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Blade Operator Jobs in Gilbert, AZ (NOW HIRING)

DBA Construction, Inc.

Universal Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Experience with running Blade, GPS, Dozer, Mini X, Excavator, and Gannon's.Perform pre and post operation inspection of equipment.Uses proper techniques to secure equipment when in transport and tarp ...

M. A. Mortenson Company

Operator I

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

DBA Construction, Inc.

Universal Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Experience with running Blade, GPS, Dozer, Mini X, Excavator, and Gannon's. * Perform pre and post operation inspection of equipment. * Uses proper techniques to secure equipment when in transport ...

DBA Construction, Inc.

Universal Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Experience with running Blade, GPS, Dozer, Mini X, Excavator, and Gannon's. * Perform pre and post operation inspection of equipment. * Uses proper techniques to secure equipment when in transport ...

Mortenson

Operator I

Scottsdale, AZ

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

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All JobsBlade Operator JobsBlade Operator Jobs in Gilbert, AZ

Blade Operator information

See Gilbert, AZ salary details

$17

$25

$36

How much do blade operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for blade operator in Gilbert, AZ is $25.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $32.36 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 Gilbert, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,847 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Blade Operator - Civil Construction

Sunland Asphalt

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 13 days ago

Sunland Asphalt rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

SUNLAND ASPHALTSunland Asphalt and Construction, LLC. is seeking an experienced Blade Operator to join our growing team in Phoenix, AZ. The Blade Operator will support Sunland's civil/heavy civil division and construction projects and is responsible for precision grading and site preparation.Sunland is a leading asphalt solutions provider and general contractor known for delivering exceptional quality, reliability, and innovation to its customers. With a reputation built on decades of combined industry expertise, we specialize in a full range of services, including commercial and residential paving, maintenance and repair, sealcoating, milling, and large‑scale infrastructure projects. WHY JOIN SUNLAND?Competitive salary401(K) match after 30 days of employmentWork/Life Balance and Community InvolvementComprehensive Health Benefits including Health, Dental, VisionAward Winning Peers & ProjectsA Foundation Built on Safety essential Duties:Must work quickly, productively and safely to meet production goals as outlined by the Foreman, Superintendent and/or Production Manager.Follow direction of the Foreman and/or Superintendent with regards to daily production schedule and activities. Operate heavy equipment; specifically Cat equipment.Must be an advocate of safety and follow safety policies and procedures.Actively participate in job-site and safety meetings and all Company related training.Works in conjunction with Foreman or Crew Leader to ensure the job-site is safe and traffic is controlled prior to commencing work.Must be a strong communicator and be in constant contact with the paver operator, truck drivers and general laborers.If driving a commercial motor vehicle, CMV, will conduct pre/post trip inspections in compliance with federal, state and local laws. May operate trucks to transport equipment to and from production sites as required and assist in the maintenance of all equipment.Inspect, clean and maintain equipment and machinery.Responsible for reporting problems and malfunction equipment and/or machinery to supervisor and/or shop personnel.Maintain a clean job site; pick up all tools and equipment and secure job site each day.Understand material handling and storage in compliance with SDS sheets.Coordinate and work with contractors, sub-contractors and vendors to complete job.Serve as front-line Company representative and must provide excellent service to the customer and to the public.Use equipment and/or an assortment of hand tools such as rakes, shovels, wheel barrels, etc.Any and all other duties assigned. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Qualifications:A high school diploma or GED is preferred.1-3 years finish blade operation experience is required.Ability to use GPS technology and blue hub and or stake top to set finish grade. AAP/EEO STATEMENTSunland Asphalt is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer
Job Posted by ApplicantPro

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