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Commission Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs in Modesto, CA

Should be physically fit, capable of lifting heavy items up to 100 lbs. and operating machinery ... commissions, car allowance or automobile and fuel program, and reimbursement for travel expenses in ...

Rooftop Loader

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $24.42/hr

Should be physically fit, capable of lifting heavy items up to 100 lbs. and operating machinery ... commissions, car allowance or automobile and fuel program, and reimbursement for travel expenses in ...

Enhancement Crew Lead (ELC Manteca)

Manteca, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Experience running equipment (skid steer, excavator, backhoe, etc.) * Able to read architectural ... Be at least 18 years old (21 if operating company provided vehicles) * Possess strong stamina and ...

Commission Backhoe Loader Operator information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$34.8K

$60.1K

$92.8K

How much do commission backhoe loader operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for commission backhoe loader operator in Modesto, CA is $60,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,100.00 and $64,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a commission backhoe loader operator?

To thrive as a Commission Backhoe Loader Operator, you need strong equipment operation skills, a valid heavy equipment operator's license, and thorough knowledge of safety regulations. Familiarity with backhoe machinery, maintenance tools, and sometimes GPS or site management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication help operators work safely and efficiently within a team. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe, timely, and precise completion of construction or excavation projects.

What is a commission backhoe loader operator?

Commission Backhoe Loader Operators are skilled professionals who operate backhoe loaders—heavy construction equipment used for tasks like excavation, digging, backfilling, and material moving—on a commission or contract basis. Instead of being regular company employees, they are often paid per job or project, offering their services to construction firms, municipalities, or private clients. Their duties include maneuvering the backhoe loader safely, performing routine maintenance checks, and ensuring work is completed efficiently and according to specifications. Safety, precision, and knowledge of machinery are critical skills for this role.

What is the difference between Commission Backhoe Loader Operator vs Construction Equipment Operator?

AspectCommission Backhoe Loader OperatorConstruction Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, excavation projectsConstruction sites, various heavy machinery operations
Job DutiesOperate backhoe loaders for digging, trenching, loadingOperate various heavy machinery including bulldozers, excavators

The main difference is that a Commission Backhoe Loader Operator specializes in operating backhoe loaders, focusing on excavation and loading tasks, often under specific commission-based projects. In contrast, a Construction Equipment Operator may handle a variety of heavy machinery across different construction tasks. Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction environments, but their scope of equipment operation varies.

What are some common challenges faced by commission backhoe loader operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Commission Backhoe Loader Operators often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling unexpected ground obstructions, and adhering to tight project timelines. To manage these, operators must be adaptable, maintain a strong focus on safety protocols, and communicate effectively with site supervisors and team members. Regular equipment inspections and proactive maintenance also help minimize downtime, ensuring smooth operations on the job site.
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Commission Backhoe Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Commission Backhoe Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Commission Backhoe Loader Operator job openings in Modesto, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,085 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

$17 - $24/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Roto-Rooter rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

180th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview

Excavator Operator

Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.

If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator, especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements at our East Bay branch, located in Livermore, CA.  The average earnings for this position are between $75,000-$100,000, depending on experience. 

Responsibilities
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job sites.
  • Load, unload and secure equipment on transport trailers according to guidelines.
  • Follow OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with a crew to efficiently complete excavation work on various projects.
  • Interact with customers as needed, providing excellent customer service and addressing their requirements professionally.
  • Maintain excavation equipment and gather all necessary equipment from the branch and/or rental companies to ensure smooth operations during excavation tasks.
  • Perform excavation work in confined spaces and open trenches, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Locate and arrive at job sites promptly, ensuring safe driving and operation of service vehicles between locations.
Requirements
  • Essential requirement: Construction experience in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Mandatory requirement: Possession of a current CDL Class A license for this position.
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, as required for the role.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines.

Service technicians are paid an hourly rate of $17.00 to $24.00 during training. After training, they are paid an hourly rate at or above the minimum wage for all hours worked. The hourly pay rate may vary, depending on whether the pay is for base pay paid at the employee's base hourly rate (minimum wage), or administrative pay for administrative hours worked (between minimum wage and $77.92) . Service technicians also have the potential to earn commissions at the rate of 16-22% of revenue depending on the revenue category.  Commissions ranging from $10 to $139 can also be earned for selling products and treatments.

Benefits

At Roto-Rooter we believe our greatest investment is in our employees.  We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That's why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:

  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout our 86 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are a great fit at our company.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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Employment Type: OTHER

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