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Entry Level Backhoe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SiteWise

Operator I Pipeline

Henderson, CO

$32 - $40/hr

... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety ... Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs. * Exposes underground ...

SiteWise

Operator I Pipeline

Henderson, CO · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety ... Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs. * Exposes underground ...

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Entry Level Backhoe Operator information

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How much do entry level backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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.

How much do entry level excavators make?

Entry-level backhoe operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location, company, and experience. Starting salaries may increase with additional certifications or skills in operating different machinery or working in specialized environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Backhoe Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectEntry Level Backhoe OperatorExcavator Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic equipment operationOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility work, landscapingConstruction sites, excavation projects, infrastructure work
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, landscaping, utility companiesConstruction, demolition, mining, infrastructure

Both roles involve operating heavy machinery in construction and excavation settings. An Entry Level Backhoe Operator typically handles backhoe loaders for tasks like digging, trenching, and loading, often requiring basic safety and operation certifications. An Excavator Operator specializes in operating excavators, which are used for larger-scale digging and demolition. While their work environments overlap, the excavator operator often works on more complex projects. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

Is there demand for backhoe operators?

Backhoe operators are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and maintenance work. Employers often seek entry-level operators with basic skills and certifications, and job opportunities are available in both urban and rural areas. The role typically requires familiarity with operating heavy machinery and safety protocols.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level backhoe operator jobs often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete a training program or obtain a certification such as OSHA or NCCER. Employers may provide on-the-job training to develop skills in operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently.

How long does it take to become a backhoe operator?

Becoming an entry-level backhoe operator typically requires completing a training program or apprenticeship that lasts from a few weeks to several months. Gaining hands-on experience and obtaining a certification, such as a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or specific equipment operator certification, can improve job prospects and may be required by employers.
More about Entry Level Backhoe Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level 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 job categories do people searching Entry Level Backhoe Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Backhoe Operator jobs are:
Entry Level Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Backhoe Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 40% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,952 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Class C Equipment Operator

Moretrench Industrial

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description


Moretrench Class C operators are the entry level of Moretrench heavy equipment operators. 


  • Skilled, trained, and qualified to safely operate at least one type of heavy equipment piece such as a roller, forklift, bulldozer, backhoe, grader, front-end loader, end dump, or other piece of heavy equipment.
  • Experience with heavy equipment operations involving mass excavations; clearing and grubbing; backfilling and compacting; excavating and pipe laying; or construction and maintenance of embankments, berms, and dikes.
  • Skilled at the practice of operating safely on worksites according to OSHA and Moretrench safety protocols and requirements.
  • Note that all job site locations are remote and temporary, so a form of transportation is required
  • Valid Florida driver’s license, or the equivalent.

  • Works under the direction of the Lead Operator, Earthwork Foreman, Earthwork Superintendent, and/or other designated project leads.
  • Follows and maintains safe operating procedures and protocols for all equipment operation and field activity in accordance with Moretrench safety policy and OSHA requirements.
  • All operators must have the ability to recognize site hazards or hazardous conditions and take responsibility to keep equipment and personnel out of potentially hazardous conditions or areas
  • Ability to safely perform physical duties associated with operation of Moretrench heavy equipment including but not limited to bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, handling, climbing into and out of, and around heavy equipment.
  • Ability to work safely in a wide variety of climatic conditions and job site environments commonly found at Moretrench job sites.
  • Performs daily greasing and fluid checks and assumes responsibility for the maintenance and safe operation of any and all assigned pieces of equipment.
  • Operators must keep the equipment in clean and orderly condition free from garbage and excessive dirt/gyp buildup

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