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Contract Backhoe Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Granite

GPS Excavator Operator-Honey Grove, TX

Bonham, TX

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

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

Granite

GPS Excavator Operator-Honey Grove, TX

Rockwall, TX

$21 - $27.75/hr

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

Granite

GPS Excavator Operator-Honey Grove, TX

Mckinney, TX

$21 - $27.50/hr

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

Granite

GPS Excavator Operator-Honey Grove, TX

Commerce, TX

$21 - $27.75/hr

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

Granite Construction, Inc.

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

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

JCB North America

Indirect Buyer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating 23 manufacturing facilities across four continents-including the United States, the ... These include telescopic handlers, backhoe loaders, excavators, wheel loaders, compact excavators ...

jcb

Indirect Buyer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating 23 manufacturing facilities across four continents--including the United States, the ... These include telescopic handlers, backhoe loaders, excavators, wheel loaders, compact excavators ...

Turner Construction

Iron Worker

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

... operators to lift and position structural-steel members. * Pull, push, or pry structural-steel ... Operate equipment including forklifts, backhoe, skid steer, excavator, compactors, and construction ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsContract Backhoe Operator JobsContract Backhoe Operator Jobs in Texas

Contract Backhoe Operator information

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 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 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 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 for specific jobs or work on a project basis, which can increase overall earnings. Certification and familiarity with various machinery can lead to higher-paying opportunities.

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 proper certifications and knowledge of equipment, and job opportunities can vary based on regional construction activity and economic conditions.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Roadway Maintenance Tech/Equipment Operator/Inspector IV or V

Texas Department of Transportation

Waxahachie, TX • On-site

$48K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Texas Department Of Transportation rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Information
As a Roadway Maintenance Technician/Equipment Operator/Inspector, you will play a vital role in inspection of and maintaining highways, repairing road surfaces, managing drainage systems, and operating heavy equipment to support critical infrastructure projects. If you are safety-focused, enjoy working as part of a dedicated team, and take pride in maintaining public roadways, this is an excellent opportunity to build a rewarding career with competitive benefits, professional growth, and job stability.
Position Title
Salary Grade/Range
Transportation Maintenance Tech IV
A19: $48,244 - $76,028
Transportation Maintenance Tech V
A20: $51,158 - $81,351
This position is for a Transportation Maintenance Tech VI or V. The Texas Department of Transportation reserves the sole right in determining the level of position based on the applicant's work experience, education, skill level, and all other appropriate factors, and based on business needs.
Benefits and Perks
At TxDOT, we value work-life balance and are committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive range of benefits and programs, including:
  • Retirement Plans
  • Alternative and/or Flexible Work Schedules
  • Paid Leave and Holidays
  • Health Premiums paid at 100% for Full-Time Employees
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Holistic Wellness Program with Leave Incentives
  • Career Development and Advancement Opportunities
  • Family-Friendly Policies and Programs

