ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backhoe Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Earthmover Tire Sales

Tire Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

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 ...

City of San Luis, AZ

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$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 ...

haydon

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ

$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

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$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.

Kinder Morgan

Pipeline Specialist

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

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 ...

haydon

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ

$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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackhoe JobsBackhoe Jobs in Arizona

Backhoe information

See Arizona salary details

$30.8K

$53.1K

$82K

How much do backhoe jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 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 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.

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 July 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.
Heavy Equipment Operator (Backhoe & Excavator)

Heavy Equipment Operator (Backhoe & Excavator)

VW CONNECT

Tempe, AZ

Other

Posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Job 

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating backhoes, excavators, and other heavy machinery to support underground utility and construction projects. This role plays a critical part in trenching, excavation, backfilling, and installation of utilities while maintaining safety, productivity, and quality standards.

Responsibilities 

  • Operate backhoes, excavators, and other heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner
  • Perform trenching, digging, grading, and backfilling for underground utilities (gas, electric, communications, etc.)
  • Work around existing underground utilities with precision and care
  • Ensure proper depth, alignment, and compaction requirements are met
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance (greasing, fueling, etc.)
  • Identify and report equipment issues or safety concerns immediately
  • Maintain a clean and organized job site
  • Work closely with crew members and supervisors to meet production goals 

Qualifications

  • 2+ years of experience operating backhoes and/or excavators in a construction environment
  • Experience in underground utilities (preferred)

Skills/Physical Requirements

  • Strong attention to safety and detail
  • Good communication and teamwork skills
  • Reliable and dependable
  • Ability to work in extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, dust)
  • Ability to sit, stand, and operate equipment for extended periods
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs when needed



Apply