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Commission Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs in Scranton, PA

Operates backhoe, bulldozer, and Gradall to excavate foundations for concrete work, dig drainage ... Operates trucks, mowers, loaders, rollers and other types of construction and maintenance equipment ...

Operates backhoe, bulldozer, and Gradall ® to excavate foundations for concrete work, dig drainage ... Operates trucks, mowers, loaders, rollers and other types of construction and maintenance equipment ...

Commission Backhoe Loader Operator information

See Scranton, PA salary details

$32.7K

$56.4K

$87.1K

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for commission backhoe loader operator in Scranton, PA is $56,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $60,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities near Scranton, PA are hiring for Commission Backhoe Loader Operator jobs?

Cities near Scranton, PA with the most Commission Backhoe Loader Operator job openings:

Equipment Operator

Luzerne County

Wilkes Barre, PA • On-site

$41K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Luzerne County rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

278th of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description This is skilled operation of heavy construction equipment in the maintenance of county roads, bridges, levees and parks. An employee in this class operates a variety of complex and specialized equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, graders, post drivers, traffic line painting machines, and other equipment of similar complexity. When operating duties are not required, employees also operate trucks and less complex equipment, and perform manual laboring duties.

Employees are normally responsible for performing preventive maintenance operations on the equipment they operate and for reporting other needed maintenance to mechanics. Employees may be assigned to direct laborers or other operators in the performance of individual assignments. Work assignments are made by a foreman and are normally carried out without detailed instructions, in accordance with established procedures and standards, using efficient operating techniques.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Operates grader to berm roads and construct grades. Operates backhoe, bulldozer, and Gradall to excavate foundations for concrete work, dig drainage ditches, or form embankments. Operates trucks, mowers, loaders, rollers and other types of construction and maintenance equipment as required.

Performs manual work on assigned projects when not operating equipment. Checks equipment for proper operating condition. Assists in the operation of heavy construction equipment as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of the proper operating procedures and safety practices associated with trucks and construction equipment. Ability to recognize defective operation of equipment and perform routine maintenance operations. Knowledge of state laws pertaining to the operation of motor vehicles on highways.

Skill in the operation of assigned equipment. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Travels to work sites and performs around hazardous situations such as moving heavy equipment, in and around equipment, at heights, on steep grades, and on ladders and uneven surfaces.

Employee performs required preoperation safety checks of assigned equipment fluids, tires, lights, hoses and gauges. Makes visual observations, manual adjustments, reports findings in written or oral formats, when necessary. Employee mounts equipment, operates a variety of hand and foot controls, utilizes seat belts, demonstrates visual depth and peripheral acuity, and installs or removes tire chains on dual wheels.

In the performance of manual laboring duties, employee must lift and carry supplies up to 50 pounds for at least 20 yards, uses shovel to dig or spread material, uses rakes, hammers picks, chain saws, jack hammers, compactors, air compressors, bolts, unbolts or erects signs, operates stop and go paddles, places lanes markers, cones, lights, etc., to protect work zones, and picks up litter. These duties all commonly involve repetitive actions and motions such as grasping, reaching, twisting, pushing, and pulling. Work must be performed under a range of weather conditions including extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, or ice, exposure to poisonous plants, animals, or insects and a variety of potential injuries such as bruises, cuts, scrapes, sprains, and strains

Must be capable of wearing appropriate protective gear such as hard hats, protective shoes, aprons, gloves, and eye wear. Performs other related duties as required. Minimum Qualifications Valid Pennsylvania Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with the air brake restriction removed, and the requirement to obtain a valid Pennsylvania Class "A" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with the air brake restriction removed within 6 months from the date of hire an/or placement in job.

Complies with all requirements of the Federal Drug and Alcohol Testing program. Must have a minimum of two years' experience as a truck driver and/or equipment operator. "LUZERNE COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY & AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER."


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