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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

XPO

Forklift Operator - Night Shift

Marshfield, MO

$22.85/hr

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 ...

Wil Fischer

Forklift Operator

Springfield, MO

$16/hr

Warehouse Loader Location: Springfield, MO Reports To: Warehouse Manager Hours: Monday - Friday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Compensation: Starts at $16/hr Description: This position is accountable for the ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Springfield, MO

Backhoe Operator information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$30K

$51.8K

$80K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Springfield, MO is $51,800.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $55,900.00 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 project complexity. Rates may be higher for operators with specialized skills or certifications and can vary based on whether the work is freelance or through a company.

How much do backhoe operators make?

Backhoe operators in New York City typically earn an average hourly wage of $20 to $30, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they work on.

Is 50 too old to become a heavy equipment operator?

Backhoe operators can be of various ages, and age is not a strict barrier to entering the profession. Physical fitness, relevant skills, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are more important factors; many employers value experience and reliability over age. As long as the individual can meet the physical demands and obtain necessary licenses, becoming a backhoe operator at age 50 is feasible.

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.

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.

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.

More about Backhoe Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Operator jobs in Springfield, MO? For Backhoe Operator jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:
Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Springfield, MO as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,800 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Equipment Operator/Loader

Equipment Operator/Loader

Doing Steel, Inc.

Springfield, MO • On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Overview

PAID WEEKLY! GREAT BENEFITS!
Doing Steel Fabrication, LLC has a proud history of delivering top-quality steel fabrication services since 1986. With extensive facilities and a dedicated team, we serve projects across the country, emphasizing excellence and innovation in our industry. Doing Steel is a family-owned company who believe in our people. If you're looking for a stable industry and a great company, come work and grow with us!

At Doing Steel Fabrication, we take pride in providing high-quality steel fabrication solutions for a wide range of projects. We value individuals who are eager to learn, passionate about problem-solving, and ready to grow within a supportive and dynamic team environment. Whether you're starting your career or bringing years of experience, Doing Steel Fabrication offers the training, mentorship, and resources needed to help you succeed.

Equipment Operator

Job Duties:

  • Load and unload steel materials, parts, and products.
  • Assist welders, fabricators, and machine operators with setup and operations.
  • Operate forklifts, hand trucks, and other material handling equipment.
  • Package and prepare materials for shipment, including documentation.
  • Follow safety protocols and wear appropriate PPE at all times.
  • Operate equipment safely in facility and outdoors.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Prior experience in steel fabrication or manufacturing is a plus.
  • Ability to lift up to 50-60 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
  • Basic math and measurement skills (e.g., using tape measures, fractions).
  • Forklift certification or willingness to obtain.
  • Valid driver's license may be required for deliveries or pickups.
  • Able to communicate in English both verbally and in writing.

Skills & Abilities:

  • Strong work ethic and reliability.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Comfortable working in indoor/outdoor environments and extreme temperatures.
  • Team-oriented with good communication skills.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
    • Maintains a clean work environment.
    • Performs other duties requiring similar skills and abilities as assigned.
    • Regular, in-person attendance due to necessary teamwork and personal interactive nature of this position.
    • The ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.

  • Education and Experience

    • High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
    • Experience with trucks under three tons (i.e. tractors and fork-trucks), mobile crane equipment and overhead cranes.

    Schedule:

    • 10-hour shift
    • Day shift or 2nd shift
    • Monday to Friday

    WORK ENVIRONMENT:

    Exposure to dust, fumes, noise and high-degree varying seasonal temperatures. Machinery with energy sources including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, or other energy.

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

    The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of this job. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to walk, stand, use hands and fingers, handle, grasp or feel; reach with hands and arms climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.

    Additional effort requirements consist of, but are not limited to, lifting, pushing and pulling material, stairs, and ladders. When there is an occasion to move heavy material greater than 50 pounds, the operator will request assistance from another team member or utilize provided lifting equipment.

    Doing Steel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All positions at Doing Steel require a pre-employment drug screen; all job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of the drug screen. Failure to pass a drug screen prior to employment or at any time during employment will result in the recension of the offer and/or termination of employment.


Doing Steel is a Drug-Free Safety-First workplace. All applicants must successfully complete a drug screen prior to being hired. Failure to submit to or pass a drug screen will result in any offer of employment being rescinded. Failure to submit or pass a drug screen, at any time while employed by Doing Steel, or any of its subsidiaries, will result in termination of employment. Drug screens may be given at any time to any employee for reasonable suspicion, or as part of a random selection, or post-accident or incident.