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Backhoe Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

R & R Electric LLC

Electricians / Foreman's

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$24 - $45/hr

Equipment operator i.e. backhoe, mini excavator etc. ​​ Qualifications: * 4 years experience * Familiarity with electrical schematics, blueprints, and manuals * Familiarity with electrical ...

Herzog

Equipment Operators

Springfield, VA · On-site

$35 - $43/hr

Operates and performs operator-level maintenance of several types of heavy equipment including end loaders, backhoe tractors, bulldozers, road graders, and specialized track equipment. * Operates ...

Herzog

Equipment Operators

Springfield, VA · On-site

$35 - $43/hr

Operates and performs operator-level maintenance of several types of heavy equipment including end loaders, backhoe tractors, bulldozers, road graders, and specialized track equipment. * Operates ...

Team Fishel

Crew Leader

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Equipment operating experience (directional drill, backhoe, mini excavator, trencher, plow, etc.) * Limited travel required Starting pay $28 - $34 / hour depending on experience. Benefits * Health ...

CW and Sons Infrastructure, Inc

Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Operator must: * 3+ years of experience on large excavators (ie John Deere 180 or larger), backhoes and/or front end loaders. * Responsible for safe operation and maintenance (ie greasing) of ...

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All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsBackhoe Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

Backhoe Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$37.4K

$64.5K

$99.6K

How much do backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe operator in Washington, DC is $64,480.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,600.00 and $69,600.00 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 Washington, DC?

For Backhoe Operator jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backhoe Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Backhoe Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,480 per year, or $31 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Centuri Group, Inc.

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

$34.04/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Starting Rate: $34.04/hour
Centuri companies consider several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education, training and skills, and geographic location.
Who We Are
Connecting People to Possibility
As a publicly traded company (NYSE: CTRI) with $3 billion in revenue, Centuri leads the way in utility and energy infrastructure across North America. What sets us apart is our local agility, resources to scale, and comprehensive solutions for a dynamic energy market.
Whether in the field or providing essential behind the scenes support, Centuri offers professional growth opportunities where you can thrive and make a difference. Join a culture where safety, sustainability, and teamwork come first, with training and benefits that truly care for your well-being.
As an experienced Equipment Operator, after paid training, you will put your skills to work - safety operating equipment to move earth, tools and materials to and from job sites. Reporting to a seasoned Foreman, you will join a crew to get the job done right. We believe in the power of teamwork, and all crew members are expected to assist with general labor as needed.
What You'll Do
  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more
  • Load and unload equipment and materials
  • Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment
  • Maintain all industry-required Operator Qualifications
  • Perform other tasks as requested by leadership

What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's License
  • 1+ year experience safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities

What You'll Get
  • Join the Largest Natural Gas Distribution Contractor in the United States
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Paid, on-the-job training: natural gas distribution, utility excavation, safety
  • Employee Assistance program benefit
  • Health Insurance Plan benefit
  • Retirement Plan benefit

Work Environment
  • Work sites are outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions
  • All worksite safety instructions are written and spoken in English; must be fluent in English
  • Work includes prolonged and repeated: lifting (including overhead, up to 50lbs); standing; climbing; kneeling; reaching and feeling; crouching and crawling
  • Work is performed within the "red zone" of heavy equipment
  • Working safely requires quick/accurate hand-eye coordination and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner

Legal Stuff
  • Pass pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug screens
  • Provide valid US work authorization documents for E-Verify
  • Satisfactory results of pre-employment background check results
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card
  • Join and maintain Union membership

Our Commitment to Opportunity
This job description is subject to change at any time. It reflects management's assignment of essential functions, and does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Centuri and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, gender, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. Centuri will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a test or job interview) if so requested.
Centuri is a Department of Transportation regulated employer. Certain safety-sensitive positions are covered under the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, 49 CFR Part 40. It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the company's Drug Free Workplace Policy to use or test positive for marijuana.

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