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Backhoe Owner Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Delaware, OH · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... Minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer, and ...

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Waverly, OH · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... Minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer, and ...

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Georgetown, OH · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... Minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer, and ...

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Shiloh, OH · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... Minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer, and ...

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Dayton, OH · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... Minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer, and ...

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pomeroy, OH · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... Minimum of three years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer ...

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All JobsBackhoe Owner Operator JobsBackhoe Owner Operator Jobs in Ohio

Backhoe Owner Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$31.4K

$54.1K

$83.7K

How much do backhoe owner operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe owner operator in Ohio is $54,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,200.00 and $58,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backhoe owner operator?

Backhoe Owner Operators are skilled professionals who own and operate their own backhoe equipment to perform excavation, digging, and construction tasks. They often work as independent contractors, providing services to construction companies, municipalities, and private clients. In addition to operating the machinery, they are responsible for maintaining their equipment, managing business operations, and ensuring safety standards are met on job sites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backhoe owner operator?

To thrive as a Backhoe Owner Operator, you need expertise in heavy equipment operation, a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), and knowledge of safety regulations. Familiarity with backhoe maintenance procedures and operating GPS or construction management software is also valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure safe, efficient job performance and client satisfaction. These abilities are vital for completing projects on time, minimizing risks, and maintaining equipment longevity in a competitive construction environment.

What are some common challenges backhoe owner operators face when managing both equipment maintenance and project deadlines?

Backhoe Owner Operators often juggle the dual responsibility of keeping their equipment in peak condition while meeting tight project schedules. Unexpected equipment breakdowns or maintenance issues can cause costly delays, making proactive maintenance and regular inspections essential. Balancing these tasks requires strong organizational skills and a clear understanding of project timelines. Additionally, effective communication with clients and contractors helps prioritize work and mitigate disruptions, ensuring both machinery and projects stay on track.

What is the difference between Backhoe Owner Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectBackhoe Owner OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsValid CDL or operating license, equipment experienceOperator certification, experience with excavators
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, private projects, equipment ownershipConstruction sites, rental equipment, industrial projects
Employer/IndustrySelf-employed or small business owner, construction, landscapingConstruction companies, contractors, industrial sectors

The main difference between a Backhoe Owner Operator and an Excavator Operator lies in ownership and scope. A Backhoe Owner Operator owns and operates a backhoe, often working independently or for small businesses, while an Excavator Operator typically works for larger companies or contractors, focusing solely on excavator operation. Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction environments, but ownership and job scope distinguish them.

How much money can I make with a backhoe owner operator?

Backhoe owner operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual incomes ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 depending on experience, location, and workload. Additional income can come from operating multiple machines or working overtime, and certifications or specialized skills may increase earning potential.

Is there demand for backhoe owner operators?

Backhoe owner operators are in steady demand in the construction, landscaping, and infrastructure industries, especially when projects require excavation, grading, or digging. Employment opportunities often depend on local construction activity, experience with equipment, and relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training.

What are popular job titles related to Backhoe Owner Operator jobs in Ohio?

For Backhoe Owner Operator jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backhoe Owner Operator jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Backhoe Owner Operator jobs in Ohio are:

Backhoe Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe Owner Operator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,144 per year, or $26 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rumpke

Delaware, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Rumpke rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 91 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions to our customers and communities through a commitment to safety, service, the environment and the growth of our people.
When you join Rumpke, you'll be part of a team providing essential services to millions of residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. You will enjoy competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, matching 401(k), life insurance, paid vacation, and more.
This is your opportunity to make a difference for you and your family. Come join our team!
Heavy Equipment Operators are responsible for safely operating various heavy equipment that perform the spreading, compaction, and/or loading of commercial and residential Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) or recyclable materials. These Heavy Equipment Operators may also perform earth moving operations including excavating, grading, backfilling, leveling, and moving soil, rock, and other materials to support construction, landfill, or site development projects.
Responsibilities of Position:
  • Perform efficient safe operation of all heavy equipment including, but not limited to, bulldozers, graders, excavators, backhoes, front end loaders, wheel loaders, off road dump trucks, and other equipment, as required, in a manner that is compliant with all local, state, and federal regulations and company policies
  • Conduct pre-trip/post-trip inspections on heavy equipment and complete necessary documentation
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment, (i.e., lubricating, fueling, and cleaning equipment)
  • Operate various equipment for general site preparation, earth moving, landscaping, snow removal, and/or related assignments
  • Continuously monitor the equipment to ensure proper operation and minimal down time, while also remaining aware of surroundings
  • Interact professionally with internal and external customers
  • Clean waste from equipment body, cab, and wheels throughout the day
  • Perform on-site roll off work to switch trash compactors as needed
  • Operate the yard tractor on site to move and stage trailers as needed
  • Manage hazardous waste to safely move waste materials in a manner that does not damage the tanks/containers they are held in or endanger personnel or equipment (Specific to Boyd)
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibility:
  • This position will not manage employees

Skills & Abilities Needed for Position:
  • Must be proficient on heavy equipment
  • Ability to successfully complete training on other landfill equipment, as necessary
  • Must be dependable, a self-starter, and able to identify and perform daily operational requirements
  • Must possess good communication skills and be able to communicate effectively and professionally with others
  • Ability to maneuver equipment through tight driving areas with heavy equipment, vehicle, and/or pedestrian traffic
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language well enough to communicate, understand, and respond to questions, directions, traffic signs, signals, and safety training

Experience & Knowledge Needed for Position:
  • Minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer, and off-road truck or similar experience preferred
  • Must pass a written and operational test to be certified to operate each piece of heavy equipment
  • Specific to Boyd - Must successfully complete hazardous waste management training, as provided in the Personnel Training Plan for Hazardous Waste Job Duties, within six months of employment or assignment to such job duties, along with an annual review of the initial training

Physical Requirements in a Regular Workday:
  • Continuously pushing/pulling a max of 10 lbs
  • Frequently lifting/carrying a max of 10 lbs
  • Frequently pushing/pulling a max of 20 lbs
  • Occasionally lifting/carrying a max of 20 lbs
  • Rarely lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling a max of 100 lbs
  • Frequently working inside
  • Frequently working outside in changing temperatures, wet/humid conditions
  • Continuously working in areas of dust, odors, mist, gases, and other airborne matter
  • Occasionally stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling
  • Frequently climbing and/or balancing
  • Continuously sitting
  • Rarely standing/walking

Additional Working Conditions/Aspects:
  • Possible exposure to high traffic conditions and/or tight driving areas
  • Exposure to residential and commercial waste
  • Ability to travel between offices, as required
  • Ability to work flexible hours; expected to work nights and weekends as needed
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and/or holidays
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States
  • Valid driver's license (if applicable)
  • Must successfully complete pre-employment testing
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language

This job description is intended to describe the general nature, complexity, and level of work to be performed by employees assigned to this position and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. It does not prescribe or restrict the work that may be assigned. Furthermore, this does not establish an employment contract and is subject to change at the discretion of the company.
Rumpke Waste and Recycling is committed to equality in all aspects of employment. It is Rumpke's policy to provide equal opportunities to all employees and potential employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Rumpke

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rumpke, centered in Cincinnati, OH, US, is a leading environmental solutions provider serving the waste and recycling industry. The company, with its official website at rumpke.com, is established on the principle of providing excellent customer service alongside innovative and sustainable solutions. Rumpke offers a wide array of services, including residential, commercial, and industrial waste collections, in addition to recycling programs and landfilling services. The company was founded in 1932 by William F. Rumpke, initially as a junkyard, but evolved over time into one of the most trusted waste management providers.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1932

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