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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Mobile, AL (NOW HIRING)

Hankins Transportation

Operator

Mobile, AL

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

The Operator will operate, maintain, and repair high-pressure water blasting equipment and industrial vacuuming equipment necessary to perform the safe and proper removal, containment, transportation ...

Hankins Transportation

Operator

Mobile, AL

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

The Operator will operate, maintain, and repair high-pressure water blasting equipment and industrial vacuuming equipment necessary to perform the safe and proper removal, containment, transportation ...

White-Spunner Construction

Operator

Mobile, AL

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate or control construction equipment, including tractors, bulldozers, backhoes, or excavators, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavations.

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator I

Calvert, AL · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

The Operator I operates and maintains sludge, dewatering treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in an industrial facility to purify water to meet customer specifications and state ...

Veolia

Operator I

Calvert, AL

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

The Operator I operates and maintains sludge, dewatering treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in an industrial facility to purify water to meet customer specifications and state ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator I

Calvert, AL

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

The Operator I operates and maintains sludge, dewatering treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in an industrial facility to purify water to meet customer specifications and state ...

EDW. C. Levy CO.

Operator, LETNA

Calvert, AL

$19 - $22.75/hr

The Equipment/Machine Operators perform all functions as it pertains to processing steel slab surfaces as required by mill surface requirements. The Heavy Equipment Operators perform all functions as ...

AAA USA Inc

Machine Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

AAA USA is actively hiring experienced Machine Operators to support major manufacturing programs in Multiple Locations. We are seeking skilled manufacturing professionals with experience operating ...

Levy

Operator, LETNA

Calvert, AL · On-site

$19 - $22.75/hr

The Equipment/Machine Operators perform all functions as it pertains to processing steel slab surfaces as required by mill surface requirements. The Heavy Equipment Operators perform all functions as ...

THREADED FASTENERS INC

Machine Operator

Semmes, AL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

The Machine Operator receives instructions from the Operations Manager or the Team Lead pertaining to the assignments and expectations for the day. The Machine Operator will be trained on the machine ...

THREADED FASTENERS INC

Machine Operator

Semmes, AL

$14.25 - $17/hr

The Machine Operator receives instructions from the Operations Manager or the Team Lead pertaining to the assignments and expectations for the day. The Machine Operator will be trained on the machine ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Mobile, AL

Backhoe Operator information

See Mobile, AL salary details

$32.7K

$56.5K

$87.3K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Mobile, AL is $56,515.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $61,000.00 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 popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Mobile, AL? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Mobile, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Mobile, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Mobile, AL are:
What cities near Mobile, AL are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities near Mobile, AL with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Mobile, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 85% Physical, and 15% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $56,515 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator I - 007353

Heavy Equipment Operator I - 007353

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL

Full-time

Posted 8 hours ago

University Of South Alabama rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

359th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Information
Position Number 007353 Position Title Heavy Equipment Operator I - 007353 Division Finance and Administration Department 173640 - Grounds Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent, one year of experience in the operation of a variety of heavy equipment in the construction and maintenance fields, and possession of a valid driver's license and maintenance of a driving record sufficient to maintain insurance coverage under the University of South Alabama. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Preferred Qualifications Job Description Summary
The University of South Alabama's Grounds department is seeking to hire a Heavy Equipment Operator I. Interested candidates should apply to be considered.
Essential Functions
These are the job duties required of the position.
Essential Functions
  • Operates solid waste collection truck and other vehicles/motorized equipment throughout campus areas and off campus, as required, following appropriate safety procedures.
  • Loads bagged trash and solid waste from assigned pick-up points into truck and unloads at designated transfer station.
  • Performs preventative maintenance on assigned vehicles and equipment to include checking level of and adding fuel, water, grease, oil, and air, checking brakes and brake fluid levels, changing tires, and cleaning interior and exterior.
  • Operates a loader, backhoe, skid steer, mowers, lull lift, light duty dump truck, and excavator to dig ditches, build berms and swales and loads sand, soil, gravel and rocks on trucks following appropriate safety procedures.
  • Performs tree felling and brush clearing using a variety of equipment to include a chainsaw, hydraulic tree spade, and high speed chipper/grinder.
  • Assists with construction projects to include concrete walks, retaining walls and drainage systems, and assists with grounds maintenance as needed.
  • Travels to various work sites using a University vehicle.
  • Moves equipment and supplies weighing up to 100 pounds with assistance.
  • Regular and prompt attendance.
  • Ability to work schedule as defined and overtime as required
  • Related duties as required.
Posting Information
Number of Vacancies 1 Position End Date (if temporary) Job Open Date 01/30/2026 Job Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants Working Days Monday - Friday Working Hours 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Job Location Main Campus Full-time or Part-Time Full Time Regular or Temporary Regular

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