In 2024, TxDOT was recognized as a Best Place for Working Parents, and many of our offices statewide are also designated as Texas Mother-Friendly Worksites. These recognitions reflect our dedication to supporting families and promoting a healthy work-life balance.
For a complete list of our total compensation package please visit our Total Compensation Package website
To view benefits available to all State of Texas employees visit Benefits at a Glance | ERS (texas.gov)
Position Description
Transportation Maintenance Tech IV: Performs advanced transportation operations or maintenance support work such as complex maintenance contract inspection and/or material and process inspection; light and heavy equipment operation; roadway maintenance; preventative and minor maintenance on equipment; traffic control; helping the public during emergency situations; and training other employees. Employees at this level perform work independently on assignments; however, all unusual issues are referred to the supervisor.
Transportation Maintenance Tech V: Performs highly advanced transportation operations or maintenance support work such as complex maintenance contract inspection and/or material and process inspection; light and heavy equipment operation; roadway maintenance; preventative and minor maintenance on equipment; traffic control; helping the public during emergency situations; and training other employees. Employees at this level perform work independently on assignments; however, all unusual issues are referred to the supervisor.
Essential Duties:
Transportation Maintenance Tech IV
  • Inspects complex maintenance and construction-related work to include hot mix overlay to ensure compliance with safety,
    laws and regulations, contract specifications and departmental procedures.
  • Oversees complex maintenance and spot improvement contracts.
  • Performs pavement evaluations and operates data collection equipment.
  • Conducts tests of highway construction materials, makes calculations, and records results.
  • Identifies, analyzes, and implements solutions for complex maintenance problems.
  • Inspects barricades to ensure compliance with barricade standards.
  • Inspects traffic control devices and their placement at construction project sites for compliance with specifications for
    devices, safety laws, rules, regulations and the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
  • Maintains construction project records and/or bridge inspection records; processes related paperwork; reviews files for
    compliance with the bridge inspection Manual of Procedures.
  • Operates complex heavy equipment such as a motor grader, large excavator, heavy bulldozer, crane, herbicide truck, heavy
    asphalt paving machine, self-propelled asphalt distributor, and profiling/milling machine.
  • Operates heavy equipment such as a front-end loader one and a half cubic yards or more, tractor-trailer haul truck, large
    dragline, shovel, paint striper, and dump truck.
  • Operates light equipment such as a front-end loader one and a quarter cubic yards or less, pneumatic roller, rotary
    broom, spreader box, backhoe, street sweeper, and mower.
  • Performs preventive maintenance inspections (PMI), routine servicing and minor repairs on equipment and completes various
    required reports including time-keeping, equipment forms, inventory, accident forms, and PMI.
  • Sands or cleans bridges and roads, posts warning signs, helps the public and performs other work as directed during
    emergency situations such as floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, snowstorms, accidents, and hazardous material spills.
  • Trains other employees.
  • Inspects routine and non-routine maintenance contract construction methods and workmanship to ensure contractors build
    and maintain roadways, bridges, traffic signals and related highway structures in accordance with plans and specifications.
  • Performs other job responsibilities as assigned.

Transportation Maintenance Tech V
  • Consults with contractors' superintendent on work progress and maintenance problems; reviews equipment utilization data
    and time/cost estimates.
  • Oversees complex maintenance and spot improvement contracts and total maintenance, performance based, and/or bundled bid
    contracts.
  • Performs detail design and quantity checks for plans, specifications, and estimate (PS&E).
  • Serves as project leader responsible for maintenance construction inspection activities for large and/or complex maintenance construction projects or for multiple district projects.
  • Conducts tests of highway construction materials, makes calculations, and records results.
  • Identifies, analyzes, and implements solutions for complex maintenance problems.
  • Inspects barricades to ensure compliance with barricade standards.
  • Inspects complex maintenance and construction-related work to include hot mix overlay to ensure compliance with safety,
    laws and regulations, contract specifications and departmental procedures.
  • Inspects traffic control devices and their placement at construction project sites for compliance with specifications for
    devices, safety laws, rules, regulations and the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
  • Maintains construction project records and/or bridge inspection records; processes related paperwork; reviews files for
    compliance with the bridge inspection Manual of Procedures.
  • Operates complex heavy equipment such as a motor grader, large excavator, heavy bulldozer, crane, herbicide truck, heavy
    asphalt paving machine, self-propelled asphalt distributor, and profiling/milling machine.
  • Operates heavy equipment such as a front-end loader one and a half cubic yards or more, tractor-trailer haul truck, large
    dragline, shovel, paint striper, and dump truck.
  • Operates light equipment such as a front-end loader one and a quarter cubic yards or less, pneumatic roller, rotary
    broom, spreader box, backhoe, street sweeper, and mower.
  • Oversees complex maintenance and spot improvement contracts.
  • Performs pavement evaluations and operates data collection equipment.
  • Performs preventive maintenance inspections (PMI), routine servicing and minor repairs on equipment and completes various
    required reports including time-keeping, equipment forms, inventory, accident forms, and PMI.
  • Reviews and assists in the development of traffic control plans, coordinates with law enforcement agencies, monitors lane
    closures at construction sites, documents changes in the traffic control setup and coordinates with the Public Information
    Officer.
  • Reviews plans, enters data and updates, stores and maintains plans, specifications, and estimate (PS&E) documents and
    files; assists in PS&E processing for letting, to include reproducing and distributing documents.
  • Sands or cleans bridges and roads, posts warning signs, helps the public and performs other work as directed during
    emergency situations such as floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, snowstorms, accidents, and hazardous material spills.
  • May serve as a work crew project lead ensuring work performed meets project specifications.
  • Trains other employees.
  • Inspects routine and non-routine maintenance contract construction methods and workmanship to ensure contractors build
    and maintain roadways, bridges, traffic signals and related highway structures in accordance with plans and specifications.
  • Performs other job responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
None required
Experience:
Transportation Maintenance Tech IV: 3 years of experience in transportation engineering support, roadway maintenance, construction inspection, or related work experience. (Experience can be satisfied by full time or prorated part time equivalent) Related technical training or education from an accredited institution may be substituted for experience on a year per year basis. Substitutions for Minimum Qualifications
Transportation Maintenance Tech V: 4 years of experience in transportation engineering support, roadway maintenance, construction inspection, or related work experience. (Experience can be satisfied by full time or prorated part time equivalent) Related technical training or education from an accredited institution may be substituted for experience on a year per year basis. Substitutions for Minimum Qualifications
Licenses and Certifications:
Valid driver's license. This position requires driving a state vehicle.
Competencies:
Transportation Maintenance Tech IV
Extensive knowledge of
  • Basic traffic management and control procedures
  • Maintenance concepts, methods, policies and requirements
  • Applicable inspection methods, procedures and techniques
  • Materials used in highway/bridge construction and maintenance
  • The Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
  • Applicable industry safety standards, guidelines, and specification codes

