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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Azuria Water Solutions

Construction Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$21.25 - $27.25/hr

TWIC card preferred * 3 years of construction labor and equipment operating experience, such as auger drill, excavator or backhoe * Experience in cathodic protection installations helpful * Be able ...

ACME Brick Company

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sealy, TX · On-site

Agregado al sistema: 02/07/26 08:42 "Join the Acme Brick Family" HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR FLSA ... Operate Front Loader, Dump Truck, Backhoe, Bull Dozer, Water Truck, Articulating Truck and any ...

Brown & Root

Forklift Operator

La Marque, TX

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown & Root

Crane Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown & Root

Crane Operator

La Marque, TX · On-site

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown and Root

Forklift Operator

La Marque, TX

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown and Root

Crane Operator

Baytown, TX

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown & Root

Crane Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown & Root

Crane Operator

La Marque, TX · On-site

May operate all or some of the following types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown & Root

Crane Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown & Root

Crane Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

Brown & Root

Crane Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

May operate all or some of the follow types of equipment: backhoe, bulldozer, crane, dragline, font ... powered operating equipment. - Interprets hand signals to determine where materials are to be ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Backhoe Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$31.5K

$54.4K

$84K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Houston, TX is $54,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $58,700.00 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

For Backhoe Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:

Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,388 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

GR Birdwell Construction

Pasadena, TX • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Company Overview

Industrial Civil Construction Contractor specializing in structural concrete and sitework/earthwork looking for Heavy Equipment Operators (Backhoe, Excavator, Roller, Dozer, Rough Terrain Forklift, etc.).

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Superintendent/Foreman a Heavy Equipment Operator will carry out assignments related to operation of heavy equipment in relation to the following areas:

Responsibilities and Duties

Is Responsible for Lay-Outs

  • Sets-up and uses a rotating laser to ensure a level grade.
  • Sets-up and uses a Slope laser to ensure a sloping grade.

Is Responsible for Fine Grade

  • Maintains production with fine grade operation such as placement of rock trucks.
  • Ensures proper grade is obtained
  • Determines equipment needed as well as rate of delivery for rock.

Completes Trenching & Pit Excavations

  • Controls and maintains lay-out lines during excavation.
  • Maintains OSHA standards with benching and slopes during and after operation.
  • Determines what type of lay-back or bench is needed for safe working conditions by type of soils.
  • Determines a percentage of spoils to remain for backfill if using on-site materials and places in a manner that is free from wet conditions.
  • Determines how many spoil trucks will be needed for a continuous flow without trucks stacking up or equipment setting.
  • Determines what type of equipment is needed.

Completes Finishing Applications and Hoisting

  • Determines what type of equipment is needed to produce the required compaction.
  • Exercises the proper methods of backfilling in lifts (for example keep lifts level and consistent for proper compaction.)

Benefits and Perks

  • GR Birdwell Construction offers:
    • health care for employee and family and after one year of employment pays employee portion of health care cost
    • accrued paid time off
    • retirement savings plans and
    • opportunities for craft development
Compensation is based on experience

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