1

Backhoe Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Who we're looking for: - Operator Who we are: Animal Friends of the Valleys (AFV) is the leading animal shelter for the cities of Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Canyon Lake and Wildomar ...

Carpenter Co has an immediate opening for 2nd shift Operator A in the LMATT department at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for the safe operation of a specific ...

New

Operator A

Riverside, CA · On-site

$25.96/hr

Carpenter Co has an immediate opening for 1st shift Operator A in the LMATT department at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for the safe operation of a specific ...

Operator I

Mira Loma, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19/hr

We are looking for a dedicated Machine operator to join the family! Del Real Foods is a traditional Mexican food manufacturer born out of a family farm. Today, Del Real Food makes tamales, carnitas ...

Operator A

Riverside, CA · On-site

$25.96/hr

Carpenter Co has an immediate opening for 2nd shift Operator A in the LMATT department at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for the safe operation of a specific ...

Track Operator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.40/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Connect Staffing is hiring an experienced Forklift Operator for a stucco distribution center in Fontana, CA. This is a temp-to-hire evening position paying $21.50/hr. In this role, you will operate a ...

Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Forklift Operators N PEROSN INTERVIEW REQUIRED FONTANA CA 92336-1644 United States Shift - 1st (6AM-2:40PM) The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating material handling equipment for the ...

Track Operator

Winchester, CA · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

Forklift Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Forklift Operator The Forklift Operator is responsible for safely operating a variety of powered industrial equipment to support warehouse, shipping, receiving, and inventory operations. The ideal ...

Encapsulator Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... operating procedures Must be reliable and punctual Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO ...

Track Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $18/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

Encapsulator Operator

Ontario, CA

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... operating procedures Must be reliable and punctual Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO ...

Track Operator

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.40/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

JOB SUMMARY The Equipment Operator II is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of multiple types of heavy mobile equipment (including, but not limited to, loaders, excavators, and dozers ...

Operating under moderate supervision, this individual is expected to demonstrate advanced proficiency in material handling, ensure strict compliance with MSHA regulations, and assist in the training ...

Machine Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Description: The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining production machinery to ensure efficient and safe manufacturing operations. This position requires ...

Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$23/hr

FORKLIFT OPERATOR IN FONTANA, CA Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Forklift Operator to join our team in Fontana, California. This individual will be responsible for safely and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Backhoe Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$34.4K

$59.4K

$91.8K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Riverside, CA is $59,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $64,200.00 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.
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
Operator

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Who we’re looking for:
- Operator
Who we are:
Animal Friends of the Valleys (AFV) is the leading animal shelter for the cities of Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Canyon Lake and Wildomar, and small parts of Riverside County. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit providing top-quality animal welfare and animal control services for our client cities. If you are looking for a way to make a difference and not just a job, AFV is exactly what you’re looking for!
What you will be doing:
  • Receiving emergency and non-emergency telephone calls from the public
  • Greet clients warmly and direct incoming phone calls to appropriate departments
  • Log in incoming calls
  • Assist with database entry for licensing, citations, rabies shots and other clerical and administrative work as time permits
  • Page staff members and departments as required to alert them to calls
What you’ll need:
  • Ability to maintain patience, calm and professionalism during high volume, high-stress call volume periods
  • Ability to deescalate difficult conversations and resolve complaints
  • Ability to independently decide on proper department to forward calls to
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and take rapid, accurate notes and enter into database Ability to work independently and prioritize and complete admin and data entry during slower call volume periods
  • Clerical, receptionist and administrative experience, particularly with high volume call environments and database entry
What can we offer you?
- $18.00 per hour
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, insurance benefits available.
- Colonial Voluntary Insurance
- 403B Retirement Savings (Think 401K for non-profits.)
- Extensive Employee Discount Program to help you save money on a wide variety of products and services.
- Employee Assistance Program to help you through life’s challenges, including counseling and coaching services; assistance with legal, financial and career questions; and so much more!