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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Duke University

GROUNDS EQUIP OPERATOR, SR

Durham, NC

$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 ...

Faulconer Construction Company

Grade Foreman

Cary, NC · On-site

Supervises, coordinates and directs grader, backhoe, loader and other road building operators and/or other site crew personnel in the movement of dirt, trees, rocks and other material in the ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Wake Forest, NC

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations. * Assist with grading, trench preparation, and bedding installation. * Ensure safety protocols and ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Kittrell, NC

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations. * Assist with grading, trench preparation, and bedding installation. * Ensure safety protocols and ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Zebulon, NC

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations. * Assist with grading, trench preparation, and bedding installation. * Ensure safety protocols and ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Raleigh, NC

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations. * Assist with grading, trench preparation, and bedding installation. * Ensure safety protocols and ...

Faulconer Construction

Grade Foreman

Cary, NC · On-site

Supervises, coordinates and directs grader, backhoe, loader and other road building operators and/or other site crew personnel in the movement of dirt, trees, rocks and other material in the ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Butner, NC

$14.50 - $19/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations. * Assist with grading, trench preparation, and bedding installation. * Ensure safety protocols and ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Raleigh, NC

$16.75 - $22/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations. * Assist with grading, trench preparation, and bedding installation. * Ensure safety protocols and ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Durham, NC

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations. * Assist with grading, trench preparation, and bedding installation. * Ensure safety protocols and ...

Vulcan Elements

Operator

Durham, NC

$17 - $22.25/hr

As an Operator on the metals team you will be responsible for the safe and reliable execution of high-temperature metallurgical processes within Vulcan's operations. This is a hands-on operational ...

JBT Marel Corporation

Operator

Apex, NC

$13 - $15.50/hr

MACHINE OPERATOR At JBT Marel, what we do matters , we know that the contribution of our employees leads to the success of our business. Our purpose is to transform the future of food; this guides ...

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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.

More about Backhoe Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
GROUNDS EQUIP OPERATOR, SR

GROUNDS EQUIP OPERATOR, SR

Duke University

Durham, NC

$18.32 - $21.35/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Duke University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

433rd of 529 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Be You.
 
At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Grounds Equipment Operator, you'll be a vital part of a collaborative team that supports the care, maintenance, and preservation of Duke University's diverse landscapes-including our grounds, gardens, golf course, and forests.
 
 
Minimum Requirments
 
 Education

Work requires the ability to understand and follow instructions generally acquired through a partial high school education.


 Experience

Work requires one year experience in grounds equipment operation. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE Ability to work outdoors required.

    Be Bold.   What You'll Do:
  • Operate street sweeper to sweep Duke University streets, roads and parking lots.
  • Operate tractor with front end loader to move dirt, brush, trash and other material and to transplant trees, shrubs and hedges.
  • Operate backhoe to dig ditches and holes. Operate farm-type tractor to maintain lawns, roads, walks, and fairways, building and maintain roads and fire breaks.
  • Operate truck rated at greater than 10,000 pounds gross capacity to haul material in grounds, gardens, golf course and forests maintenance.
  • Perform routine maintenance onequipment as required; determine when equipment is in need of repair and inform appropriate authorities.
  • Perform duties incidental to the work described herein. The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified. 
    Choose Duke.

Duke University provides an Hourly base salary range for this position as USD $18.32 to USD $21.35. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family- friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits

 
  Ready to Make a Difference?
 
Apply now and help us build a stronger, more sustainable, and beautifully maintained Duke University campus.

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.


What Duke University employees say

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About Duke University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US

Year founded

1838

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