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Backhoe Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Skid-steel, backhoe, excavators experience required. * Monitors equipment condition for regular operation. May perform minor maintenance or repairs. Work Environment: * Predominantly outdoors at ...

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA

$28 - $35/hr

Skid-steel, backhoe, excavators experience required. * Monitors equipment condition for regular operation. May perform minor maintenance or repairs. Work Environment: * Predominantly outdoors at ...

Motive Workforce

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Equipment used includes TesMec (large truck with blade and vac), RT 2' blade Vacs (for potholes and RT micro cut trench), skid steer (core Drill), hand cores, skid-steel, backhoe, and excavators ...

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Skid-steel, backhoe, excavators experience required. * Monitors equipment condition for regular operation. May perform minor maintenance or repairs. Work Environment: * Predominantly outdoors at ...

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Production Worker

Frazier Park, CA

$17.50 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate at least 2 pieces of mobile equipment (haul truck, farm tractor, water truck, rubber tire backhoe, front loader, etc.) * Operate equipment in quarry or production * Follow all safety rules ...

San Joaquin Delta College

Groundskeeper/Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$3.8K - $4.7K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate a variety of equipment used in the maintenance of assigned campus grounds including but not limited to riding lawn mowers, street sweeper, broom truck, industrial chipper, jackhammer, backhoe ...

City of Charlotte

Equipment Operator Senior

Commerce, CA · On-site

$25 - $34.64/hr

The Street Maintenance Equipment Operator Senior operates heavy duty backhoe/front end loader and heavy equipment used in the construction and maintenance of items within the City of Charlotte.

City of Kingsburg, CA

Maintenance Worker III

Kingsburg, CA · On-site

$56K - $68K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Experience with heavy machinery such as; backhoe, forklift, and tractor. Licenses/Certificates: * Possession of a valid California driver's license. Duties: * Operates power-driven equipment that may ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsBackhoe JobsBackhoe Jobs in California

Backhoe information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$56.2K

$86.8K

How much do backhoe jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe in California is $56,206.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $60,700.00 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.

What cities in California are hiring for Backhoe jobs?

Cities in California with the most Backhoe job openings:

Backhoe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $56,206 per year, or $27 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Motive Infrastructure Solutions

Mission Viejo, CA

$28 - $35/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Job description

Purpose
The Equipment Operator has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job.They work independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function.

Responsibilities:
Operates various pieces of equipment, from standard vehicles to heavy equipment, as needed for the processes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Will be using the following equipment:
  • TesMec (large truck with blade and vac)
  • RT 2' blade
  • Vacs (for potholes and RT micro cut trench)
  • Skid steer (core Drill)
  • Hand cores
  • Skid-steel, backhoe, excavators experience required.
  • Monitors equipment condition for regular operation. May perform minor maintenance or repairs.

Work Environment:
  • Predominantly outdoors at jobsite where there may be exposure to varying conditions, such as inclement weather, uneven terrain or other hazardous conditions.

Skills:
  • Self-motivated, able to work independently.
  • Hold high standards for quality control.
  • Able to work flexible schedule

Education and Training:
  • High School graduate or equivalent, required.
  • 3-5 Years of related experience, or 2 Years of experience with either an Associate's degree or other relevant training or certification.
  • Requires driving between job sites. Valid Driver License required and satisfactory driving record.
  • CDL A

Compensation: $28-35/hr 

#MCTA1
Education:Employment Type: CONTRACTOR

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