The Backhoe Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of backhoe/loader equipment on oil and gas service projects. This position requires skilled equipment operation, strict adherence to safety protocols, and effective coordination with crew members and supervisors to complete work on time and to specification.
The Backhoe Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of backhoe/loader equipment on oil and gas service projects. This position requires skilled equipment operation, strict adherence to safety protocols, and effective coordination with crew members and supervisors to complete work on time and to specification.
• Operate backhoe/loader for digging, trenching, grading, backfilling, and loading tasks on oil and gas service sites
• Perform daily pre-operation inspections and complete equipment check sheets
• Execute excavation work including pipeline trenches, wellsite preparation, and tank battery pad work
• Load, unload, and transport materials, soil, and debris as directed
• Grade and level work areas to specified elevations
• Operate safely near underground pipelines, flowlines, wellbores, and other oilfield infrastructure
• Communicate with spotters, crew members, and supervisors throughout operations
• Perform routine maintenance including lubrication, fluid checks, and minor adjustments
• Identify and report equipment malfunctions or safety hazards to supervision promptly
• Complete daily production logs, time sheets, and required paperwork accurately
• Comply with all company safety policies and site-specific requirements
• Assist with miscellaneous field tasks when not operating equipment
Education & Experience
• Experience on oilfield or oil and gas service sites preferred
• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with clean driving record required
Certifications & Licenses
• H2S safety awareness training preferred
• First Aid/CPR certification preferred
• Pipeline awareness/damage prevention training preferred
Physical Requirements
• Ability to sit for extended periods operating heavy equipment
• Frequently required to climb on/off equipment, bend, kneel, and reach
• Occasionally required to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions including heat, cold, and rain
• Manual dexterity and coordination required to operate controls effectively
• Proficient operation of backhoe/loader; familiarity with other heavy equipment a plus
• Strong knowledge of pipeline awareness and damage prevention practices, including safe dig procedures and recognition of pipeline markers, right-of-way boundaries, and buried infrastructure
• Knowledge of safe digging practices and underground pipeline/utility avoidance
• Familiarity with oilfield terminology, site layouts, and lease road operations
• Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, site plans, and work orders
• Solid understanding of soil types, stability, and trenching safety requirements
• Effective communication skills; ability to take direction and work within a crew
• Basic mechanical aptitude for identifying and reporting equipment issues
• Primarily outdoor work on oil and gas service sites, well locations, and lease roads
• Exposure to loud noise, dust, vibration, diesel exhaust, and potential hydrocarbon environments
• Work near underground pipelines, flowlines, moving vehicles, and other heavy equipment
• May require early morning starts, extended hours, or weekend work based on field demands
• PPE required at all times: hard hat, safety vest, steel-toed boots, eye protection, and H2S monitor
• Competitive hourly wage commensurate with experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance available
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan options
• Company-provided tools and PPE
• Opportunities for advancement and additional equipment certifications
