1

Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs in Rutland, VT

... independent solar and BESS operations and maintenance providers, with over 15 years of operating ... Communicates with customers, engineers, technicians, project managers, client sub-contractors to ...

... independent solar and BESS operations and maintenance providers, with over 15 years of operating ... Communicate with technical leads, project leads/managers, and third-party sub-contractors to ensure ...

next page

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.
Material Handler/Box Truck Driver II

Material Handler/Box Truck Driver II

Vermont Cider Company

Middlebury, VT โ€ข On-site

$23.50 - $26/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Material Handler / Box Truck Driver II

We are hiring a Material Handler / Box Truck Driver II for our Pond Lane location in Middlebury, VT. This experienced role is responsible for supporting efficient warehouse and logistics operations, including the safe handling, movement, staging, and organization of materials throughout the facility. The position also includes assisting with inventory control, shipping and receiving tasks, and providing support to production areas to ensure materials are available where and when they are needed.

In addition, this role involves operating a company box truck for local deliveries, pickups, and inter-facility transfers. The ideal candidate will safely load and unload materials, ensure accurate and timely deliveries, and maintain a strong focus on safety, organization, and attention to detail. This position requires a dependable individual who can work independently in a fast-paced environment while contributing to smooth and efficient daily operations.

Schedule: Flexible 8-hour workday, Monday-Friday

Pay Range $23.50-$26.00 per hour

Actual compensation will be based on experience, skill level, and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely move, stage, load, unload, and store materials using appropriate warehouse equipment.
  • Drive a company box truck for local transfers, deliveries, pickups, or material movement as assigned.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip checks and report vehicle, equipment, or safety concerns promptly.
  • Secure loads, follow safe driving practices, and comply with company vehicle and warehouse procedures.
  • Support production, shipping, receiving, and inventory flow by ensuring materials are available, organized, and properly staged.
  • Complete delivery, inventory, shipping, receiving, and warehouse documentation accurately.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas, storage locations, traffic paths, and vehicle-use practices.
  • Support cycle counts, inventory reconciliation, staging, and warehouse organization.

Requirements

Qualifications

  • 2โ€“5 years of experience in warehouse operations, manufacturing, shipping and receiving, inventory management, delivery driving, or material handling preferred.
  • Forklift certification preferred; must be able to obtain and maintain company-required certification.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record required.
  • Demonstrated commitment to safe work practices and procedures.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to accurately complete delivery, inventory, and warehouse documentation.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks.

This role is generally seeking someone with hands-on warehouse/logistics experience, safe equipment operation skills, a clean driving record, and strong accuracy in inventory and documentation tasks.

Why Join Us?

  • Be an essential part of the operation โ€“ Your work directly supports the safe and efficient flow of materials that keeps our warehouse and production activities running smoothly.
  • Safety first culture โ€“ Work in an environment where safety, training, and responsible equipment operation are top priorities.
  • Stable, hands-on work โ€“ Enjoy a role that keeps you active and engaged throughout the day with meaningful responsibilities.
  • Team-oriented environment โ€“ Collaborate with experienced colleagues who value reliability, communication, and mutual support.
  • Make an impact every day โ€“ Help ensure products and materials are moved accurately, inventory stays organized, and customer and production needs are met on time.
  • Growth opportunities โ€“ Build on your warehouse and material handling experience while developing skills that can support future career advancement.
  • Commitment to quality and accuracy โ€“ Join a team that takes pride in doing the job right and maintaining high operational standards.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off (3 weeks in 1st year) & up to 10 paid holidays
  • Generous paid parental leave
  • Annual bonus opportunity
  • Company paid life and disability insurance
  • Monthly product allowance (employee perk)
  • You can build a long-term careerโ€”not just hold a job

About Vermont Cider Company

We reinvigorated American hard cider in 1991 and continue to lead the category through our commitment to crafting innovative and refreshing hard ciders. Vermont Cider Co. crafts a variety of ciders from iconic Woodchuck Hard Cider to fruit-forward Wyder's Cider. Visit our Cider House tap room in Middlebury, VT or learn more at www.vtciderco.com where you can find cider near you or order online.

Vermont Hard Cider Company is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals. Employment is subject to verification of background investigation.