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Contract Backhoe Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

ZTEX Construction

Heavy Machine Operator

El Paso, TX · On-site

Operates backhoe and front-end loaders as required. * Operates forklifts, water trucks, dump trucks ... If applicable to the contract, you may also be required to submit through a background check. Must ...

Granite Construction, Inc.

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Mission, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite

Excavator Operator

Humble, TX

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite Construction

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Mission, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite Construction

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Irving, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Lubbock, TX

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Honey Grove, TX

$20.25 - $27/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Childress, TX

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite Construction

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Honey Grove, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite Construction, Inc.

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Forney, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

Granite Construction, Inc.

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Irving, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

General Summary Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes ... contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Granite will not pay a fee to any ...

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All JobsContract Backhoe Operator JobsContract Backhoe Operator Jobs in Texas

Contract Backhoe Operator information

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 duration of the contract.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

Contract backhoe operators can earn around $700 a day, especially when working on large construction projects or with specialized equipment. High daily pay often requires experience, certifications, and the ability to work long hours or in remote locations.

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.

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 approximately $30,000 to $70,000, with higher pay often associated with specialized skills or certifications. Wages may also vary based on whether the work is seasonal or full-time.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Backhoe Operator jobs in Texas are:
Contract Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Backhoe Operator job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Certified Backhoe Equipment Operator

Certified Backhoe Equipment Operator

ZTEX Construction

El Paso, TX • On-site

$42K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

ZTEX Construction is a heavy civil contractor specializing in earthwork, concrete, asphalt paving, underground utilities, and overall project management. We are an El Paso born and raised company, and we are currently an experienced Backhoe Operator, this is not an entry level position.  We are searching for someone with proven experience specifically in tight, city streets. If this is you, then apply Now!


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operator backhoe / excavator to perform digging, trenching and backfilling activities.
  • Follow project plans and instructions from Foreman or Supervisor.
  • Safely maneuver equipment in and around cars, trees, job sites, utilities, and other team members.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance checks.
  • Assist with other tasks as directed by the Foreman or Supervisor.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area and equipment.
  • Follow all OSHA, company safety policies and procedures, including use of Stop-Work Authority when necessary.


Requirements

  • Have at minimum 2 years' experience of operating Backhoe in city streets. 
  • Have a full understanding of the line locating requirements, ONE CALL Centers 811
  • Be able to use line locating equipment
  • Willingness to perform any and all tasks associated with general pipeline maintenance or as directed by Foreman, Supervisor or Customer Personnel
  • Be able to communicate orally and written in English


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
• Sit, bend, pull up and down from machinery and stoop repeatedly throughout the day
• Able to push, pull and lift 50+lbs
• • 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 license at 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.