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Contract Backhoe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operator - Gas

Stoughton, MA

$23.50 - $30.25/hr

Riley Brothers, LLC is looking for skilled Skid Steer and Backhoe Operators experienced with the ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

Operator - Gas

Stoughton, MA

$23.50 - $30.25/hr

Riley Brothers, LLC is looking for skilled Skid Steer and Backhoe Operators experienced with the ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

Riley Brothers, LLC is looking for skilled Skid Steer and Backhoe Operators experienced with the ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

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Contract Backhoe Operator information

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$33K

$57K

$88K

How much do contract backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 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.

Can you make 100k a year as a heavy equipment operator?

Contract backhoe operators can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or regions. However, typical salaries vary widely based on location, project complexity, certifications, and hours worked, with many earning between $50,000 and $80,000 per year.

What is the going rate for backhoe work per hour?

Contract backhoe operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates may be higher for operators with specialized skills or certifications and can vary based on the job environment and contractual terms.

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 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 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.

Is there demand for backhoe operators?

Backhoe operators are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and maintenance work. Employers seek skilled operators with certifications and experience to operate heavy machinery safely and efficiently, especially in regions with active development projects.

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.

How much money can I make with a backhoe?

A contract backhoe operator typically earns between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Annual salaries can range from $30,000 to $70,000 or more, especially with specialized skills or certifications. Wages may also vary based on whether the work is seasonal or full-time.
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:
Backhoe Operator - Concrete/Restoration

Backhoe Operator - Concrete/Restoration

Peak Utility Services Group

Wrentham, MA โ€ข On-site

$51K - $67K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Backhoe Operator - Concrete/Restoration

Peak Utility Infrastructure is an integrated engineering and construction company that serves the Electric, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications industries. We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services, including repair, replacement, maintenance, and installation of natural gas, telecommunications, and electric infrastructure through our operating subsidiaries: SiteWise, Kelly Cable, Riley Brothers, 5 Star Electric, Superior Hydrovac and Superior Pipeline Services.

Position Title: Operator - Backhoe

Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

Classification: Non-Exempt

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Operates, maneuvers, and navigates heavy equipment (backhoes)
  • Uses either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes
  • Inspects equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects
  • Uses relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards and communicates abnormal working conditions to appropriate parties
  • Provides mid-level laborer functions including hand digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety sensitive utility construction sites
  • Proficient with utility print and map reading
  • Has performed at least 6 months of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini); knows all safety regulations with basic operating skills
  • Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs
  • Exposes underground utilities manually
  • Conducts post-job quality checks
  • Cleans, checks fluid levels and conducts a visual inspection of equipment to assure your equipment is performing at optimum safety and the required paperwork
  • Communicates with supervisor daily to turn in required paperwork
  • Perform other tasks as required

Success Factors:

  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse climatic conditions.
  • Ability to lift up to 80 lbs multiple times during a work shift
  • Ability to climb, dig, work in tight spaces, on uneven surfaces, walking, stooping, and kneeling
  • Ability to understand and follow specific oral and written instructions
  • Ability to work well independently and as a part of a team with co-workers
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle, criminal background check, and comply with drug-free workplace policy
  • English usage sufficient to keep records, place orders, and prepare simple narrative reports
  • Willingness and ability to learn additional skills

Experience and Education:

  • One (1+) plus years of experience in backhoe/mini excavator operation is required
  • One (1+) plus years of experience digging and working around restoration and underground utilities is required
  • Two (2+) plus years of demonstrated experience in dry utilities preferred
  • Experience reading basic prints and Underground Facility Location Sketch is preferred
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-to-year basis

Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications:

  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid State of Residence Driver's License is required within two weeks of employment.
  • Candidates must pass criminal and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) background checks and pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Notes:

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.