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Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs

Legacy Transportation

Independent Contractor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

... operator eligible to work as an independent contractor * Ability to run in all 48 states and Canada (if applicable) * Strong communication skills and punctuality * Willingness to live load/unload ...

Legacy Transportation

Independent Contractor

Rosemont, IL · On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

... operator eligible to work as an independent contractor * Ability to run in all 48 states and Canada (if applicable) * Strong communication skills and punctuality * Willingness to live load/unload ...

Fred Smith Company

Loader Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Loader Operator Build More Than Roads. Build Your Career. CR Jackson, Inc. is seeking a skilled and ... Stable, year-round employment with a respected South Carolina contractor * Safety-focused culture ...

C.R. Jackson, Inc.

Loader Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Loader Operator Build More Than Roads. Build Your Career. CR Jackson, Inc. is seeking a skilled and ... Stable, year-round employment with a respected South Carolina contractor * Safety-focused culture ...

SMITH ROWE, LLC

Loader Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Loader Operator Build More Than Roads. Build Your Career. CR Jackson, Inc. is seeking a skilled and ... Stable, year-round employment with a respected South Carolina contractor * Safety-focused culture ...

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All JobsIndependent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator Jobs

Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator information

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$57K

$88K

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

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor backhoe loader 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 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.
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Backhoe Loader Operator jobs? The most popular types of Backhoe Loader Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator jobs include:
Independent Contractor Backhoe Loader Operator jobs near you
Loader Operator

Loader Operator

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
Join our team as a skilled and safety-oriented loader and backhoe operator! We're seeking a candidate with at least two years of experience in heavy equipment operation in a heavy civil construction environment.
Position Description
Responsibilities and abilities:
As the Backhoe Operator, you will be responsible for excavating ditches and structures, laying pipe and precast concrete structures, carrying materials in the loader bucket, and performing general excavation and backfill tasks. Additionally, you may operate a variety of equipment including hand and power tools such as air hammers, earth tampers, small mechanical hoists, surveying, and measuring equipment. You will clean and prepare job sites, dig trenches, place shoring to support the sides of excavations, and clean up rubble and debris. You will spend most of your time on the physical job site and may also assist with general labor duties as needed.
Position Requirements
  • At least 2 years of experience operating a rubber-tired backhoe
  • At least 2 years of experience in the construction industry
  • Experience with hydraulic attachments on a backhoe is preferred
  • Valid US Driver's License
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check

Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer: We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, military status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or status with regard to public assistance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
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