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Backhoe Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of Elmhurst

Utility Maintenance Worker I or II

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$30.35 - $44.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Past experience in operations of backhoe and end loader equipment, driving of heavy construction and sewer flushing/televising equipment preferred; OR an equivalent combination of education, training ...

Oak Park

Water & Sewer Worker I

Oak Park, IL

Ability to operate construction and maintenance equipment such as dump trucks, front end loader, backhoe, skid steer, vactor, sewer jetter, * Ability to operate jack-hammers, concrete saws, sewer ...

Joliet Junior College

Groundskeeper 3A

Joliet, IL · On-site

$29.77 - $30.10/hr

... backhoe, string trimmers, irrigation equipment, utility vehicles and all related equipment. 5. Successfully maintain, repair, and operate the irrigation system and the controller. 6. Safe and ...

City of North Chicago

Street Maintenance I

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Safely, operates assorted equipment which may include a large tractor with a variety of attachments, backhoe, sweeper, and skid steer. * Checks condition of equipment daily and performs pre and post ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

City of North Chicago

Street Maintenance I

North Chicago, IL

$46K - $63K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Safely, operates assorted equipment which may include a large tractor with a variety of attachments, backhoe, sweeper, and skid steer. Checks condition of equipment daily and performs pre and post ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

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Showing results 41-60

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.

Utility Maintenance Worker I or II

City of Elmhurst

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$30.35 - $44.61/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

City of Elmhurst
Employment Opportunity
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
UTILITY MAINTENANCE WORKER I / II
Position Summary
This is a semi-skilled position that operates and maintains the City of Elmhurst Utility (water, wastewater, and stormwater) systems. Under general supervision, this position performs general maintenance functions on the utility assets, such as underground water, sanitary and storm systems and water meters.
Essential Functions
  • Performs manual tasks, under supervision, of which some may require skills or special knowledge acquired through training, education, or experience
  • Assist with tasks associated with leak detection, sanitary sewer monitoring, and sampling.
  • Participates in the construction, maintenance, and repair of water, sanitary and storm sewer lines, inlets, and manholes.
  • Participates in repairs/replacement of water services, water main breaks, water valves, hydrants and installation of water taps.
  • Assist in operations of televising/flushing equipment.
  • Ability to drive medium to heavy-duty trucks in hauling materials and equipment.
  • Performs manual work in cleaning and repairing work site.
  • Performs snow removal and salting of roadways.
  • Completes routine reports on work performed on computerized management maintenance system, via tablet
  • Assures the maintenance of safe work areas and equipment, promptly corrects work hazards, as necessary. Reports all work-related injuries immediately, complies with all safety rules, and attends appropriate safety programs.
  • Promotes and maintains responsive community relations.
  • Assist with fats, oil and grease program.
  • Must be available for emergency callouts, holiday work, and overtime.
  • Must be available for snow and ice removal operations.
  • Performs related duties and manual labor as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent. Minimum of one year of experience in construction, maintenance and repair of water, sanitary and storm sewer systems, or equivalent. Past experience in operations of backhoe and end loader equipment, driving of heavy construction and sewer flushing/televising equipment preferred; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.
  • Utility Maintenance Worker I / II:
    • Valid Illinois driver’s license.
    • Valid Class A CDL driver’s license with tanker endorsement within one year of hire.
  • Utility Maintenance Worker I – in addition:
    • Class D certification within one year of hire.
    • Collections certification within one year of hire.
  • While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds (with assistance).
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts and is exposed to fumes or airborne particles and toxic or caustic chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is occasionally loud. The position requires work in all weather conditions.
Required Skills and Knowledge:
  • Ability to perform operation of motorized equipment.
  • Ability to perform manual labor as needed.
  • Ability to properly operate fire hydrants.
  • Ability to operate GPS equipment and software.
  • Ability to efficiently utilize computerized tablets.
  • Ability to operate equipment, such as: air compressor, jackhammer, concrete saws, valve turning machine, acoustical monitoring devices, and meter installation devices.
  • Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this role.
Salary and Benefits
  • Utility Maintenance Worker II: Grade: P04 / Salary: $30.35-$39.46
  • Utility Maintenance Worker I: Grade: P07 / Salary: $34.34-$44.61
  • FLSA Status: Non-exempt
  • Benefits: Includes Union Local 150 health and dental insurance benefits at no cost to the employee, employee-sponsored vision insurance, deferred compensation opportunity, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund.
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter at www.elmhurst.org/jobs, and employment offers are subject to the successful completion of a background check, drug screen, and physical. Applications will be accepted through August 26, 2026.
The City of Elmhurst is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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