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Contract Backhoe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RightStone

Cemetery Specialist

Weslaco, TX · On-site

$12.50/hr

... 2 months contract (temp to perm opportunity). This is a hands-on outdoor role that plays an ... Backhoe operator experience required * Valid driver's license required * Reliable transportation

City of Logan

Equipment Operator II

Logan, UT · On-site

$23.01 - $27.07/hr

Under general supervision, operates a backhoe and other small to medium-size motorized equipment in ... or contract rights to any person(s). This updated supersedes prior descriptions for the same ...

Riley Brothers

Skid Steer Operator

Stoughton, MA

One to Two years (1-2) experience operating backhoe * High school diploma or equivalent desired ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

Riley Brothers

Skid Steer Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

One to Two years (1-2) experience operating backhoe * High school diploma or equivalent desired ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

Rocky Mountain Contractors, Inc

Equipment Operator

Helena, MT · On-site

$26.64 - $33.22/hr

... backhoe, forklift, or excavator - excludes operation of cranes. Employee maybe subject to operating ... Wage is per the Montana Communications contract. IBEW Locals 206, 532, 768 | Pay Range is based on ...

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How much do contract backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 and Mini Excavator Operator (CDL) - Q3C CO

Backhoe and Mini Excavator Operator (CDL) - Q3C CO

Primoris

Commerce City, CO

$20.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Primoris Services rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 77 rated construction

Job description

Primoris Services Corporation is a leading provider of critical infrastructure services to the utility, energy, and renewables markets throughout the United States and Canada.

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation, is a publicly owned and operated construction contracting company that provides both specific and turnkey services for its customers in the gas, oil, electric and telecommunications industry. We are headquartered in Minnesota, with branch offices in Colorado, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

We are actively hiring for an Equipment Operator who will be responsible for safely and effectively operating equipment, specifically the backhoe and mini excavator, for the installation of underground utilities. This position will also perform equipment inspections and may be required to perform daily maintenance of equipment. Frequent travel throughout the Denver Metro area is required. Fleets are located at our Commerce City, Colorado and Dove Valley, Colorado offices.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Capable of tolerating sitting for long periods of time (up to entire workday) while operating equipment, including the constant use of hand and foot controls.
  • Must be able to maneuver under and over the equipment, as well as climb vertical steps into the cabs of machinery.
  • Must be able to operate Backhoe and Mini Excavator.
  • Ability to drive on a stop and start basis daily and continually.
  • Lifting, placing materials, standing, walking, turning, stooping, kneeling, crawling, reaching, crouching, speaking and hearing are required continuously.
  • Close vision is required for some functions and distance, and peripheral vision is required for safety.
  • Must be willing to work overtime as dictated by workload volumes.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Working experience in the utility distribution industry

 

Job Requirements:

  • CDL A
  • Fed Med Card
  • Requires technical thinking, and the ability to read standards and schematics.
  • Ability to follow company policies and procedures.
  • Must possess and maintain an appropriate and valid driver’s license
  • Willing to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other safety regulations.
  • Previous construction experience in any of the following areas: natural gas distribution/pipeline, electric, transmission, telecommunications, water, sewer, landscaping, concrete/asphalt, or agricultural.
  • Able to work outside in various weather conditions such as extreme heat and cold temperatures.
  • Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 LBS and safely perform other physical work.
  • Travel to job locations within the Denver Metro area is required.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Q3 Contracting is a drug-free environment, and all candidates are subject to drug testing.

Compensation and Benefits: 

This is a union position, which means additional benefits may be offered directly through the union. Some benefits may include health insurance, apprenticeship and skilled training, continuing education, pension plans, and other resources. For more information, contact the local union.

  • Pay and benefits determined by union contract; pay starting at $20.37/hour
  • Competitive compensation paid weekly
  • Company vehicle provided
  • Paid sick leave as required by Colorado’s Healthy Families and Workplaces Act

 

Qualified Veterans, Minorities and Women encouraged to apply.

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