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

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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 Sep 9, 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 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 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.

How much do backhoe operators make?

Backhoe operators in Florida typically earn an average hourly wage of around $18 to $25, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $37,000 to $52,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they work on.

How much money can I make with a backhoe operator?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with median annual salaries around $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with additional training or specialized equipment knowledge can earn higher wages, especially in construction or heavy civil projects.

Is there demand for backhoe operators?

Backhoe operators are in demand in the construction, landscaping, and infrastructure industries due to ongoing projects and infrastructure development. Employment opportunities often require operating skills, certifications, and familiarity with heavy machinery, and demand can vary by region and economic conditions.
More about Backhoe Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

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What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for 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:

Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,267 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Forklift Operator - Part-Time - Day Shift

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

XPO Logistics
Import-Export • 10K+ employees
Learn more about XPO Logisticsexternal

$26.05 - $32.04/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Efficiently sort, handle, load and unload palletized and non-palletized freight

  • Use appropriate motorized and manual equipment, including pallet jack and forklift

  • Secure freight inside trailers using appropriate tools and supplies

XPO rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 227 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 365 rated logistics

Job description

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO

 

Get a feel for the role. Watch this short video to see a day-in-the-life on an XPO dock.

 

Minimum qualifications:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Able to do basic math calculations, with and without a calculator
  • Available to work a variety of shifts due to varying freight volumes, including days, evenings, nights and weekends

Preferred qualifications:

  • Dock or warehouse experience in the transportation industry
  • Forklift experience in a freight or less-than-truckload (LTL) environment
  • Experience loading and unloading trailers
  • Strong attention to detail and desire to succeed

 

About the Forklift Operator job

Pay, benefits and more:

  • Expected pay range: $26.05 to $32.04/hour. Pay is on an annual step progression. Actual compensation may vary due to factors such as experience and skill set
  • Shift: Day
  • Competitive and comprehensive benefits options available for those scheduled to work 30 hours or more/week
  • This is a Motor Carrier Act Exempt position

 

What you'll do on a typical day:

  • Efficiently sort, handle, load and unload palletized and non-palletized freight
  • Use appropriate motorized and manual equipment, including pallet jack and forklift
  • Secure freight inside trailers using appropriate tools and supplies
  • Work in a safe, efficient manner, adhering to company safety policies
  • Use mobile handheld devices to scan and track shipments
  • Work on a dock that is not climate-controlled for extended periods

Forklift Operators are required to:

  • Lift freight and other objects of various shapes, sizes and weights (frequently up to 50 lbs. and occasionally greater than 70 lbs.)
  • Safely walk and stand for extended periods on a loading dock that is not climate-controlled and may be slippery
  • Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel as necessary

About XPO

XPO is a top ten global provider of transportation services, with a highly integrated network of people, technology and physical assets. At XPO, we look for employees who like a challenge and can communicate effectively in all situations. We want to leverage your skills and years of experience to drive positive results while ensuring a bright future for yourself and XPO. If you're looking for a growth opportunity, join us at XPO. 

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, disability, veteran or other protected status.

All applicants who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to take and pass a pre-employment drug test. 

The above statements are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties and skills for this job classification. 

Review XPO's candidate privacy statement here.

What XPO employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About XPO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in Greenwich, Connecticut, XPO Logistics, Inc., operating under the brand name XPO, is a one of the leading companies in the transportation and logistics sector. Operating its services in 30 countries, the company employs the use of ground-breaking technology in providing a broad suite of logistics services including supply chain management, freight brokerage, last mile logistics, and intermodal and drayage transportation. XPO's impressive history dates back to 2011 and within its relatively short existence, it has made a series of acquisitions to consolidate its top-notch range of services. Their mission is to provide outstanding results to customers by envisioning and implementing significant advancements in freight transportation and logistics.

Industry

Import-export

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Greenwich, CT, US

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