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Backhoe Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Team Fishel

Backhoe Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description Team Fishel , the Best Choice in utility construction, is hiring Backhoe Operators for underground utility projects at our Tucson, AZ office . Team Fishel Equipment Operators receive ...

Clean Harbors

Facility Equipment Operator I

Phoenix, AZ

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Clean Harbors in Phoenix, AZ is seeking an Equipment Operator I to operate heavy equipment such as a backhoe, heavy duty crane, heavy duty forklift and/or track hoe within the field. Monday - Friday ...

CleanHarbors

Facility Equipment Operator I

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Clean Harbors in Phoenix, AZ is seeking an Equipment Operator I to operate heavy equipment such as a backhoe, heavy duty crane, heavy duty forklift and/or track hoe within the field. Monday - Friday ...

Clean Harbors

Facility Equipment Operator I

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$14.16 - $32.88/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Clean Harbors in Phoenix, AZ is seeking an Equipment Operator I to operate heavy equipment such as a backhoe, heavy duty crane, heavy duty forklift and/or track hoe within the field. Monday - Friday ...

Clean Harbors

Facility Equipment Operator I

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Clean Harbors in Phoenix, AZ is seeking an Equipment Operator I to operate heavy equipment such as a backhoe, heavy duty crane, heavy duty forklift and/or track hoe within the field. Monday - Friday ...

Mountain Power Electrical Contractor, Inc

Be Seen First

Traffic Signal Technician

Tucson, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... backhoe, bucket truck & boom truck. IMSA certification Benefits: Competitive Pay Health Insurance: Medical, Dental & Vision. Retirement Savings Plan (401K) with company matching Paid Holidays All ...

Earthmover Tire Sales

Tire Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

  • Life

  • PTO

Tires to be serviced range from small UTV tires to backhoe and semi-truck tires. There are also opportunities to be trained in OTR(loaders, scrapers..etc) tires as well. * We are willing to train new ...

haydon

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Operate heavy equipment including water truck, backhoe, gang mower, bobcat, trencher, skip loader with bucket and crane truck for a variety of landscape maintenance and repair operations. * May ...

haydon

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Operate heavy equipment including water truck, backhoe, gang mower, bobcat, trencher, skip loader with bucket and crane truck for a variety of landscape maintenance and repair operations. * May ...

City of San Luis, AZ

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform duties requiring backhoe operations. * Perform commercial installation and troubleshooting as well as repairs to meter box. * Maintain record-keeping in excel spreadsheets, charts and log ...

Kinder Morgan

Pipeline Specialist

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

  • PTO

Perform all phases of mobilizing, operating and maintaining heavy excavation equipment (hydrovac truck, backhoe, track hoe, side boom, dozer, and maintainers) to include excavation frequently on ...

City of San Luis

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

Perform duties requiring backhoe operations. Perform commercial installation and troubleshooting as well as repairs to meter box. Maintain record-keeping in excel spreadsheets, charts and log sheets.

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Backhoe information

See Arizona salary details

$30.8K

$53.1K

$82K

How much do backhoe jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe in Arizona is $53,073.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $57,300.00 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.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Backhoe jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Backhoe job openings:

Backhoe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,073 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Backhoe Operator

Team Fishel

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

Per diem

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Team Fishel rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Location
Tucson, AZ
Market
General Utility Construction
Who is Team Fishel?
Since 1936, we've been the Best Choice in utility engineering and construction. Safety is our top priority and is key in everything we do. We're industry professionals driven by high performance for our customers and each other. Interested in joining our Team?
Description
Team Fishel , the Best Choice in utility construction, is hiring Backhoe Operators for underground utility projects at our Tucson, AZ office . Team Fishel Equipment Operators receive competitive pay and a full benefits package to include health insurance, paid vacation, 401K, and a profit-sharing plan.
Responsibilities
1. Safely operate a backhoe to complete underground utility projects to specifications
2. Operate a company vehicle to deliver products, tools, and equipment when required
Requirements & Qualifications
1. Minimum of 2 years experience operating a backhoe in the vicinity of underground utilities
2. Ability to work safely as part of a team
3. Available to travel when required (per diem paid for all out-of-town work)
4. A valid driver's license is required
Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Wellness Program
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Program
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Leave Benefits
  • Teammate Assistance Program
  • Learn more ( Español )

Team Fishel offers excellent industry training and a career development path for our Teammates. Competitive pay and benefits, including health insurance, 401k, and a company profit sharing plan!
Join Team Fishel, your future and your team.
EOE/DFWP

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