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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$22.50/hr

Machine Operator Santa Rosa, CA Star Staffing is currently recruiting for a Machine Operator Associate. This position is responsible to Operate one or more pieces of machinery in each department.

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

Forklift Operator

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

Description: Duties and Responsibilities * Responsible for the safe, effective, and accurate handling of products stored in facility * Responsible for the safe operation of various forklifts (propane ...

Forklift Operator

Sonoma, CA

$19 - $22.50/hr

Duties and Responsibilities * Responsible for the safe, effective, and accurate handling of products stored in facility * Responsible for the safe operation of various forklifts (propane and electric ...

Description Duties and Responsibilities * Responsible for the safe, effective, and accurate handling of products stored in facility * Responsible for the safe operation of various forklifts (propane ...

Forklift Operator

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

Duties and Responsibilities * Responsible for the safe, effective, and accurate handling of products stored in facility * Responsible for the safe operation of various forklifts (propane and electric ...

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Backhoe Operator information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$36.1K

$62.3K

$96.2K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Santa Rosa, CA is $62,267.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $67,200.00 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,267 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Operating Engineer - Journeyman- Union

McGuire & Hester

Bodega Bay, CA • On-site

$54 - $61/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

McGuire and Hester is a construction company that provides complete site work services: pipelines, grading paving, concrete, landscape and mechanical. In addition to traditional project delivery methods, we are involved with design build projects and alternative delivery methods. McGuire and Hester have played an integral role in the construction of many of Northern California's most recognizable landmarks and infrastructure projects. Our storied past crosses more than nine decades. Our mission statement is, "Together We Build Things Right" which encompasses our business philosophy as well as our values and culture. We have a team environment that focuses on the greater good, resulting in a fantastic place to work that positively impacts our business partners and community.

Job Summary-This is a union position. Candidates must be a member of the applicable union or be willing and eligible to join the union as a condition of employment.

A heavy equipment operator operates a variety of heavy equipment in construction, maintenance, and repair activities, and performs a variety of tasks in the construction and maintenance of heavy civil work like trenching, excavation, grading, bulldozing, and paving

Reports to

Foreman, General Superintendent, Group Manager

Key Communication Partners

Laborers, Foreman, General Superintendent

Typical Duties

  • Operates heavy equipment of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling, and unloading of various equipment, materials, and supplies
  • Operates heavy equipment such as backhoe, road grader, front-end loader, hydraulic excavator, skid steers loader, bulldozer, roller, compactor, and crane
  • Assists crew in digging ditches and trenches, hoisting materials and tools, equipment and any related work with a backhoe, excavator, front-end loader, or crane
  • Performs routine inspection of equipment and notifies supervisor of defects or repairs that need to be made
  • Perform all duties in conformance to appropriately safety and security standards and specifications
  • Perform general physical activities that require considerable use of your arms, legs, and moving whole body such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials
  • Use hands and arms in handling, installing positioning materials, and manipulating machines
  • Balance teamwork and individual responsibilities, exhibits openness to other views, contributes to building a positive team spirit and can build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives
  • Ability to prioritize and plan work activities and uses time efficiently
  • Demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness, look for new ways to improve and promote quality, applies feedback to improve performance and monitors own work to ensure quality
  • Think Safety-First and actively participate in the "Safety Bucks" program
  • Consistently at work on time, follows instructions, responds to management directions, commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals and complete tasks on time or proposes an alternative plan to appropriate person
  • The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, and carry objects. Frequently lifts, pushes, pulls, or carries 10lbs of weight during workday. Occasionally lifts or carries up to 50lbs

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Education and Experience: Previous training and/or the equivalent in experience operating heavy equipment is required

Language Skills: Have an understanding of English as associated with the jobsite safety and the typical duties required of this position

Mathematical Skills: Basic understanding of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division

Reasoning Ability: apply common sense understanding to carry out simple one or two step instructions. Deal with standardized situations with only occasional or no variables

Computer Skills: no skills required

Interpersonal Skills: ability to solve conflict, creates team atmosphere, dependable, and demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness

Certificates, Licenses, and Registration: none required for this job

Compensation:

$54 - $61 per hour, based on skills, experience and knowledge

Employment Type: FULL_TIME