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Contract Backhoe Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Contract Backhoe Operator information

Is there demand for contract backhoe operators?

Contract backhoe operators are in demand in construction, infrastructure, and excavation projects, especially during peak building seasons. Employers seek experienced operators with valid certifications and knowledge of equipment maintenance, and job opportunities are often available through staffing agencies and online job boards.

How much money can I make with a contract backhoe operator?

Contract backhoe operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Some operators may also charge a flat rate per project or day, which can vary widely based on the scope of work and contractual terms.

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

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 is a contract backhoe operator?

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Kansas? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Contract Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Contract Backhoe Operator job openings:

Utility Construction Foreman (8KS.26)

American States Water Company

Fort Riley, KS • On-site

$33.95 - $57.71/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, American States Utility Services, Inc. contracts with the federal government to provide water and wastewater services that include operating, maintaining, renewing, replacing, and constructing new systems on military installations throughout the United States. The installations where we presently operate are home to nearly 350,000 military and civilian personnel and families.
We proudly deliver these vital services to military installations in Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas (including southeastern New Mexico), Virginia, Florida, Kansas, and Massachusetts.
Serving those who serve.
United States Veterans, Reservists, National Guard Members, and Military Spouses encouraged to apply.
PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS:
• Under close supervision, performs activities related to all phases of water and wastewater system utility construction.
• Prepare work plans, schedule, direct and supervise work crews and subcontractors to assure maximum efficiency
• Assess look-ahead schedules and identify needs, material management, deficiencies and potential conflicts
• Collect field data and maintain daily and weekly construction progress, inspection, and erosion control reports electronically
• Observes and complies with all Federal, State and Company safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Reports all unsafe conditions and actions to a Supervisor and/or Manager.
• Performs physical construction including, but not limited to, excavating trenches, pipe laying, backfilling excavations, compacting soil to grade specifications using a variety of manual or pneumatic tools.
• Responsible for overseeing water and wastewater line testing including but not limited to chlorination and pressure testing.
• Focus on quality and quality management
• Performs all work in a safe, efficient manner, following all standards of performance. Work is repetitive and continuous.
• Responsible for ensuring safe working conditions including trench safety and bracing.
• Conduct weekly safety meetings with crew
• Responsible for constructing and maintaining erosion control and traffic control devices as required and as directed.
• Loads, unloads, identifies and distributes utility materials to the appropriate location, according to project plans and specifications• Signals equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement and adjustment of machinery, equipment and materials
• May operate heavy machinery including dump truck, bush-hog and right-of-way clearing equipment and backhoe, as well as other related equipment, in performing skilled and semiskilled duties for water and wastewater construction.
• Responsible for performing pre-shift /pre-trip inspections and filling out respective reports.
• Responsible for inspecting work performed by construction workers to ensure it meets all ASUS and Installation standards and specs as well as regulatory requirements
• Performs customer support activity and interacts with the public in a professional manner.
• Cleans and prepares construction sites to eliminate possible hazards
• Performs other duties as assigned
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
• High school diploma or GED required
• Five (5) years of prior water and wastewater system construction experience preferred
• Two (2) years of supervisory experience on construction projects preferred
• Basic computer skills
• Strong communication and organizational skills with attention to detail
• Heavy equipment operation and instruction preferred
• Strong knowledge of utility plans and specifications
• Proficient skill with lasers, line and grade, excavation and dewatering
• Training on GIS data collection preferred
• Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License issued by the state where employed
• Must be a United States Citizen
• Working knowledge of general hand tools and power tools required
• Must take and pass Federal OSHA and or State Mandated Safety training with annual refresher courses as required by the associated regulations for this Position. Such training will be provided by company and compliance is mandatory
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Work in extreme weather conditions
• Lift and carry loads up to 50lbs and push or pull up to 100lbs
• Work in confined spaces
• Work in areas exposed to noise and chemicals
• Standing, sitting, walking, lifting, carrying, pushing/puling, reaching, handling, fine dexterity, kneeling, crouching, crawling, bending, twisting, climbing, balancing, vision, hearing, talking, hand & foot controls
The above job description is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills or competencies associated with this job.
BENEFITS
Our Company supports our employees with rich benefit programs and resources to help them thrive today and prepare for tomorrow. Benefit options include medical, dental, and vision plans with the Company currently paying 85% of the monthly premium for employees and their eligible dependents. We also offer paid vacation and sick time and twelve Company paid holidays per year. To help our employees plan for the future, we offer both a 401(k) retirement plan as well as a Defined Contribution Profit Sharing retirement plan. Additional benefits include life, AD&D, and LTD insurance as well as health savings account and flexible spending plans.
COMPENSATION INFORMATION
The compensation range provided is in compliance with state specific laws. Multiple factors are used to determine the actual starting rate of pay for all of our positions, including specific skills, years of experience, education, certification(s), and other job related factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required pursuant to our contract with the federal government.
The responsibilities of this position will involve access to information that may be considered confidential, private and sensitive. Therefore, the individual filling this position will be required to both allow and pass a background check.
NOTE: Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with special needs to perform the essential functions.