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

Forklift Driver

Napa, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

California applicants: Please click here to review the Costco Applicant Privacy Notice. The jobs listed are examples of the typical kinds of positions that Costco may hire for when openings exist.

Forklift Driver

Novato, CA · On-site

$20 - $23.50/hr

California applicants: Please click here to review the Costco Applicant Privacy Notice. The jobs listed are examples of the typical kinds of positions that Costco may hire for when openings exist.

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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.
Forklift Driver

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Costco rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,878 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

California applicants: Please click here to review the Costco Applicant Privacy Notice.
The jobs listed are examples of the typical kinds of positions that Costco may hire for when openings exist.
The listing does not mean that any positions are currently open or available at Costco.
Position Summary:
Operates an electric stand-up forklift to move pallets of merchandise and equipment throughout the warehouse. Hand-stacks product from partial pallets onto full pallets of product.
For additional information about pay ranges, click here.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, health benefits (medical/dental/vision/hearing aid/pharmacy/behavioral health/employee assistance), health care reimbursement account, dependent care assistance plan, short-term disability and long-term disability insurance, AD&D insurance, life insurance, 401(k), and stock purchase plan to eligible employees.

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About Costco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Costco is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise. With more than 800 locations worldwide, Costco provides a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of specialty departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. Today, as the company evolves, it stays true to the qualities that helped attract and retain millions of loyal members around the globe: Commitment to quality. Costco warehouses carry about 4,000 SKUs (stock keeping units) compared to the 30,000 found at most supermarkets. By carefully choosing products based on quality, price, brand, and features, the company can offer the best value to members.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Issaquah, WA, US

Year founded

1983