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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Midland, TX (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Equipment Operator I

Midland, TX · On-site

Equipment Operators perform site reconnaissance and confirm locations have met all utility ... For example, Excavator Certification, Bulldozer Certification, Front End Loader and Backhoe ...

TERRACON

Equipment Operator I

Midland, TX · On-site

Demonstrate competency in the operation of at least one type of mobile equipment operated by Terracon e.g., Excavator, Dozer, Motor Graders, Skid Steer, Backhoe, Wheel Loader, Compactor and Water ...

City of Midland

Equipment Operator III

Midland, TX · On-site

$55K/yr

... Backhoe Loader Tractor Mowers All other equipment as assigned Operate a transit / level to set ... operated. Keep jobsite and vehicle/equipment in order. Inspect and maintain assigned equipment.

Loram

Machine Operator 1 - SPS

Midland, TX · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, valid Driver's License Slots - 1+ year experience Heavy equipment operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or alike). Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment ...

City of Midland, TX

Equipment Operator III

Midland, TX · On-site

$55K/yr

Backhoe Loader * Tractor Mowers * All other equipment as assigned * Operate a transit / level to ... Ability to read and understand vehicle operator's manual * Ability to read and use city maps and ...

Midland County, TX

Equipment Operator II

Midland, TX · On-site

$53K/yr

... backhoe, rough carpenter, and tractor shredder. * Performs welding duties, including welding parts ... And still perform the duties of Equipment Operator I. * Regular and timely attendance is required.

Midland County

Equipment Operator II

Midland, TX

$53K/yr

... operator I runs. Operates rollers, dump trucks, rough loader, and rough dozer for county road ... backhoe, rough carpenter, and tractor shredder. Performs welding duties, including welding parts ...

Axis Energy Administration LLC

Snubbing Operator

Odessa, TX

$16 - $21/hr

The Snubbing Operator safely operates, coordinates, and supports snubbing unit activities at well sites, including rig-up, rig-down, equipment operation, routine inspection, maintenance support, crew ...

AXI Education Solutions

Snubbing Operator

Odessa, TX · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

The Snubbing Operator safely coordinates and oversees snubbing units at the well sites. This individual will have an active state-issued Class A or B CDL with air brakes endorsement. The Operator ...

Gulf Coast Authority

OPERATOR I

Odessa, TX · On-site

$24.42 - $31.46/hr

Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License. 6.0 Physical requirements Ability to sit while operating heavy equipment. Ability to complete paperwork. Ability to stand, walk, kneel, crouch/stoop, squat ...

Gulf Coast Authority

OPERATOR I

Odessa, TX

$24.42 - $31.46/hr

Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License. 6.0 Physical requirements Ability to sit while operating heavy equipment. Ability to complete paperwork. Ability to stand, walk, kneel, crouch/stoop, squat ...

EnergiPersonnel

Be Seen First

Facility Operator

Odessa, TX · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

The Facility Operator at our frac hub in Odessa, Texas, plays a crucial role in maintaining safe and efficient operations involving chemical handling and equipment management. This position requires ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Midland, TX

Backhoe Operator information

See Midland, TX salary details

$32.4K

$55.9K

$86.4K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Midland, TX is $55,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,700.00 and $60,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How much money can I make with a backhoe operator?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with additional training or specialized equipment may earn higher wages, especially in construction or heavy civil projects.

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.

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.

More about Backhoe Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Midland, TX? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Midland, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Midland, TX? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Midland, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Midland, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Midland, TX are:
What cities near Midland, TX are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities near Midland, TX with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Midland, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,915 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Equipment Operator I

TERRACON

Midland, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description

Terracon's Construction Services consist of but are not limited to, the execution of environmental remediation, fuel service station closure, and renewable energy construction (testing, installation, and maintenance), which will be executed by Terracon-employed equipment operators and support staff. Equipment Operators perform site reconnaissance and confirm locations have met all utility clearance requirements. Work may include the operation of excavators, backhoes, dozers, skid steers, graders, loaders, scrapers, compactors, earth-hauling equipment, and/or other mobile equipment. Competency will be established and demonstrated in each specific piece of equipment operated. Services will take place in the field on Terracon or client project sites. 

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Our national environmental team helps our clients do the right thing for their projects, and for our planet. Our professionals include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers, geologists, historians, industrial hygienists, planners, and scientists. Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and processes to address environmental challenges and move their projects forward as quickly, safely, and sustainably as possible. With services including site assessment, planning and permitting including cultural and natural resources, sustainability and resiliency, regulatory compliance, and industrial hygiene and safety, we're at the forefront of helping clients succeed and communities thrive.Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 1 year of Laborer experience.
  • Basic Computer knowledge.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • OSHA trenching and excavation training, including guidelines, requirements, and regulations or ability to obtain after hire.
  • Soil Composition Testing, Trench Safety, Excavation Safety, Damage Prevention, Pipeline Support during excavation activities. Backfill Testing.
  • Completion of Terracon Mobile Equipment Operator Competency training after hire.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.
  • Ability to obtain certification or licensure in field of expertise. For example, Excavator Certification, Bulldozer Certification, Front End Loader and Backhoe Certification
Preferred Certification:
  • For Remediation Construction projects, 40-Hour HAZWOPER certificate, TWIC and DOT medical card preferred.
  • CDL driver's license is a plus
  • Demonstrate competency in the operation of at least one type of mobile equipment operated by Terracon e.g., Excavator, Dozer, Motor Graders, Skid Steer, Backhoe, Wheel Loader, Compactor and Water Truck.
  • Prepare daily field reports for current projects.
  • Maintain operational integrity of equipment by performing pre-shift and post-shift safety inspections and complete daily equipment reports. Take prompt actions to facilitate any repairs needed to safely operate the equipment. Exercise stop work authority if the equipment cannot be made safe to operate.
  • Regularly communicate with project/site management to provide up to date information on work status.
  • Meet with utility companies to verify that locations are clear of underground utilities and conduct any required inspections.
  • Attend and participate in project meetings, including client and subcontractor meetings.
  • Identify existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate the hazards.
  • Drive a vehicle such as a Ford F-150 or equivalent.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines, and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

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