Expert skill in
  • Performing calculations to include material and labor estimates, expenses, technical survey data and engineering
    calculations
  • Maintaining a safe and effective working relationship with others

Proficient skill in
  • Monitoring contracts and procedures
  • Preparing and maintaining confidential and sensitive records, files, and reports
  • Using computers, applicable programs, applications, and systems

Ability to
  • Communicate effectively
  • Follow verbal and written instructions

Transportation Maintenance Tech V
Extensive knowledge of
  • Transportation principles and methods for moving people or goods by multimodal (road, air, water) methods, including
    their relative costs, advantages and limitations
  • Applicable plans, specifications and estimates preparation, review, processing and compliance requirements
  • Applicable inspection methods, procedures and techniques
  • Materials used in highway/bridge construction and maintenance
  • Basic traffic management and control procedures, their relative costs, advantages and limitations
  • Applicable plans, specifications and estimates preparation, review, processing and compliance requirements
  • Applicable inspection methods, procedures and techniques
  • Materials used in highway/bridge construction and maintenance
  • Basic traffic management and control procedures
  • The Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
  • Maintenance concepts, methods, policies and requirements
  • Applicable industry safety standards, guidelines, and specification codes

Expert skill in
  • Coordinating labor, materials, and equipment
  • Performing calculations to include material and labor estimates, expenses, technical survey data and engineering
    calculations
  • Using applicable hand and power tools, equipment, and mechanical devices of the trade
  • Operating light and heavy highway equipment
  • Maintaining a safe and effective working relationship with others

Proficient skill in
  • Planning, coordinating and handling multiple projects within area of responsibility to meet short and long-term deadlines
  • Analyzing, organizing, and communicating business and technical data
  • Preparing and maintaining confidential and sensitive records, files, and reports
  • Using computers, applicable programs, applications, and systems
  • Monitoring contracts and procedures

Ability to
  • Communicate effectively
  • Follow verbal and written instructions
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Subject to extreme cold and heat; below 32 and/or above 100 degrees for more than one hour
  • Subject to noise
  • Subject to vibration
  • Required to wear protective gear-respirator, hard hat, or other device
  • Medium work: Lift up to 50 lbs at a time and frequently lift or carry objects up to 25 lbs
  • Balancing-walking, standing, crouching on various surfaces without falling
  • Stooping-bending body downward and forward by bending spine at waist
  • Standing-prolonged periods of time
  • Walking-moving on foot to ac

What Texas Department Of Transportation employees say

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Benefits

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