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Drainage Operative Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Description The Grader Operator is responsible for operating a motor grader to achieve precise ... This role is critical to ensuring proper drainage, subgrade preparation, and final grade accuracy ...

Overview Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic ... All ADS employees and contracted drivers operating a commercial motor vehicle in the ADS fleet are ...

Driver Position Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic ... All ADS employees and contracted drivers operating a commercial motor vehicle in the ADS fleet are ...

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Overview Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic ... All ADS employees and contracted drivers operating a commercial motor vehicle in the ADS fleet are ...

Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater ... All ADS employees and contracted drivers operating a commercial motor vehicle in the ADS fleet are ...

Overview Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic ... All ADS employees and contracted drivers operating a commercial motor vehicle in the ADS fleet are ...

Jetter Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

Jetter Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care ... Operate high-pressure jetting equipment to clean pipes, sewers, and drainage systems. * Operate ...

Jetter Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$24.25 - $31.25/hr

Jetter Operator Superior Hydrovac is a full-service turn-key hydro excavation company dedicated to ... Operate high-pressure jetting equipment to clean pipes, sewers, and drainage systems. * Operate ...

Jetter Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

Jetter Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care ... Operate high-pressure jetting equipment to clean pipes, sewers, and drainage systems. * Operate ...

Jetter Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$24.25 - $31.25/hr

Jetter Operator Superior Hydrovac is a full-service turn-key hydro excavation company dedicated to ... Operate high-pressure jetting equipment to clean pipes, sewers, and drainage systems. * Operate ...

Jetter Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$24.25 - $31.25/hr

Jetter Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care ... Operate high-pressure jetting equipment to clean pipes, sewers, and drainage systems. * Operate ...

Jetter Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

Jetter Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care ... Operate high-pressure jetting equipment to clean pipes, sewers, and drainage systems. * Operate ...

Loader Operator

Jefferson City, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

... constructs drainage as needed * Aiding in loader production by breaking down surge piles and ... Operating other equipment such as dozers and haul trucks in a safe manner as needed * Aiding in the ...

Loader Operator

Jefferson City, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

... constructs drainage as needed * Aiding in loader production by breaking down surge piles and ... Operating other equipment such as dozers and haul trucks in a safe manner as needed * Aiding in the ...

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Drainage Operative information

See Tennessee salary details

$47.6K

$87.9K

$118K

How much do drainage operative jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for drainage operative in Tennessee is $87,943.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,700.00 and $99,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Drainage Operative vs Drainage Technician?

AspectDrainage OperativeDrainage Technician
CertificationsCSCS card, basic drainage trainingCSCS card, advanced drainage qualifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor drainage workSite-based, outdoor and sometimes indoor drainage tasks
Employer & IndustryConstruction firms, drainage contractorsUtility companies, drainage service providers

Drainage Operatives typically perform manual drainage installation and maintenance tasks on-site, often with basic certifications. Drainage Technicians usually have more advanced qualifications and handle complex diagnostics and repairs. Both roles work in similar environments and industries, but Technicians often have a broader skill set for troubleshooting and technical work.

How to get into drainage operative work?

To become a drainage operative, relevant experience in construction or plumbing is beneficial, along with knowledge of drainage systems and tools. Many employers require a valid driving license and may prefer candidates with a Level 2 or 3 qualification in drainage or plumbing. On-the-job training is common, and physical fitness is important due to the manual nature of the work.
Infographic showing various Drainage Operative job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,943 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Grader Operator

Mount Juliet, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

The Grader Operator is responsible for operating a motor grader to achieve precise grading, shaping, and finishing of surfaces in support of construction operations. This role is critical to ensuring proper drainage, subgrade preparation, and final grade accuracy while maintaining productivity, safety, and quality standards aligned with Grade A Construction’s mission.


Overview of Responsibilities

  • Operate motor grader to perform fine grading and surface finishing
  • Establish and maintain proper grade, slope, and drainage according to plans and stakes
  • Read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and site layouts
  • Work closely with surveyors, foreman, and operators to ensure accuracy
  • Perform rough and finish grading for roads, pads, and site development
  • Maintain consistent production while ensuring precision and quality
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance
  • Identify and report mechanical issues or performance concerns
  • Maintain a clean and organized machine and work area
  • Support overall crew productivity and job site efficiency


Qualifications

  • 3–7+ years of experience operating a motor grader in civil/sitework construction
  • Strong understanding of grading principles, drainage, and site development
  • Ability to read grade stakes, blueprints, and elevations
  • Experience with GPS machine control (preferred)
  • Strong attention to detail and precision
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Reliable and consistent attendance