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Blade Operator Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

Summit Beverage

Day Warehouse | Monday-Friday

Missoula, MT · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Learn to utilize the eoStar operating systems and its components. * Participate in the removal of ... Ability to operate forklift, pallet jack, squeeze, blade, and scissor lift. * Ability to understand ...

Republic Services

Commercial Driver

Helena, MT · On-site

$26/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 ...

Republic Services

Commercial Driver

Helena, MT · On-site

$26/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 Montana salary details

$16

$23

$33

How much do blade operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for blade operator in Montana is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $29.81 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.
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Blade Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Blade Operator job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,661 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

GPS/FINISH BLADE OPERATOR

Knife River Corporation

Missoula, MT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Knife River rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Summary
Knife River is a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools. Training and time to do their job productively and go home safely each day. Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. Join our growing team today.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Minium of 3 years finishing experience
  • Perform daily equipment inspections.
  • Previous TopCon GPS automated experience is beneficial.
  • Operate blade, excavator, backhoe, dozer. Loader skid steer and roller
  • Communicate with trucks to efficiently place and finish materials on jobsite.
  • Always work safely and take action to prevent unsafe actions or behaviors.
  • Perform other duties as directed by supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Previous experience in equipment and motor grader operation on construction sites.
  • Knowledge and understanding of grades and elevations.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, lift, push and pull.
  • Driver's license but a CDL is preferred.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.

Benefits
  • Company paid medical, dental and vision.
  • 401K
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay
  • Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability

How To Apply:
Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks.
You may apply online at https/jobs.kniferiver.net
If unable to apply online, please mail completed application to:
Knife River Mountain Region
4800 Wilkie Street
Missoula, Mt 59808
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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