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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Chicken Ranch Casino

CUP Operator

Jamestown, CA · On-site

$28.25/hr

CUP Operator Position Summary As a Team Member of the Engineering team, the CUP Operator is a CRCR Ambassador and takes personal ownership to ensure all of their actions are in the best interest of ...

New

Chicken Ranch

CUP Operator

Jamestown, CA · On-site

$28.25/hr

CUP Operator Position Summary As a Team Member of the Engineering team, the CUP Operator is a CRCR Ambassador and takes personal ownership to ensure all of their actions are in the best interest of ...

Ring Container Technologies

Operator I

Modesto, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Perform necessary Operator Checklists. * Perform data collection of quality measurements as directed. Correct any deviations from quality standards in order to produce product within specifications.

Ring Container Technologies

Operator I

Modesto, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Perform necessary Operator Checklists. * Perform data collection of quality measurements as directed. Correct any deviations from quality standards in order to produce product within specifications.

Vantedge Medical

NC Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

NC Operator Full-time / Permanent Day, Swing, and Weekend Shifts Available Pay Range : $22 - $32 DOE *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vander-Bend is a U.

Vantedge Medical - VDB

NC Operator

Stockton, CA

$22 - $32/hr

Description NC Operator Full-time / Permanent Day, Swing, and Weekend Shifts Available Pay Range : $22 - $32 DOE *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vander ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Modesto, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Experience operating other material handling equipment such as Order (Cherry) Picker, Sit-down, Clamp, Electric Pallet Jack is also a plus. Position:1st(First)Shift Forklift Operator Shift:Tues-Fri 6 ...

New

DHL

Forklift Operator

Modesto, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Experience operating other material handling equipment such as Order (Cherry) Picker, Sit-down, Clamp, Electric Pallet Jack is also a plus. Position:1st (First) Shift Forklift Operator Shift:Tues-Fri ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Lathrop, CA

$23.25/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

Modesto, CA

$23.25/hr

Experience operating other material handling equipment such as Order (Cherry) Picker, Sit-down, Clamp, Electric Pallet Jack is also a plus. Position:1st(First)Shift Forklift Operator Shift:Tues-Fri 6 ...

New

BrightView

Enhancement Crew Lead (ELC Manteca)

Manteca, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Experience running equipment (skid steer, excavator, backhoe, etc.) * Able to read architectural ... Be at least 18 years old (21 if operating company provided vehicles) * Possess strong stamina and ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$23.25/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

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$23.25/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 ...

Scotts Miracle-Gro

Forklift Operator

Linden, CA · On-site

$24.15/hr

The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a forklift or other equipment to move, locate, relocate, stack, and count merchandise. The Operator is accountable for the safe and efficient ...

MHX, LLC Corporate

Transload Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Title Transload Operator EOE Statement MHX,LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, veteran status, or on the basis of ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Modesto, CA

Backhoe Operator information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$34.8K

$60.1K

$92.8K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Modesto, CA is $60,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,100.00 and $64,900.00 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 popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Modesto, CA? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Modesto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,085 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Livermore, CA

$17 - $24/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Roto-Rooter rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

199th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Overview

Excavator Operator

Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.

If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator, especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements at our East Bay branch, located in Livermore, CA.  The average earnings for this position are between $75,000-$100,000, depending on experience. 

Responsibilities
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job sites.
  • Load, unload and secure equipment on transport trailers according to guidelines.
  • Follow OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with a crew to efficiently complete excavation work on various projects.
  • Interact with customers as needed, providing excellent customer service and addressing their requirements professionally.
  • Maintain excavation equipment and gather all necessary equipment from the branch and/or rental companies to ensure smooth operations during excavation tasks.
  • Perform excavation work in confined spaces and open trenches, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Locate and arrive at job sites promptly, ensuring safe driving and operation of service vehicles between locations.
Requirements
  • Essential requirement: Construction experience in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Mandatory requirement: Possession of a current CDL Class A license for this position.
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, as required for the role.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines.

Service technicians are paid an hourly rate of $17.00 to $24.00 during training. After training, they are paid an hourly rate at or above the minimum wage for all hours worked. The hourly pay rate may vary, depending on whether the pay is for base pay paid at the employee's base hourly rate (minimum wage), or administrative pay for administrative hours worked (between minimum wage and $77.92) . Service technicians also have the potential to earn commissions at the rate of 16-22% of revenue depending on the revenue category.  Commissions ranging from $10 to $139 can also be earned for selling products and treatments.

Benefits

At Roto-Rooter we believe our greatest investment is in our employees.  We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That's why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:

  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout our 86 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are a great fit at our company.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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Employment Type: OTHER

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