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Excavator Backhoe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Backhoe Operator

Columbus, GA · On-site

$41.60K - $55K/yr

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary ... excavation tasks. * Multi-Equipment Operation: Operate other construction equipment, such as ...

Backhoe Operator

Savannah, GA · On-site

$43.30K - $57.30K/yr

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary ... excavation tasks. * Multi-Equipment Operation: Operate other construction equipment, such as ...

$45.30K - $59.90K/yr

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary ... excavation tasks. * Multi-Equipment Operation: Operate other construction equipment, such as ...

PP OPERATOR - BACKHOE

Mckinney, TX · On-site

$43.10K - $57K/yr

You might be the one we are looking for Backhoe Operator ! Duties and Responsibilities * Performs ... Operates a Backhoe to complete tasks such as digging, excavating, and move and/or transport ...

Backhoe Operator

Columbus, GA · On-site

$41.60K - $55K/yr

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary ... excavation tasks. * Multi-Equipment Operation: Operate other construction equipment, such as ...

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Excavator Backhoe Operator information

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$33

How much do excavator backhoe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator backhoe operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Excavator Backhoe Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Excavator Backhoe Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery, understanding of construction site protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with relevant operator certification. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, backhoes, and GPS or laser grading systems is often required. Attention to detail, spatial awareness, and strong communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with crew members and maintaining safety. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient, precise, and safe operation of machinery on construction sites.

What are some common challenges faced by Excavator Backhoe Operators on construction sites?

Excavator Backhoe Operators often navigate challenges such as working in confined or uneven spaces, adapting to varying soil conditions, and maintaining precise control of machinery to avoid underground utilities or structures. They must also coordinate closely with site supervisors, laborers, and other equipment operators to ensure efficient workflow and uphold safety standards. Successfully managing these challenges requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to ongoing safety training.

What does an Excavator Backhoe Operator do?

An Excavator Backhoe Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery to excavate, move, and load earth, gravel, or other materials on construction sites. They use excavators and backhoes to dig trenches, foundations, and holes, as well as to backfill and grade surfaces. Operators must follow safety protocols, read site plans, and perform basic equipment maintenance. Their work is essential for the successful completion of construction, landscaping, and utility projects.

What is the difference between Excavator Backhoe Operator vs Loader Operator?

AspectExcavator Backhoe OperatorLoader Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, excavation projects, utility workConstruction sites, material handling, loading/unloading
Job DutiesDigging trenches, excavating, lifting heavy materialsLoading materials, moving dirt, site cleanup

Both Excavator Backhoe Operators and Loader Operators work in construction environments and require similar safety certifications. While excavator backhoe operators focus on digging and excavation tasks, loader operators primarily handle loading and moving materials. Their roles often overlap on construction sites, but each specializes in different equipment and functions.

What cities are hiring for Excavator Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities with the most Excavator Backhoe Operator job openings:
What states have the most Excavator Backhoe Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Excavator Backhoe Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Excavator Backhoe Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Full Time, 96% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 56% Physical, and 44% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Backhoe Operator

Backhoe Operator

C.W. Matthews

Columbus, GA • On-site

$41.60K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


C.W. Matthews rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

CWM is seeking a skilled and versatile Backhoe Operator to join our team. The primary responsibility of this position is to operate all sizes of backhoes (both track and rubber tire) in support of grading operations. Operators will also be required to operate other heavy machinery as needed, including bulldozers, loaders, and various other equipment. This role includes assisting with all aspects of job site operations and ensuring safety and efficiency on site.
Key Responsibilities:
  1. Backhoe Operation: Safely operate all sizes of backhoes, both track and rubber tire, to assist with grading and excavation tasks.
  2. Multi-Equipment Operation: Operate other construction equipment, such as bulldozers, loaders, rollers, dump trucks, tampers, and pans, as required by the project.
  3. Traffic Control: Flag traffic and set up and maintain traffic control devices to ensure safe operations on and around the job site.
  4. Erosion Control: Assist with the setup and maintenance of erosion control measures.
  5. Material Handling: Load and unload materials and supplies on the job site, ensuring proper storage and handling.
  6. Site Maintenance: Perform general cleanup of the job site, ensuring it remains organized, safe, and free of hazards.
  7. Grade Stake Maintenance: Check and maintain grade stakes to ensure accurate work is performed.
  8. Equipment Maintenance: Regularly maintain and inspect all equipment and tools to ensure they are in good working condition. Perform minor repairs as needed.
  9. Driving: Operate trucks (pick-ups, flatbeds, water trucks, etc.) and transport materials, equipment, and supplies as needed.
  10. Additional Tasks: Assist in any other duties related to the general operation of the job site.

Physical Requirements:
  1. Ability to stand, walk, climb, stoop, and bend for extended periods.
  2. Ability to lift materials and tools weighing between 10 to 50 pounds periodically.
  3. Ability to work at heights such as bridge beams or caps.
  4. Must be willing to work weekends as required.

What CWM Offers You:
  1. Opportunity for Growth and Development: A company culture that values internal promotion and provides growth opportunities for employees.
  2. Competitive Pay: Highly competitive base pay commensurate with experience.
  3. Comprehensive Benefits:
    1. Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision).
    2. Life insurance and disability benefits programs.
    3. 401(k) plan, Paid Holidays, and Year-End Bonus.
    4. Childcare Assistance

Additional Information:
  1. This job description is not exhaustive and may be supplemented as needed.
  2. CWM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from women, minorities, and veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

C.W. Matthews Contracting logo

About C.W. Matthews Contracting

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

C.W. Matthews Contracting Company is a leading heavy highway construction contractor operating throughout Georgia. We’re a team of more than 1,500 hard-working men and women committed to serving our communities. Together, we’re making a difference by building safe, reliable infrastructure to Get Georgia Home. For close to a century, C.W. Matthews has built state-of-the-art roads, bridges, airport runways, and more. Our projects are used by millions of people every day to get where they need to go—whether they’re driving their children to school in the morning, shopping for groceries to feed their families, or embarking on this year’s summer road trip. The work we do touches nearly every aspect of modern life, and we are committed to doing it to the best of our abilities.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Marietta, GA, US

Year founded

1946