ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Remote Backhoe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skillforce

Heavy Equipment Operator

Concord, CA · Remote

$45 - $55/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil / Environmental Excavation) Pay: $ 45 - $ 55 /hour Location: Concord, CA Skillforce is hiring an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator who can handle both mass ...

Skillforce

Heavy Equipment Operator

Woodinville, WA · Remote

$35 - $47/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil / Environmental Excavation) Pay: $3 5 - $47 /hour Location: Woodinville, WA. Skillforce is hiring an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator who can handle both mass ...

Titan Echelon, LLC

MQ-9 SENSOR OPERATOR

Havelock, NC · Remote

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

MQ-9 Sensor Operator FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary: Titan Echelon is seeking an MQ-9 Sensor Operator to act as a crewmember of assigned Unmanned Air Vehicle (s) (UAV). Sensor operators ...

Rocky Mountain Maintenance

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Soda Springs, ID · Remote

$20/hr

Hours include Monday-Friday 7:00am-4:00pm The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a vital role in the operation and maintenance of heavy machinery within a small team environment. This position involves ...

New

Rocky Mountain Maintenance

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Soda Springs, ID · Remote

$20/hr

Hours include Monday-Friday 7:00am-4:00pm The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a vital role in the operation and maintenance of heavy machinery within a small team environment. This position involves ...

New

Kingsbury Companies LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

NH · Remote

$25 - $32/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Drive Precision Civil and Industrial Infrastructure Site Prep Job Overview: * Company: Kingsbury Companies, LLC * Salary/Pay Rate: $25.00 - $32.00 per hour * Location:

APTIM

Heavy Equipment Operator

Austin, TX · On-site +1

$33 - $35/hr

As a Lead equipment Operator with APTIM, you will operate excavator, off road truck skid loader, man lift and extend a boom forklift fusion machines for installation of HDPE piping at the landfills ...

Partners Personnel

Forklift Operator

Fremont, CA · Remote

$19/hr

Local warehouse looking for a forklift driver to assist on the shipping and receiving department. This position is key on getting the drivers to the correct docking slot in the warehouse. Some areas ...

Rizon Corp

Forklift Operator, Turnarounds- Variable Hour

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Artisans With Variable Hour Forklift Operators At Refined Technologies, we believe operating with an eternal purpose fuels excellence. This guides everything we do; it gives us a purpose that is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackhoe Operator JobsRemote Backhoe Operator Jobs

Remote Backhoe Operator information

See salary details

$33K

$57K

$88K

How much do remote backhoe operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote 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.

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

To thrive as a Remote Backhoe Operator, you need proficiency in heavy equipment operation, an understanding of excavation techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant certifications. Familiarity with remote-control systems, GPS technology, and safety protocols is essential for efficient machine handling. Strong attention to detail, spatial awareness, and clear communication help operators work safely and effectively, especially when coordinating with on-site teams. These skills ensure safe, precise, and productive operation of backhoe equipment in varied worksites, reducing risks and improving project outcomes.

Will heavy equipment operators be replaced by AI?

Remote backhoe operators and other heavy equipment operators perform tasks that require complex decision-making and manual control, which currently cannot be fully replaced by AI. While automation and remote-controlled machinery are increasing, human oversight, skill, and adaptability remain essential in construction and excavation work.

What are some common challenges faced by remote backhoe operators and how can they be addressed?

Remote backhoe operators often face challenges such as limited on-site visibility, potential lag in controls, and difficulties in communicating with ground crews. To address these, operators use advanced camera systems, reliable communication devices, and regularly participate in team briefings to stay aligned with site operations. Staying updated with training on the latest remote control technologies and maintaining close collaboration with on-site personnel can help ensure both safety and efficiency in daily operations.

What is a remote backhoe operator?

