ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backhoe Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Dunn Construction Company

Backhoe Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

Operate backhoe equipment to excavate, load, and grade materials for asphalt paving projects. * Assist with digging trenches, removing debris, and preparing the site for asphalt installation.

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Rainbow City, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Safely operate and/or have the ability to operate various equipment including forklift, bobcat, backhoe, track hoe, compactor and/or steer equipment to bale, load and move waste material. Key ...

Quality Talent Group

Utility Operator

Theodore, AL · On-site

Operate loader, backhoe, and skid steer safely and efficiently * Perform groundwork and general labor tasks * Follow road construction best practices and maintain site awareness * Maintain ...

Quality Talent Group

Utility Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

Operate loader, backhoe, and skid steer safely and efficiently * Perform groundwork and general labor tasks * Follow road construction best practices and maintain site awareness * Maintain ...

Quality Talent Group

Utility Operator

Creola, AL · On-site

Operate loader, backhoe, and skid steer safely and efficiently * Perform groundwork and general labor tasks * Follow road construction best practices and maintain site awareness * Maintain ...

Quality Talent Group

Utility Operator

Fairhope, AL · On-site

Operate loader, backhoe, and skid steer safely and efficiently * Perform groundwork and general labor tasks * Follow road construction best practices and maintain site awareness * Maintain ...

Quality Talent Group

Utility Operator

Semmes, AL · On-site

Operate loader, backhoe, and skid steer safely and efficiently * Perform groundwork and general labor tasks * Follow road construction best practices and maintain site awareness * Maintain ...

Quality Talent Group

Utility Operator

Chickasaw, AL · On-site

Operate loader, backhoe, and skid steer safely and efficiently * Perform groundwork and general labor tasks * Follow road construction best practices and maintain site awareness * Maintain ...

Quality Talent Group

Utility Operator

Satsuma, AL · On-site

Operate loader, backhoe, and skid steer safely and efficiently * Perform groundwork and general labor tasks * Follow road construction best practices and maintain site awareness * Maintain ...

Quality Talent Group

Utility Operator

Prichard, AL · On-site

Operate loader, backhoe, and skid steer safely and efficiently * Perform groundwork and general labor tasks * Follow road construction best practices and maintain site awareness * Maintain ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackhoe JobsBackhoe Jobs in Alabama

Backhoe information

See Alabama salary details

$29.9K

$51.6K

$79.8K

How much do backhoe jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe in Alabama is $51,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $55,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backhoe operator?

Backhoe operators are skilled construction workers who operate backhoe loaders, which are heavy equipment machines used for digging, trenching, and moving earth and materials. They are responsible for maneuvering the backhoe safely on job sites, excavating foundations, loading trucks, and sometimes assisting in demolition tasks. Operators must understand how to read site plans, follow safety protocols, and perform basic maintenance on their equipment. Their work is essential in construction, landscaping, and utility installation projects.

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

To thrive as a Backhoe Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specialized equipment certification. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, safety protocols, and GPS or telematics systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong spatial awareness, and effective communication skills help operators work safely and efficiently with team members. These skills and qualifications ensure safe equipment operation, reduce risk of accidents, and contribute to successful project completion.

What are some common challenges faced by backhoe operators on construction sites, and how can they be overcome?

Backhoe operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight or uneven spaces, managing equipment maintenance, and ensuring safety around other workers and machinery. To overcome these challenges, operators should remain vigilant about their surroundings, communicate effectively with team members, and follow established safety protocols. Regular maintenance checks and ongoing training can also help operators adapt to different job site conditions and handle unexpected obstacles efficiently.

What is the difference between Backhoe vs Excavator?

