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Backhoe Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

C.W. Matthews

Backhoe Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary responsibility of this position is to operate all sizes of backhoes (both track and rubber tire) in support of ...

C.W. Matthews

Backhoe Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary responsibility of this position is to operate all sizes of backhoes (both track and rubber tire) in support of ...

C.W. Matthews

Backhoe Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary responsibility of this position is to operate all sizes of backhoes (both track and rubber tire) in support of ...

C.W. Matthews

Backhoe Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary responsibility of this position is to operate all sizes of backhoes (both track and rubber tire) in support of ...

City Of Roswell

Equipment Operator III

Roswell, GA · On-site

$20.27 - $26.35/hr

Operates backhoe to perform basic digging, trenching, and clearing of land or materials for maintenance and upkeep projects for public utilities and other infrastructure; controls placement of ...

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All JobsBackhoe JobsBackhoe Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Backhoe information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$31.7K

$54.8K

$84.6K

How much do backhoe jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe in Atlanta, GA is $54,768.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,700.00 and $59,100.00 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 Atlanta, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,768 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Backhoe Operator

C.W. Matthews

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

C.W. Matthews rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary responsibility of this position is to operate all sizes of backhoes (both track and rubber tire) in support of grading operations. Operators will also be required to operate other heavy machinery as needed, including bulldozers, loaders, and various other equipment. This role includes assisting with all aspects of job site operations and ensuring safety and efficiency on site.
Key Responsibilities:
  1. Backhoe Operation: Safely operate all sizes of backhoes, both track and rubber tire, to assist with grading and excavation tasks.
  2. Multi-Equipment Operation: Operate other construction equipment, such as bulldozers, loaders, rollers, dump trucks, tampers, and pans, as required by the project.
  3. Traffic Control: Flag traffic and set up and maintain traffic control devices to ensure safe operations on and around the job site.
  4. Erosion Control: Assist with the setup and maintenance of erosion control measures.
  5. Material Handling: Load and unload materials and supplies on the job site, ensuring proper storage and handling.
  6. Site Maintenance: Perform general cleanup of the job site, ensuring it remains organized, safe, and free of hazards.
  7. Grade Stake Maintenance: Check and maintain grade stakes to ensure accurate work is performed.
  8. Equipment Maintenance: Regularly maintain and inspect all equipment and tools to ensure they are in good working condition. Perform minor repairs as needed.
  9. Driving: Operate trucks (pick-ups, flatbeds, water trucks, etc.) and transport materials, equipment, and supplies as needed.
  10. Additional Tasks: Assist in any other duties related to the general operation of the job site.

Physical Requirements:
  1. Ability to stand, walk, climb, stoop, and bend for extended periods.
  2. Ability to lift materials and tools weighing between 10 to 50 pounds periodically.
  3. Ability to work at heights such as bridge beams or caps.
  4. Must be willing to work weekends as required.

What CWM Offers You:
  1. Opportunity for Growth and Development: A company culture that values internal promotion and provides growth opportunities for employees.
  2. Competitive Pay: Highly competitive base pay commensurate with experience.
  3. Comprehensive Benefits:
    1. Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision).
    2. Life insurance and disability benefits programs.
    3. 401(k) plan, Paid Holidays, and Year-End Bonus.
    4. Childcare Assistance

Additional Information:
  • This job description is not exhaustive and may be supplemented as needed.
  • CWM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from women, minorities, and veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

What C.W. Matthews employees say

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About C.W. Matthews Contracting

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

C.W. Matthews Contracting Company is a leading heavy highway construction contractor operating throughout Georgia. We’re a team of more than 1,500 hard-working men and women committed to serving our communities. Together, we’re making a difference by building safe, reliable infrastructure to Get Georgia Home. For close to a century, C.W. Matthews has built state-of-the-art roads, bridges, airport runways, and more. Our projects are used by millions of people every day to get where they need to go—whether they’re driving their children to school in the morning, shopping for groceries to feed their families, or embarking on this year’s summer road trip. The work we do touches nearly every aspect of modern life, and we are committed to doing it to the best of our abilities.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Marietta, GA, US

Year founded

1946

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