 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

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For Backhoe Operator jobs in Fresno, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Cities near Fresno, CA with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:

Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Fresno, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,548 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Foreman/Operator-Underground

Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation

Selma, CA

$24 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation has been a utilities contractor for the past 46+ years. This includes substructure: (Plowing, trenching, excavating, directional boring, rodding, pulling, paving, conduit and cable placing, fiber placing and pulling and manhole placement).

Our corporate office is in Paso Robles, and we have a secondary office operating in Selma. Our area of work includes the central part of California, the coast to the Nevada border; from San Jose to Los Angeles, Bakersfield to Sacramento and the Lancaster to Bishop area.

Job Requirements
  • Hard working with strong work ethic.
  • Strong organizational, people, and time management skills.
  • Able to lead jobs and laborers safely and timely.
  • Able to meet attendance & punctuality requirements.
  • Display endurance, the ability to work in all weather conditions.
  • Comply with drug / alcohol free policy
  • Must be willing to travel (Leo Tidwell Excavating Corp. pays for hotels and per diem when out-of-town work is required).
Job Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Class A license preferred
  • Roadside construction experience.
  • Experience with concrete and/or asphalt work.
  • Experience managing teams or individuals.
  • Must have a full understand of all phases of underground construction (setting, manholes, trenching, tie-ins, etc.).
  • Must be able to read, decipher, understand plans/construction drawings.
  • Must be able to effectively communicate with project managers, clients, city/county/state inspectors, vendors, suppliers, and sub-contractors.
  • Preferred underground experience of 2 years or more.
Responsibilities for the Role
  • Job requires effective communication with crew
  • Complete Daily field reports
  • Complete Daily job task analysis forms
  • Conduct Safety meetings
Physical Demands of the job
  • Push, pull, reach, and carry objects such as tools, materials and equipment weighing up to 90 lbs.
  • Load and unload tools and equipment on truck.
  • Ability to ascend and descend ladders.
  • All work is performed at remote locations; driving and sitting are required.
  • All work is outdoors, subject to inclement weather conditions.
  • Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl while performing work.
  • Must be able to stand or walk for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to operate or work around heavy equipment and machinery.
  • Must be able to work in small/confined areas.
  • Must be able to maintain visual and audible contact with other crewman and all moving or stationary persons/vehicles/objects to ensure safe coordination of movement.
  • Must be able to work while wearing safety boots, safety glasses, hardhat, and any applicable safety gear.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Compensation will be hourly based on experience.
  • 4-10-hour work days (Mon-Thurs typically)
  • Full-time employment
  • Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation does offer medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation also offers a retirement benefit.

Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.