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Backhoe Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Arcosa Lightweight

Production Worker

Frazier Park, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Joseph J. Albanese

Class A Driver

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Ability to operate and transport heavy equipment (e. backhoe, roller, excavator, etc.) to and from jobsites. * Communicate logistics, schedule, and delays with employees and the dispatch department.

Bee Sweet Citrus

Truck Driver

Fowler, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition to hauling spray material, knowledge of backhoe, construction, skid steers and forklift equipment operation is highly preferred. Duties/Responsibilities * Able to perform a safe operation ...

Bee Sweet Citrus

Truck Driver

Fowler, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition to hauling spray material, knowledge of backhoe, construction, skid steers and forklift equipment operation is highly preferred. Duties/Responsibilities * Able to perform a safe operation ...

Joseph J. Albanese

Class A Driver

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Ability to operate and transport heavy equipment (e. backhoe, roller, excavator, etc.)to and from jobsites. * Communicate logistics, schedule, and delays with employees and the dispatch department.

Joseph J. Albanese

Class A Driver

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Ability to operate and transport heavy equipment (e. backhoe, roller, excavator, etc.) to and from jobsites. * Communicate logistics, schedule, and delays with employees and the dispatch department.

World Oil

Laborer

Compton, CA

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Operates a forklift, manlift, vacuum truck, backhoe, and other heavy equipment to complete tasks as assigned. Performs Lock-Out, Tag-Out (LOTO) and energy isolation as required. Other Functions:

MP

Heavy Equipment Operator - CDL Preferred

Salinas, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

MP Nexlevel, LLC, a leader in the utilities construction industry, is looking for Skilled Backhoe Operators. An Operator should possess a fundamental understanding of construction and be able to ...

World Oil

Laborer

Compton, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Operates a forklift, manlift, vacuum truck, backhoe, and other heavy equipment to complete tasks as assigned. Performs Lock-Out, Tag-Out (LOTO) and energy isolation as required. Other Functions:

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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.

Senior Water Utility Service Worker - City of Bessemer

JobsQuest

San Juan Capistrano, CA • On-site

$22.30 - $34.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

TARGET CLOSE DATE:
08/28/2026
PAY GRADE:
Grade 21
TYPE:
Full time
JOB SUMMARY:
The City of Bessemer is seeking a Senior Water Utility Service Worker to coordinate, assign and assist with the work involved in the installation, maintenance, and repair of water transmission/distribution systems (e.g., well water and pumps) and associated structures and devices (e.g., mains, service lines, meters, valves, and/or fire hydrants). Incumbents in this job class are expected to operate equipment used to inspect, maintain and repair of transmission/distribution systems (e.g., tapping machine, listening device, backhoe, bobcat, and trencher). Senior Water Utility Service Workers are required to monitor the operation of water systems and perform routine water quality tests.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The City of Bessemer provides competitive pay and comprehensive benefits packages to include medical and dental insurance, employer-sponsored retirement plan (pension), generous paid holidays, sick and vacation leave, and more. The pay range for this job is presented below:
$22.30 - $34.60
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
The following are job-related qualifications that are required for employment consideration for this position:
  • Driver's license (with the ability to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver's license within 6 months)
  • Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) Grade I Water Operator Certification with the ability to obtain Grade II Water Operator Certification as required by your jurisdiction.
  • Experience leading projects to extend water mains and reconnect service lines.
  • Experience operating a 6" tapping machine
  • Experience repairing fireplugs.

TYPICAL JOB DUTIES:
  • Performs water utility preparatory and clean-up work, and assists in the installation, maintenance, and repair of water transmission/distribution systems (e.g., well water and pumps).
  • Performs work related to the installation, maintenance, and repair of water transmission/distribution systems (e.g., well water and pumps) and associated structures and devices (e.g., mains, service lines, meters, valves, and/or fire hydrants); includes line location.
  • Operates equipment (e.g., tapping machine, listening device, backhoe, bobcat, and trencher) used in work on water transmission/distribution systems and in the inspection of grease control devices and wastewater sampling to include hand tools, such as hand or line location tools.
  • Ensures tools and equipment are available (e.g., trucks/warehouses are stocked with the necessary materials, tools, and equipment), assembled, and in proper working order.
  • Coordinates projects by determining personnel and materials needed and directing the work of a water utility service crew in order to ensure that work is completed according to plans, specifications, and safety standards.
  • Monitors the operation of water system and performs routine water quality tests.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Job involves moderate physical exertion required for occasional prolonged periods of stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling. May involve occasional lifting of items or objects weighing up to 75 lbs.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work is primarily performed at outdoor worksites such as roadways and construction sites. Work may involve using various hand tools such as hammer, screwdrivers, wrenches, and power tools such as saws, pumps, drills and Heavy Equipment such as back hoes, excavators, etc. May be exposed to weather conditions, such as extreme hot or cold temperatures, or other potentially hazardous conditions such as near roadway traffic or near animal or wildlife such as snakes, rodents, etc.
EEO STATEMENT:
The Personnel Board of Jefferson County provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment with the Personnel Board of Jefferson County, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Each Merit System member city/agency operates its own equal employment opportunity policies available on the individual city/agency website.
ACCOMMODATION:
To request an accommodation in the application or hiring process due to your own ongoing medical condition or disability, please contact our Accommodations Coordinator at accommodationrequest@pbjcal.org or phone at 205-279-3500 (select option 1) Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time. The accommodation process is reserved solely for job seekers with disabilities requesting accessibility assistance or accommodation in the job application process.
NOTE:
This job posting may close before, or be extended beyond, the listed Target Close Date based on the employment needs of the Merit System. More detail regarding this job is available by clicking Apply.
DISCLAIMER:
This job posting is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of the job duties, responsibilities, or skills and abilities required for this position and may be changed at the discretion of the Personnel Board at any time.

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