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Backhoe Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Clean Harbors

Excavator Operator

Dolton, IL

$28/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Able to operate yellow iron (backhoe, excavator, front end loader) * Minimal computer skills * Loading unloading bulk liquids & solids * Forklift work * Housekeeping * Wearing PPE * Available to join ...

Clean Harbors

Excavator Operator

Dolton, IL

$28/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Able to operate yellow iron (backhoe, excavator, front end loader) * Minimal computer skills * Loading unloading bulk liquids & solids * Forklift work * Housekeeping * Wearing PPE * Available to join ...

Clean Harbors

Equipment Operator

Dolton, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Clean Harbors in Dolton, IL is looking for a Equipment Operator will be operating an Excavator and Backhoe for our Mix Pit operations. Pay: $28hr. w/$1.75 SD pay added for 2nd shift Shift: 2nd shift ...

CleanHarbors

Excavator Operator

Dolton, IL · On-site

$28/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Able to operate yellow iron (backhoe, excavator, front end loader) * Minimal computer skills * Loading unloading bulk liquids & solids * Forklift work * Housekeeping * Wearing PPE * Available to join ...

Service Corporation International

Maintenance Worker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Under supervision, may operate backhoe to dig graves without damage to surrounding vaults, markers or monuments * Installs grave markers, bronze memorials, crypt faces, etc. * Maintains and repairs ...

Service Corporation International

Maintenance Worker

Skokie, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Under supervision, may operate backhoe to dig graves without damage to surrounding vaults, markers or monuments * Installs grave markers, bronze memorials, crypt faces, etc. * Maintains and repairs ...

Service Corporation International

Maintenance Worker

Monee, IL · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Under supervision, may operate backhoe to dig graves without damage to surrounding vaults, markers or monuments * Installs grave markers, bronze memorials, crypt faces, etc. * Maintains and repairs ...

Service Corporation International

Maintenance Worker

Skokie, IL

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Under supervision, may operate backhoe to dig graves without damage to surrounding vaults, markers or monuments * Installs grave markers, bronze memorials, crypt faces, etc. * Maintains and repairs ...

Troost Cemeteries

Groundskeeper

Darien, IL · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Under supervision, may operate backhoe to dig graves without damage to surrounding vaults, markers, or monuments. * Under supervision, may operate casket lift for entombments. * Installs headstones ...

Geneva, City of (IL)

Journeyman Lineman

Geneva, IL

$136K/yr

... backhoe, bucket/boom truck; maintain and care for assigned tools and equipment; read, understand, and interpret engineering plans and specifications; deal tactfully, and professionally with ...

Service Corporation International

Maintenance Worker

Monee, IL

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Under supervision, may operate backhoe to dig graves without damage to surrounding vaults, markers or monuments * Installs grave markers, bronze memorials, crypt faces, etc. * Maintains and repairs ...

Service Corporation International

Maintenance Worker

Skokie, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Under supervision, may operate backhoe to dig graves without damage to surrounding vaults, markers or monuments * Installs grave markers, bronze memorials, crypt faces, etc. * Maintains and repairs ...

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All JobsBackhoe JobsBackhoe Jobs in Chicago, IL

Backhoe information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34K

$58.7K

$90.7K

How much do backhoe jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe in Chicago, IL is $58,669.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $63,400.00 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.
Backhoe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,669 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Clean Harbors

Dolton, IL

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Clean Harbors rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 91 rated recycling and waste

Job description


Clean Harbors in Dolton, IL is looking for a Equipment Operator will be operating an Excavator and Backhoe for our Mix Pit operations.

Pay: $28hr. w/$1.75 SD pay added for 2nd shift

Shift: 2nd shift (3-11) Mon-Fri

Why work for Clean Harbors?

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5!

  • Competitive pay and benefits

  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment

  • Group 401K with company matching component

  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement

  • Positive and safe work environments

  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career

  • Able to operate yellow iron (backhoe, excavator, front end loader)
  • Minimal computer skills 
  • Loading unloading bulk liquids & solids
  • Forklift work
  • Housekeeping
  • Wearing PPE
  • Available to join the snow team in the cold months.
  • (Side note must be clean shaven - mustache okay)
  • 1+ years' experience in operating an excavator, backhoe and/or roll-off truck.
  • Previous industrial labor experience considered an asset.

Clean Harbors, a Clean Harbors company, has a commitment to excellence deeply rooted in a strong sense of tradition. Our entire business model revolves around keeping North American businesses green. We generate more than $1.2 billion in annual revenue as a world-class environmental service organization and market leader in industrial hazardous waste management, parts-cleaning technology, and oil re-refining. We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery capacity in North America allowing us to re-refine more than 150 million gallons each year.

Every day, we help our customers resolve their waste management needs and reduce their carbon footprint. PROTECTION. CHOICES. PEOPLE. MAKE GREEN WORK.

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.

Clean Harbors and its subsidiaries are a Military & Veteran friendly company.

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

#LI-CS1

#SK

  • Ensuring that Health and Safety is the number one priority by complying with all safe work practices, policies, and processes and acting in a safe manner at all times;
  • Operates backhoes and roll-off trucks, Forklifts;
  • Operate excavators and backhoes safely and efficiently
  • Assists with moving drums as necessary;
  • Assures unit is never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is inconsistent with Standard Operating Procedures;
  • Complete and submits all associated paperwork as required for waste tracking. 
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
  • Follow all safety procedures and OSHA regulations
  • Work closely with site supervisors and crew members
  • Maintain a clean and organized job site

What Clean Harbors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US

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