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Blade Operator Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

High School Diploma or equivalent 5 years' experience in the construction industry operating finish blade Experience with Trimble GPS Ability to read and understand stake grades and plans Ability to ...

Finish Blade Operator

Challis, ID · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

... operating finish blade • Experience with Trimble GPS • Ability to read and understand stake grades and plans • Ability to effectively communicate to ground personnel and supervision • MSHA ...

Tiller and Blade operation. * Efficient operating practices. * Learn the necessary skills to maintain ski runs around the mountain: * Be familiar with Brundage Mtn. trail system. * Grooming theory ...

Machine Operator

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator Infrastructure Products Group Idaho Falls, Idaho, United States Job ID: 526736 Non ... Perform routine machine maintenance including blade changes, fluid level checks, cleaning and minor ...

Machine Operator

Idaho Falls, ID

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Perform routine machine maintenance including blade changes, fluid level checks, cleaning and minor ... Ability to review and understand operator instructions * Ability to use basic math * Ability to ...

Ensure all equipment being operated for the day is warmed up and operational by shift start ... Maintain proper blade control and operate equipment in a manner that produces accurate grades and ...

Dozer/Finish Grade Operator

Caldwell, ID · On-site

$29.04 - $39.09/hr

Ensure all equipment being operated for the day is warmed up and operational by shift start ... Maintain proper blade control and operate equipment in a manner that produces accurate grades and ...

Since 1954, Woodgrain is proud to be family owned and operated. The Fitter/Filer is responsible for ... Performs all aspects of saw blade sharpening, benching and repair. * Maintains saw filing equipment ...

Local Driver CDL (B)

Boise, ID

$20 - $25.25/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip. * Complete required route ...

Local Driver - CDL (B)

Nampa, ID

$20 - $25.25/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip. * Complete required route ...

Driver - CDL (B)

Jerome, ID · On-site

$19.50 - $24.75/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip. * Complete required route ...

Local Driver - CDL (B)

Nampa, ID

$20 - $25.25/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip. * Complete required route ...

Driver - CDL (B)

Jerome, ID · On-site

$19.50 - $24.75/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip. * Complete required route ...

Local Driver CDL (B)

Boise, ID

$20 - $25.25/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip. * Complete required route ...

Local Driver - CDL (B)

Nampa, ID · On-site

$20 - $25.25/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip. * Complete required route ...

Local Driver CDL (B)

Boise, ID · On-site

$20 - $25.25/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip. * Complete required route ...

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Blade Operator information

See Idaho salary details

$16

$23

$34

How much do blade operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for blade operator in Idaho is $23.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a blade operator?

Blade Operators are skilled professionals who operate motor graders, commonly known as blades, to spread and level materials such as gravel, dirt, or asphalt on roads and construction sites. They are responsible for ensuring surfaces are smooth, even, and meet project specifications. Blade Operators must understand site plans, perform routine equipment maintenance, and follow safety guidelines to prevent accidents. Their work is essential for road construction, maintenance, and other civil engineering projects.

What does a blade operator do?

A blade operator is a type of construction worker that operates specific construction equipment, such as a finish blade or motor graders. Your responsibilities in this career are to operate your equipment to complete tasks on a construction project. Your specific duties depend on the specifics project. You may need to excavate an area or finish the grade of the surface of a road. You must also regularly inspect your equipment and perform any minor repairs that are needed. You can outsource more extensive repairs to specialty mechanics. However, you should maintain your equipment to avoid costly repairs. Another significant aspect of your work as a blade operator is safety management. You must follow all safety practices to minimize risk on the job site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a blade operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Blade Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery, a solid understanding of construction or roadwork processes, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as motor graders, GPS or laser-guided systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and good hand-eye coordination are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and precise grading work, which is critical for successful project completion.

What are some common challenges a blade operator faces during a typical workday?

Blade Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining precise control over grading equipment, and coordinating with other crew members to ensure a smooth workflow. Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting can also be demanding, as ensuring machines are in optimal condition is critical for both safety and productivity. Additionally, adapting to different job site requirements and interpreting grading plans accurately are essential skills that help Blade Operators meet project specifications and deadlines.

What is the difference between Blade Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectBlade OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, roadwork, landscapingConstruction sites, excavation, demolition
Industry UsageHeavy civil construction, landscapingHeavy civil construction, mining, demolition

Both Blade Operators and Excavator Operators require similar certifications and often work in construction environments. The main difference lies in the equipment used: Blade Operators primarily operate bulldozers with blades for grading and moving earth, while Excavator Operators handle excavators for digging and lifting tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and workers choose the right role based on project needs.

How much do blade operators make?

Blade operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating heavy machinery may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What cities in Idaho are hiring for Blade Operator jobs?

Cities in Idaho with the most Blade Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Blade Operator jobs in ID?

For Blade Operator jobs in ID, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Blade Operator job openings in Idaho as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% As Needed, 75% Full Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,883 per year, or $24 per hour.

Finish Blade Operator

Challis, ID


Phillips, Inc.
Oil and Gas Extraction • 10K+ employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 87 rated oil and gas companies

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$28 - $34/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Wages:

$28 - $34 per Hour

$215 Daily Per Diem

Shift and Schedule:

6-Day Work Week (Dayshift)

12 Hour Shifts

Summary:

This position requires finish work in all types of soils and conditions, performing pre and post inspections, and completing assigned tasks safely and efficiently.

This is a safety sensitive position that is responsible for operating heavy construction equipment with knowledge of hazards and safety precautions and awareness of cut/fill and overall operations. Performance of routine inspections and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refer defects or repairs to supervision is required daily.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Under direct supervision, the Heavy Equipment Operator performs earthmoving and support duties in a production environment

Experience in earthmoving and heavy construction with knowledge of cut/fill operations from a variety of projects

Observes and follows all safety rules and procedures, including wearing PPE

Demonstrated ability to achieve results within a team environment with minimal supervision at times

Good oral and written communication skills

High level of attention to detail and excellent follow-up skills

Experience in earthmoving and heavy construction with knowledge of cut/fill operations from a variety of projects

Get off and on equipment using 3 points of contact

Work safely on slopes throughout the jobsite

Work safely in all weather conditions

The ability to work in a team environment

Judge distances and slopes accurately

Work with other project employees to meet the project's safety, environment, and production targets

Education and Experience:

High School Diploma or equivalent

5 years' experience in the construction industry operating finish blade

Experience with Trimble GPS

Ability to read and understand stake grades and plans

Ability to effectively communicate to ground personnel and supervision

MSHA Part 48 training preferred

Candidates that accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination. This exam is essential to ensure that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role. The examination includes a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any potential medical conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify that the candidate is capable of safely performing the essential duties of the position.

Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.



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