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Contract Backhoe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ZTEX Construction

Backhoe Operator- Gas Lines

El Paso, TX · On-site

$42.10K - $55.60K/yr

Job Summary A gas line backhoe operator digs trenches and areas for gas line repairs through the ... If applicable to the contract, you may also be required to submit through a background check. Must ...

Bauer Underground

Equipment Operator

Norfolk, NE

$50K - $85K/yr

Backhoe Operator. * Dump Truck Operator. * Tractor Operator. * Track Hoe Operator. * Vacuum Truck ... every job we contract for. Bauer Underground is a state-wide Utility Installation General ...

Bauer Underground

Equipment Operator

Lincoln, NE

$50K - $85K/yr

Backhoe Operator. * Dump Truck Operator. * Tractor Operator. * Track Hoe Operator. * Vacuum Truck ... every job we contract for. Bauer Underground is a state-wide Utility Installation General ...

Bauer Underground, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Norfolk, NE

$50K - $85K/yr

Backhoe Operator. * Dump Truck Operator. * Tractor Operator. * Track Hoe Operator. * Vacuum Truck ... every job we contract for. Bauer Underground is a state-wide Utility Installation General ...

Bauer Underground, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$50K - $85K/yr

Backhoe Operator. * Dump Truck Operator. * Tractor Operator. * Track Hoe Operator. * Vacuum Truck ... every job we contract for. Bauer Underground is a state-wide Utility Installation General ...

Bauer Underground, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$50K - $85K/yr

Backhoe Operator. * Dump Truck Operator. * Tractor Operator. * Track Hoe Operator. * Vacuum Truck ... every job we contract for. Bauer Underground is a state-wide Utility Installation General ...

Bauer Underground, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$50K - $85K/yr

Backhoe Operator. * Dump Truck Operator. * Tractor Operator. * Track Hoe Operator. * Vacuum Truck ... every job we contract for. Bauer Underground is a state-wide Utility Installation General ...

Oscar Health

Critical Environments Operator IV

Sterling, VA

$46.10K - $60.90K/yr

Experienced with subcontractor and vendor contract management * Experienced with managing key performance indicators as provided by Assistant or Chief Engineer * Experienced with capacity planning ...

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How much do contract backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract backhoe operator in the United States is $56,952.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Backhoe Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Backhoe Operator, you need expertise in heavy equipment operation, understanding of construction site safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with backhoe machinery, GPS surveying tools, and proper certification or licensing for heavy equipment operation are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient, and accurate execution of excavation and construction projects.

What are some typical challenges Contract Backhoe Operators face when working on multiple job sites?

Contract Backhoe Operators often encounter challenges related to adapting to different site conditions and project requirements. Each site may have unique soil types, space constraints, or safety protocols, requiring operators to quickly assess and adjust their techniques. Coordinating with various teams, such as site supervisors and other equipment operators, is essential to maintain productivity and safety. Additionally, managing equipment maintenance across multiple locations can be demanding but is crucial to minimize downtime.

What are Contract Backhoe Operators?

Contract Backhoe Operators are skilled professionals who operate backhoe machinery on a contract basis, typically for construction, excavation, or demolition projects. They are responsible for digging, moving earth, and handling materials efficiently and safely according to project specifications. Unlike full-time employees, contract operators are usually hired for specific jobs or periods, providing flexibility for both employers and operators. They must have proper training, certifications, and often their own equipment to perform the work. Their expertise is essential for projects that require precise earthmoving and site preparation.

What is the difference between Contract Backhoe Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectContract Backhoe OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsOSHA certification, CDL often preferredOSHA certification, specialized excavator training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility work, landscapingConstruction sites, demolition, mining
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, contractorsConstruction, mining, infrastructure

The Contract Backhoe Operator and Excavator Operator roles share similar certifications and work environments, often overlapping in construction and utility projects. The main difference lies in equipment specialization: backhoe operators handle versatile backhoe loaders, while excavator operators focus on larger, more specialized excavators. Both roles are essential in construction and excavation projects, with similar credential requirements and industry usage.

What cities are hiring for Contract Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities with the most Contract Backhoe Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Backhoe Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Backhoe Operator jobs include:
Contract Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Backhoe Operator- Gas Lines

Backhoe Operator- Gas Lines

ZTEX Construction

El Paso, TX • On-site

$42.10K - $55.60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Salary: Depending on Experience (DOE)

ZTEX Construction is a heavy civil contractor specializing in earthwork, concrete, asphalt paving, underground utilities, and overall project management. We are locally owned, and we are in search of a Gas Line Backhoe Operator with experience who is talented, hardworking, willing to learn, be a team player and with a great attitude.


Job Summary


A gas line backhoe operator digs trenches and areas for gas line repairs through the city and county of El Paso. The operator ensures safety by locating underground utilities and following safety procedures. The job also includes backfilling holes, assisting technicians with repairs, loading and transporting materials, and performing routine maintenance on the equipment.


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Safely operate a backhoe for tasks like trenching, digging, and backfilling for gas line installation and repair.
  • Locate and identify underground utility lines to prevent damage.
  • Perform pre-operation checks and routine maintenance on the backhoe, such as servicing and cleaning.
  • Coordinate with other crew members, responding to hand or audio signals.
  • Assist other technicians with repairs or new installations.
  • Backfill holes, grade the area, and perform cleanup after work is completed.
  • Maintain equipment, check fuel levels, and stock the service truck with necessary parts.
  • Keep records of material or equipment usage and report any significant problems.
  • Adhere to all safety protocols and site-specific procedures.


Requirements

  • You must demonstrate proven experience operating a backhoe and ideally in gas line work.
  • Must have knowledge and fully understand the utility color code.
  • Strong understanding of safety procedures and the ability to work in potentially hazardous environments.
  • Physical ability to operate heavy equipment for extended periods and in various weather conditions.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting on equipment.
  • High school diploma or GED is often preferred.


Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

  • Must be work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the outdoor elements, heat/cold temperatures, wind, rain, blowing dust.
  • Able to work around moving equipment and tolerate loud noise levels.
  • Bend and stoop repeatedly throughout the day.
  • Able to push, pull and lift 50+lbs.
  • Able to walk and stand for long periods of time.
  • Able to walk on rough, rocky and uneven surfaces at construction sites.



Additional Qualifying Factors

As a condition of employment, you will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screening and physical screening. If applicable to the contract, you may also be required to submit through a background check. Must have reliable transportation to/from work and must have a valid driver's licenseat time of application.

ZTEX Construction Inc.,is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, or gender-identity, age, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability, pregnancy or parental status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

We participate in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.

We are a drug free workplace.