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Backhoe Jobs in Riverside, CA (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 · 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 ...

Team Fishel

Construction Laborer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... backhoe operation, drill locating, and safety planning 4. Perform physical job requirements to help safely install underground fiber optic cable in an outdoor environment 5. Occasional travel ...

Caltek Technologies

Low Voltage Estimator

Ontario, CA · On-site

Aerial, directional boring, backhoe, trenching, and plowing operations as well as digger and bucket truck operations. * Maintain a professional appearance, positive attitude, and exceptional work ...

BrightView

Enhancement Crew Leader

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Experience running equipment (skid steer, excavator, backhoe, etc.) * Able to read architectural drawings * Strong leadership skills * Able to work well with others * Reliable transportation Physical ...

Qcells

Substation Electrician III

Irvine, CA · On-site

Ability to operate various types of heavy equipment (backhoe, trencher, excavator, bulldozer, skid steer). * Familiarity with substation equipment and materials. * Strong understanding of safety ...

Qcells

Substation Electrician III

Irvine, CA · On-site

Ability to operate various types of heavy equipment (backhoe, trencher, excavator, bulldozer, skid steer). * Familiarity with substation equipment and materials. * Strong understanding of safety ...

CEMEX

Operator Equipment

Rialto, CA

This would include, but not limited to, front end loaders, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and haul truck. Job Responsibilities * All Equipment Operators are responsible for daily or pre-shift ...

CEMEX

Operator Equipment

Rialto, CA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

This would include, but not limited to, front end loaders, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and haul truck. Job Responsibilities * All Equipment Operators are responsible for daily or pre-shift ...

Herzog

Equipment Operator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$43.05/hr

Operates and performs operator-level maintenance of several types of heavy equipment including end loaders, backhoe tractors, bulldozers, road graders, and specialized track equipment. * Operates ...

Herzog

Equipment Operator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$43.05/hr

Operates and performs operator-level maintenance of several types of heavy equipment including end loaders, backhoe tractors, bulldozers, road graders, and specialized track equipment. * Operates ...

All JobsBackhoe JobsBackhoe Jobs in Riverside, CA

Backhoe information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$34.4K

$59.4K

$91.8K

How much do backhoe jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhoe in Riverside, CA is $59,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $64,200.00 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.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Backhoe jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Backhoe job openings:
Backhoe jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backhoe job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,416 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Lead Excavator Operator/Backhoe Operator

Cass Arrieta

San Bernardino, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Cass Arrieta is a General Engineering Contractor specializing in wet utilities, dry utilities, structural concrete, and associated scopes of work within the public and private markets.  With a combined total of more than $750 million of pipeline and structural concrete work completed to date, Cass Arrieta specializes in water-sewer-storm drain pipelines, dry utilities, pump stations, pipeline assessment, water and waste-water facilities, water reservoirs, emergency work, and slope reconstruction.  There are numerous General Engineering Contractors in Southern California but we separate ourselves with superior service, quality of work, and integrity.

With projects spanning across Southern California, the career opportunities at Cass Arrieta are always evolving. 

As a company we believe our most important asset is our employees.  We strive to provide industry leading benefits that provide them a secure and better future. 

We can provide the security and benefits of a large corporation yet still embrace our family owned culture.

Job Description

Cass Arrieta is seeking EXPERIENCED Lead Excavator/Backhoe Operators. Must be experienced in deep sewer mainline sloped trench excavating, OR experienced in dry utility joint trench mainline excavating.

Minimum 3 years experience, please do not apply if you do not have at least 3 or more years of experience.

We must be able to verify references, you will be tested on equipment prior to hiring.

Must pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Submit resumes or call for application

Job locations will be located throughout the Inland Empire

Job Type: Full-time

Competitive Wages based on experience

COVID-19 considerations:
To keep everyone safe masks are required at all times.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

  • Construction Experience: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Preferred)

Work Location:

  • Multiple locations throughout the Inland Empire 

Work Remotely:

  • No

COVID-19 Precaution(s):

  • Social distancing guidelines in place
  • Sanitizing, disinfecting, or cleaning procedures in place

EOE/Disabilities/Veterans