AspectBackhoeExcavator
Required CertificationsOperator license, safety trainingOperator license, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility workConstruction sites, demolition, mining
Common UsageDigging, trenching, loadingHeavy digging, excavation, demolition

Backhoes and excavators share similar certifications and work environments, often used in construction and utility projects. The main difference is that backhoes are versatile with a front loader and rear digging arm, ideal for smaller or more precise tasks. Excavators are larger, more powerful machines suited for heavy-duty excavation and demolition work. Both are essential in construction but serve slightly different roles based on project needs.

How much money can you make with a backhoe?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or excavation can earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for heavy equipment operators.

Is there demand for backhoe operators?

Backhoe operators are in steady demand across construction, landscaping, and infrastructure projects, especially in regions with active development. Employment opportunities often require operating skills, safety certifications, and familiarity with heavy machinery. The job outlook remains positive due to ongoing infrastructure improvements and construction needs.

What is the hourly rate for a backhoe?

The hourly rate for a backhoe operator typically ranges from $20 to $35, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Skilled operators with certifications may earn higher wages, especially for specialized or long-term projects.
Backhoe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $51,621 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Backhoe Operator

Dunn Construction Company

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Position summary:
We are seeking an experienced and skilled Backhoe Operator to join our asphalt construction team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operating heavy machinery, specifically backhoes, and will contribute to our ongoing projects with precision, safety, and efficiency. This role is critical to the success of our asphalt paving operations, ensuring proper excavation, grading, and preparation of construction sites. Performs any and all other duties as necessary, but not otherwise specified. Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions.
Skills:
  • Operate backhoe equipment to excavate, load, and grade materials for asphalt paving projects.
  • Assist with digging trenches, removing debris, and preparing the site for asphalt installation.
  • Perform pre-operational checks on equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety compliance.
  • Collaborate with foremen and other equipment operators to complete projects according to project plans and timelines.
  • Safely maneuver equipment around active construction sites, ensuring the safety of crew members and surrounding structures.
  • Inspect and maintain equipment regularly, performing minor repairs and reporting issues to the maintenance team as necessary.
  • Follow all safety guidelines and protocols, including personal protective equipment (PPE) usage and adherence to site safety regulations.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, including the equipment and surrounding site.
  • Assist with other construction duties as needed, such as shoveling, raking, or spreading materials.
  • Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to ensure smooth operations and meet project deadlines.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  • Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  • Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

Attributes:
  • Manual Dexterity - The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
  • Multilimbed Coordination - The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while standing. It does involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
  • Arm-Hand Steadiness - The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
  • Static Strength - The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  • Oral Comprehension - The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
  • Bend or Stoop: 30 Minutes
  • Crouch: Occasionally
  • Carry: 1 Hour
  • Walk or Stand: Up to 10 Hours per Shift
  • Sit: 10 Hours per Shift

  • Frequently lift the following:
    • 5-10 lbs.- Continuously
    • 10-20 lbs.- Up to 10 Hours
    • 20-50 lbs.- 4 Hour
    • Over 50lbs. - Occasionally
  • 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. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear. The employee is required to stand for 10-12 hours; walk; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • WORK ENVIRONMENT:
    The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works around moving traffic and near moving mechanical parts. The employee works in outside weather conditions and is frequently exposed to airborne particles and vibration. The employee is exposed to extreme weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
Experience And Education:
Asphalt equipment experience preferred
Benefits: 32 Hour Guaranteed Work Week!
BCBS Medical & Prescription Benefits
Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Vol. Life / AD&D, Cancer, Specified Disease, ID Shield, Legal Shield, etc.
Matching 401K
Life Insurance
Company Chaplain
Tava Mental Health Benefits
PTO Available After First 30 Hours Worked
9 Paid Holidays
The list goes on...
If you need assistance completing the application, please call 205.510.0322. Thank you.
EOE/Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans
Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process, please contact Human Resources at
Phone: 205-510-0322
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
If you want to view the Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster, please choose your language: English - Spanish - Arabic - Chinese
English - Spanish - Chinese
If you want to view the Pay Transparency Policy Statement, please click the link: English

Apply