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Backhoe Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

GFL Environmental

Equipment Operator

Rainbow City, AL

$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 ...

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 ...

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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 Jul 29, 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 jobs can you do with a backhoe?

A backhoe operator can perform tasks such as excavation, trenching, digging foundations, loading materials, and site grading. These jobs are common in construction, landscaping, utility work, and road maintenance, often requiring knowledge of equipment operation and safety protocols.

What is the going rate for backhoe work?

Backhoe operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates can also be influenced by whether the work is hourly, daily, or project-based, and may include additional compensation for overtime or specialized skills.

What are backhoe operators and what do they do?

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.

How much 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. Certification and familiarity with specific machinery can influence earning potential.

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 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 is the highest paying heavy equipment job?

Heavy equipment operators, including those who operate backhoes, can earn high wages, especially with specialized skills or certifications. The highest-paying roles often involve operating large machinery in construction, mining, or oil and gas industries, with salaries increasing for experienced operators or those working in remote or high-risk environments.

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.

Backhoe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $51,621 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC

Demopolis, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Brasfield & Gorrie rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Responsibilities
Brasfield & Gorrie is currently accepting applications for a Heavy Equipment Operator. Below are the main responsibilities for this position.
(This description may not include all duties required of this position)
  • Operate several types of power construction equipment, such as excavator, backhoe, dozer, skid steer and vibratory compactor or motor graders to excavate, move and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement.
  • May repair and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.
  • Must adhere to safety protocol, and work in a drug-free environment.

Education - Skills - Knowledge - Qualifications & Experience
3 years Industrial Construction Equipment Operator experience preferred.
EOE/Vets/Disabilities

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