A remote backhoe operator is a professional who controls a backhoe—an excavating machine—using remote control technology rather than operating it from within the cab. This role allows operators to manage heavy equipment from a safe distance, often enhancing safety in hazardous or hard-to-reach environments. Remote backhoe operators use advanced controls, cameras, and sometimes virtual reality interfaces to maneuver the machinery for digging, lifting, or moving materials. This technology is becoming more common in construction, mining, and disaster response industries.

How to become a remote Excavator Operator?

To become a remote backhoe or excavator operator, you typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training and equipment operation licenses. Developing skills in equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and remote communication tools is also important for working remotely in this role.

How much do remote excavator operators make?

Remote backhoe or excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects. Annual salaries can range from approximately $40,000 to $70,000, with higher pay often associated with specialized skills and longer-term contracts.

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

AspectRemote Backhoe OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsOperator certification, CDL often preferredOperator certification, OSHA training
Work EnvironmentRemote, often virtual monitoring or controlOn-site construction or excavation sites
Industry UsageConstruction, utility, remote infrastructure projectsConstruction, demolition, mining

Remote Backhoe Operators typically work in remote or virtual environments, controlling equipment via remote systems, whereas Excavator Operators work directly on-site operating excavators. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in work setting and application. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position based on work environment and industry focus.

What is the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators with extensive experience, certifications, and skills in complex machinery. In general, operators working in oil and gas, mining, or in regions with high demand tend to earn the most, with top salaries reaching over $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on location and expertise.
More about Remote Backhoe Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Backhoe Operator jobs? Cities with the most Remote 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 states have the most Remote Backhoe Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Backhoe Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Remote Backhoe Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Backhoe Operator jobs are:
Remote Backhoe Operator jobs near you
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Skillforce

Concord, CA • Remote

$45 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil / Environmental Excavation)
Pay: $45 – $55/hour
Location: Concord, CA

Skillforce is hiring an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator who can handle both mass excavation and technical work in the field.

This isn’t just moving dirt. We’re looking for someone who can work around tight tolerances, understand what’s on the plans, and stay in sync with the crew to keep production moving safely and efficiently. Schedule is Monday through Friday, averaging 45 to 50 hours per week.

What You’ll Be Doing:

  • Operating excavators (mini up to 120k lb.), dozers, loaders, and skid steers
  • Performing mass excavation and precise soil removal in active job sites
  • Executing fine grading using laser levels and grade stakes
  • Working around utilities, structures, and environmentally sensitive areas
  • Installing and working around trench shoring systems (slide rail, trench boxes, etc.)
  • Coordinating with laborers, spotters, and foreman during excavation operations
  • Performing layout support including marking excavation limits and alignments
  • Running long reach equipment when needed for deep or specialty excavation
  • Loading trucks and feeding screening or processing equipment
  • Completing daily equipment inspections and maintaining safe operation


What We’re Looking For:

  • 5+ years of equipment operating experience in civil or environmental work
  • Strong excavator skills with both production and technical excavation
  • Ability to read grading stakes and understand civil plans
  • Experience working with shoring systems and trench safety practices
  • Comfortable working in tight spaces, around utilities, and in active sites
  • Team player who can communicate well with crews and field leadership


Certifications:

  • HAZWOPER (preferred, can be provided if needed)
  • OSHA 10 or 30 (training available if needed)

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance


If you are a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator looking for work, apply today!


#skilltravel

Skillforce logo

About Skillforce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With the most experienced individuals in the industry, Skillforce is the construction staffing firm employers and tradesmen can trust. Whether you're a construction specialist, craftsman, foreman, or project manager looking to hire new talent, Skillforce has the resources you need. Skillforce is a full-service labor contractor that provides guaranteed, reliable craftsmen to contractors who need them, where and when they need them, for as long as they need them. Founded in 2003, Skillforce was created as a response to the construction industry’s challenges with recruiting and hiring flexible, skilled craftsmen. Rob Cossaboon founded Skillforce with the goal of creating a strong construction staffing company that encompassed two main themes: creating a team environment with strong leadership, and a business culture that inspired employees to strive to be their best.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

2003

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Skillforce Jobs