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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO)

Durham, NC · On-site

$49.03K - $59.62K/mo

Backhoe, Track-hoe, Skid-Steer, Excavator, Rubber Tire Loader, Front-end Loader and/or tractor with ... Operating construction equipment including, but not limited, to backhoes, excavators, dump trucks ...

Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO)

Durham, NC · On-site

$49.74K - $77.17K/yr

Backhoe, Track-hoe, Skid-Steer, Excavator, Rubber Tire Loader, Front-end Loader and/or tractor with ... Operating construction equipment including, but not limited, to backhoes, excavators, dump trucks ...

Backhoe, Track-hoe, Skid-Steer, Excavator, Rubber Tire Loader, Front-end Loader and/or tractor with ... operating difficulty. This job works in close proximity to high voltage wires & other lines often ...

... backhoe, front end loader, dozer, excavator, and/or motor grader in a safe and efficient manner ... Operator has a thorough understanding of construction surveying, including grade control and ...

... backhoe, front end loader, dozer, excavator, and/or motor grader in a safe and efficient manner ... Operator has a thorough understanding of construction surveying, including grade control and ...

GROUNDS EQUIP OPERATOR, SR

Durham, NC · On-site

$18.32 - $21.35/hr

As the Grounds Equipment Operator , you'll be a vital part of a collaborative team that supports ... Operate backhoe to dig ditches and holes. Operate farm-type tractor to maintain lawns, roads, walks ...

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Showing results 1-20

Backhoe Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$32.1K

$55.4K

$85.5K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Raleigh, NC is $55,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,200.00 and $59,800.00 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 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 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 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.

Landfill Equipment Operator

Landfill Equipment Operator

GFL Environmental

Holly Springs, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


GFL Environmental rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 162 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 70 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Safely operate and/or have the ability to operate various equipment including forklift, bobcat, backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material.
At GFL our goal is to invest in our people and provide opportunities to grow for life!
Our employees are affectionately known as team green, a name that unites us all under our shared purpose of providing sustainable solutions to enable our customers and communities to be GREEN FOR LIFE!
  • 15 days of paid time off
  • 4 medical plan options including an HSA with employer contribution & match program
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) with an employer match
  • Paid holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program with free counseling services.

Overview:
GFL Environmental is one of North America's leading waste management companies, proudly making communities cleaner, safer, and happier through first-class service. Working for GFL is more than a job - it's an opportunity to grow in your career, make new friends, and make a difference each day.
Key Responsibilities:
• Operate necessary equipment to bale and load waste material into trailers.
• Perform inspection and maintenance checks of equipment daily.
• Grease/lubricate equipment, check and add fluids to equipment daily
• Operator will steer, guide and or drive the above listed equipment at the assigned site, if the equipment is used at the particular site(s) using steering wheel, shifters, levers, buttons and pedals.
• Operator will substitute for another operator if someone is absent from the work crew or as needed/required.
• Operator will clean trash from tracks of heavy equipment by pulling and or cutting material away from tracks and gear mechanisms at least once daily or more if needed.
• Operator will use a two-way radio to communicate with co-workers in the field and or office regarding work activities, Requirements: and priorities for the work day.
• Conform in all respects with applicable federal, state/provincial and local laws, regulations, ordinances and other orders and to all company policies, procedures and directives from supervisors.
• Maintain appearance of the grounds and facility.
• Attend safety and branch meetings.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as required or requested by management.
Requirements:
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) desired, but not required.
• Completion of forklift certification.
• Ability to obtain Transfer Station / Landfill Operations Certification if needed.
• Operate excavator, forklift/bobcat, front-loader, baler, backhoe, track hoe, bull dozer, compactor and/or steer equipment, safety shoes and eye protection.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Demonstrate ability to follow instructions and work under little supervision.
• Apply commonsense understanding to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in a standardized setting
• Ability to perform the four basic functions of math and to be able to read and understand the meaning of equipment gauges.
• Must have the ability to read, speak, understand and write the English language.
• Must be able to frequently lift/push/pull up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds.
• Work in outdoor environment 100% of the time.
Physical/Mental Demands:
• Ability to stand, sit, walk, use hands and fingers, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, talk, hear, climb, balance, taste, and smell.
• Visual Requirements: include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to frequently lift/push/pull up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds.
Working Conditions:
• Constantly exposed to loud noise, humidity, outside weather conditions, moving mechanical parts, vibration, toxic and caustic chemicals, fumes and airborne particles
• Work environment is usually moderate to loud.
• Work in outdoor environment inside heavy equipment covered cab, but exposed to all weather conditions, except lightning storms.
• Occasionally work in high precarious places.
• Work in outdoor environment 100% of the time.
#GFLTalent
We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
GFL is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact myworkdayrecruitment@gflenv.com
Please note that GFL does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Valid work authorization in the country where the job is located is required. Successful candidates will be required to provide valid documentation confirming their eligibility to work in the country where the job is located prior to their start date.
This hiring process may utilize machine-based systems to assist in screening and assessing applicants. Final selection decisions are made by our recruitment team.

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