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Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs in Rutland, VT

Lift Operator

Killington, VT · On-site

$18 - $18.27/hr

Use tools provided to remove excess snow/ice from lift areas including but limited to the load ... Ability to work independently and at times with little supervision * Excellent written and verbal ...

Lift Operator

Killington, VT · On-site

$18 - $18.27/hr

Use tools provided to remove excess snow/ice from lift areas including but limited to the load ... Ability to work independently and at times with little supervision * Excellent written and verbal ...

Use tools provided to remove excess snow/ice from lift areas including but limited to the load ... Ability to work independently and at times with little supervision * Excellent written and verbal ...

Lift Operator

Killington, VT · On-site

$18 - $18.72/hr

Use tools provided to remove excess snow/ice from lift areas including but limited to the load ... Ability to work independently and at times with little supervision * Excellent written and verbal ...

KFC Team Member

Rutland, VT · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

With loads of energy, you understand that work is easier - and more fun - working as a team. - And ... This job posting is for a position in a restaurant that is independently owned and operated by a ...

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Showing results 1-20

Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator information

See Rutland, VT salary details

$33.8K

$58.3K

$90.1K

How much do independent contractor backhoe loader operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor backhoe loader operator in Rutland, VT is $58,337.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $63,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money can I make with a backhoe?

An independent contractor backhoe loader operator can typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Annual income can range from $40,000 to over $80,000, especially with additional certifications or specialized skills. Earnings may also vary based on the number of jobs completed and the equipment used.

Do I need a license to operate a backhoe?

In most regions, a valid operator's license or certification is required to operate a backhoe loader professionally. Employers often prefer or require completion of training programs and adherence to safety regulations, especially for commercial or heavy equipment operation.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator vs Equipment Rental Company Backhoe Loader Operator?

AspectIndependent Contractor Backhoe Loader OperatorEquipment Rental Company Backhoe Loader Operator
CredentialsOSHA certification, relevant experienceOSHA certification, relevant experience
Work EnvironmentOn various job sites, project-basedRental yard, multiple client sites
Employer/Industry UsageSelf-employed or contracted for specific projectsRental company employs or contracts operators
Work ScopeOperate backhoe for construction, excavation, or landscapingOperate backhoe for clients renting equipment

The main difference is that Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operators work directly on construction or excavation projects as self-employed professionals, while Equipment Rental Company Backhoe Loader Operators typically operate equipment owned by rental companies, serving multiple clients. Both roles require similar certifications and skills, but their work environments and employment structures differ.

What is the going rate for backhoe work per hour?

The hourly rate for an independent contractor backhoe loader operator typically ranges from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, project complexity, and equipment used. Rates may be higher for specialized tasks or in regions with higher living costs, and operators often charge additional fees for travel or overtime.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in operating large machinery like backhoe loaders, bulldozers, or cranes in high-demand industries such as mining, oil and gas, or infrastructure projects. Experienced operators with certifications, advanced skills, and the ability to work in remote or challenging environments tend to earn the highest wages, which can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on location and experience.
Senior Heavy Equipment Operator

Senior Heavy Equipment Operator

Casella Construction, Inc.

Pittsford, VT • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Casella Construction is seeking a Senior Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team! The Senior Heavy Equipment Operator performs highly complex and difficult construction and maintenance activities by operating a variety of heavy equipment. Casella Construction provides unique construction projects that allow for hands-on learning and the opportunity to be part of a team that oversees a project from start to finish.

The ideal candidate for this position is an experienced heavy equipment operator with 7+ years of proficiency in operating bulldozers, loaders, and excavators in a Civil Construction Company. They prioritize safety, possess technical competence in construction tasks, and demonstrate flexibility in their work schedule. Effective communication, attention to detail, and physical stamina are key attributes, along with a willingness to participate in safety training.

Responsibilities:

  • Maintains a safe work environment
  • Directs and lead work of other laborers and equipment operators as necessary
  • Executes all job duties of Operator 2 without supervision
  • Safely operates construction, excavation, hauling, maintenance equipment including loaders, bulldozers, and excavators to complete job tasks
  • Tasks trained in GPS
  • Practices safety by estimating weights and distances, and by being fully aware of your surroundings
  • Conducts Daily pre and post equipment inspections
  • Monitors gauges and other indicators to ensure safe operation of equipment
  • Maintains records of time worked and materials used
  • Completes daily paperwork
  • Performs other related duties as assigned
  • Training requirements, both in person and online, as needed or required 

Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years or older
  • High School or GED preferred.
  • Vocational training preferred.
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • 7+ years of experience as a heavy equipment operator (Bulldozer, Loader, Excavator)
  • Understanding of safety rules and regulations
  • Experience with construction jobsite layouts and grading
  • Experience in reading and understanding project plans
  • Must be able to work some weekends and or nights, when needed
  • Must be able to travel out of town for a day and or a week
  • Ability to participate in regulatory trainings (First Aid/CPR, OSHA 10, Flagging, Spotter)

Attributes:

  • Ability to listen, understand, and follow directions
  • Ability to remain flexible as assignments change
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with coworkers and supervisor
  • Good communication skills both verbal and written
  • Possess a positive attitude and desire to learn
  • Sound knowledge of construction and practical experience with tools and equipment
  • Organized with a systematic approach to achieve accuracy and efficiency
  • Great hand, eye, and foot coordination
  • Exhibit attention to detail
  • Familiar with Safety Protocols
  • Proficiency in math and reading

Physical Requirements:

  • Must have physical strength, balance, hand eye coordination, and stamina necessary to complete jobs in various areas
  • Must be able to stand, walk, and climb inclines for the duration of the shift
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly
  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds occasionally with assistance
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather

Compensation and Benefits:

Casella Construction offers competitive wages and a full benefits package to eligible employees that includes:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurances
  • Voluntary Short- & Long-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off
  • EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Program with up-to 4% company match and immediate vesting

Hourly Hiring Range: $30.00/hr. - $40.00/hr.

This range reflects the base pay we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting, considering current market conditions and industry benchmarks.

Final and individual compensation packages are based on various factors unique to each candidate, including skill set, experience, qualifications, and other job-related reas

Who We Are:

Joseph Casella and John Casella II are the second generation of the Casella family, carrying on a legacy that was built on hard work, grit, determination, and most of all, innovation. Together with a team equally committed to exemplifying the highest industry standards, and reinventing systems to create effective solutions when old methods no longer serve new thinking. Casella Construction has evolved to become an industry-leading company in the field.

Our strength is in our team, who we continue to invest in and depend on to help expand critical areas of our business, including heavy highway construction, demolition, utility installation, environmental contracting, commercial site development, land management, aggregate, transportation, and fleet maintenance. 

Casella Construction's success is attributed to our employees' love of the industry, our leadership's drive to remain at the forefront of technology and environmental stewardship, and our collective ability to thrive in dynamic situations.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Casella Construction is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Women and minorities encouraged to apply.