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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Zamboni Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Operator will be exposed to cold, wet, and icy conditions. NOTE: The essential responsibilities of this position are described under the headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due ...

Zamboni Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Operator will be exposed to cold, wet, and icy conditions. NOTE: The essential responsibilities of this position are described under the headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due ...

Zamboni Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Operator will be exposed to cold, wet, and icy conditions. NOTE: The essential responsibilities of this position are described under the headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due ...

Equipment Operator

Marana, AZ · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

The Heavy Equipment Operator's primary function is to operate a variety of Heavy Equipment at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures ...

Machine Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operator Architectural Products Group Tucson, Arizona, United States Job ID: 526495 Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We are the leading provider ...

Equipment Operator

Marana, AZ

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

The Heavy Equipment Operator's primary function is to operate a variety of Heavy Equipment at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures ...

PIT Operator

Marana, AZ · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide sophisticated supply chain solutions for our customers. Become a part of our rapidly growing, dynamic team and ...

Machine Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Perform routine machine maintenance * Assist other operators to set up machines and any other necessary tasks to adhere to deadlines and completion of product * Make sure all housekeeping is ...

For additional information about our company, visit our website at www.fisherind.com POSITION SCOPE The Scraper Operator operates heavy machinery to manipulate earth and rock at a construction site.

RME Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

RME Operator (RMEO). The RME Operator role is a structured entry point into the RME organization designed for individuals who are interested in beginning a technical career. No prior electrical or ...

PIT Operator

Marana, AZ · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide sophisticated supply chain solutions for our customers. Become a part of our rapidly growing, dynamic team and ...

PIT Operator

Marana, AZ

$15 - $17.75/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide sophisticated supply chain solutions for our customers. Become a part of our rapidly growing, dynamic team and ...

PIT Operator

Marana, AZ · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide sophisticated supply chain solutions for our customers. Become a part of our rapidly growing, dynamic team and ...

PIT Operator

Marana, AZ · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide sophisticated supply chain solutions for our customers. Become a part of our rapidly growing, dynamic team and ...

PIT Operator

Marana, AZ

$15 - $17.75/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide sophisticated supply chain solutions for our customers. Become a part of our rapidly growing, dynamic team and ...

Universal Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Determines the causes of operating errors and decides what to do about it. * Reads and interprets survey markers and stakes to meet set standards. * Reads and interprets engineering drawings and ...

PIT Operator

Marana, AZ · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide sophisticated supply chain solutions for our customers. Become a part of our rapidly growing, dynamic team and ...

Showing results 21-40

Backhoe Operator information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$30.6K

$52.9K

$81.7K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Tucson, AZ is $52,883.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,200.00 and $57,100.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Backhoe Operator jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Backhoe Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,883 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Zamboni Operator

ASM Global

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


ASM Global rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

146th of 260 rated facilities management


Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Operate and maintain the ice-resurfacer and ice-edger.
  • Drive Zamboni during hockey games maintaining the ice to AHL and/or NCAA standards.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
Qualifications: To perform the job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Education and Experience:
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Use and properly care for ice equipment, including ice-resurfacer and ice-edger with multiple manual controls, gears and foot pedals. This requires good vision, hearing and dexterity.
  • Previous facility operations experience a plus.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills necessary.
  • Ability to ice skate is a plus.

Skills and Abilities:
  • Must have the ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends and holidays, in addition to normal business hours.
  • Ability to maintain an effective working relationship with clients, employees, exhibitors, patrons and others encountered in the course of employment.

Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The ability to lift or push up to 150 pound hockey goal frames. Operator will be exposed to cold, wet, and icy conditions.

NOTE: The essential responsibilities of this position are described under the headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. Also, this document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.
Applicants that need reasonable accommodations to complete the application process may contact 520-837-4759.
Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and protected Veterans to apply.
VEVRAA Federal Contractor

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About ASM Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ASM Global was formed in October 2019 from the merger of AEG Facilities, the global innovator in live entertainment venues, and SMG, the gold standard in event management. ASM Global is a venue management powerhouse that spans five continents, 14 countries and more than 300 of the world's most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention and exhibit centers, and performing arts venues. As the world's most trusted venue manager, ASM Global provides venue strategy and management, sales, marketing, event booking and programming, construction and design consulting, and pre-opening services. Among the venues in our portfolio are landmark facilities such as McCormick Place & Soldier Field in Chicago, the Los Angeles Convention Center, Tele2 Arena in Stockholm, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Conference Centre in Shenzhen, China and Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place & DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, Michigan. ASM Global also offers food and beverage operations through its concessions and catering companies.

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2019