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Earthwork Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Foreman - Grading & Earthwork

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Foreman - Grading & Earthwork Location: Mesa, AZ Job Type: Full-Time Pay: Competitive Salary Compensation is based on experience, relevant heavy civil construction background, job stability ...

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Earthwork and ABC Foremen Wanted

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$1.6K - $2.0K/wk

Gunsight Construction Companies, LLC is seeking Project Superintendents with Earthwork, Site Grading and ABC experience. Qualifications: * Must understand civil, structural and architectural drawings ...

Desired estimating disciplines include earthwork, paving, underground utilities, and structures on transit, civil infrastructure, and highway projects. Successful candidates will prepare detailed ...

The Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate and detailed cost estimates for earthwork and utility projects, conducting takeoffs and pricing for earthwork, grading, and underground ...

The Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate and detailed cost estimates for earthwork and utility projects, conducting takeoffs and pricing for earthwork, grading, and underground ...

The Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate and detailed cost estimates for earthwork and utility projects, conducting takeoffs and pricing for earthwork, grading, and underground ...

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Pipe Setter

Globe, AZ · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

We pride ourselves on executing high quality earthwork, utility installation, asphalt, concrete and site preparation projects safely and efficiently. We believe in straightforward communication and ...

This role is responsible for developing competitive and profitable estimates for mining, earthwork, infrastructure, and heavy equipment projects while collaborating closely with Operations ...

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Pipe Setter

Globe, AZ · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

We pride ourselves on executing high quality earthwork, utility installation, asphalt, concrete and site preparation projects safely and efficiently. We believe in straightforward communication and ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Globe, AZ · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

We pride ourselves on executing high quality earthwork, utility installation, asphalt, concrete and site preparation projects safely and efficiently. We believe in straightforward communication and ...

Support estimating and project teams with earthwork quantities and model-based takeoffs * Assist with proposal graphics, 3D visuals, and conceptual exhibits * Maintain organized files, revisions, and ...

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Earthwork information

See Arizona salary details

$4

$25

$33

How much do earthwork jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for earthwork in Arizona is $25.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.34 and $31.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some careers related to the Earth?

Careers related to earthwork include civil engineering, surveying, excavation, and construction management. These roles often require knowledge of soil, grading, and heavy machinery, and may involve working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of earthwork, highly specialized roles such as senior project managers, construction executives, or owners of large contracting firms can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of salary, bonuses, and profit sharing. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and management of large-scale projects or companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Earthwork, and why are they important?

To thrive in Earthwork, strong knowledge of soil types, grading, excavation techniques, and safety practices is essential, usually supported by relevant certifications or experience in construction or civil engineering. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and GPS-guided grading systems is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with crews and ensuring project accuracy. These skills and qualities are critical for completing earthmoving projects safely, efficiently, and to specification.

What is the difference between Earthwork vs Excavation Worker?

AspectEarthworkExcavation Worker
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operationOSHA safety training, equipment operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, large-scale projectsConstruction sites, outdoor, focused on digging and trenching
Industry UsageBroad term covering site preparation, grading, and earth movingSpecific role within earthwork, mainly digging and trenching tasks
Common Search IntentUnderstanding earthwork processes and rolesJobs involving excavation tasks

Earthwork is a broad term encompassing all activities related to moving and shaping soil and rock on construction sites, including grading, leveling, and site preparation. Excavation Worker is a specific role within earthwork focused primarily on digging trenches, holes, and foundations. While both require similar certifications and work in outdoor construction environments, earthwork covers a wider range of tasks, whereas excavation workers specialize in digging operations.

What are earthwork jobs?

Earthwork jobs involve the excavation, movement, and processing of soil, rocks, and other materials to prepare land for construction or landscaping projects. These jobs include tasks such as digging, grading, trenching, and compacting soil, often using heavy machinery like excavators and bulldozers. Earthwork professionals play a crucial role in building roads, foundations, and other infrastructure by ensuring ground surfaces are properly shaped and stable. The work requires knowledge of soil types, safety regulations, and equipment operation.

Do earth science jobs pay well?

Earthwork-related jobs, such as geologists or environmental scientists, typically offer median salaries that are competitive within the science and engineering fields, often ranging from $50,000 to $90,000 annually depending on experience and location. Advanced roles with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, especially in consulting or management positions.

What skills are needed for earthworks jobs?

Earthwork jobs require skills such as knowledge of excavation and grading techniques, ability to operate heavy machinery like bulldozers and excavators, physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and basic math skills for measurements and calculations. Certifications in equipment operation and familiarity with construction plans are also beneficial.

What are some typical challenges faced by earthwork professionals on construction sites?

Earthwork professionals often encounter challenges such as unexpected soil conditions, weather disruptions, and coordinating with multiple teams to maintain project timelines. Adjusting to changes in site plans or dealing with underground obstacles like rocks or utilities requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Effective communication with surveyors, engineers, and equipment operators is essential to ensure safety and efficiency throughout the project.
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Earthwork jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Earthwork job openings:
Foreman - Grading & Earthwork

Foreman - Grading & Earthwork

Kinkaid Civil Construction

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

Foreman – Grading & Earthwork

Location: Mesa, AZ
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: Competitive Salary
Compensation is based on experience, relevant heavy civil construction background, job stability, leadership experience, and overall qualifications.


Join Kinkaid Civil Construction

Kinkaid Civil Construction (KCC) is a growing, family-owned and 100% employee-owned (ESOP) heavy civil contractor headquartered in Mesa, Arizona. We specialize in underground wet utilities, earthwork, and roadway infrastructure while self-performing the majority of our work throughout Arizona and Utah.

Our employee-owners take pride in building critical infrastructure that serves our communities. We believe in safety, integrity, accountability, teamwork, and developing long-term careers for our employees.


Position Summary

Kinkaid Civil Construction is seeking an experienced Foreman – Grading & Earthwork to lead field crews performing grading, excavation, mass earthwork, site development, and roadway preparation on heavy civil construction projects. This position is responsible for planning daily operations, directing field personnel, coordinating equipment and materials, maintaining production schedules, and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and to company quality standards.

The ideal candidate is a proven field leader with extensive grading and earthwork experience who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys developing high-performing crews while delivering exceptional results.


Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Lead and supervise grading and earthwork crews on heavy civil construction projects.
  • Plan and coordinate daily work activities to meet production goals and project schedules.
  • Read and interpret construction plans, grade stakes, specifications, and project layouts.
  • Coordinate with Superintendents, Project Managers, Project Engineers, survey crews, subcontractors, and inspectors.
  • Monitor project progress and adjust crew assignments, equipment utilization, and work sequencing to maximize productivity.
  • Ensure grading operations are performed accurately according to plans and project specifications.
  • Oversee excavation, embankment, subgrade preparation, fine grading, pad construction, roadway grading, and site development activities.
  • Conduct daily safety meetings and enforce company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
  • Perform quality control inspections and verify work meets project specifications.
  • Coordinate equipment needs, material deliveries, trucking, and subcontractor activities.
  • Complete daily production reports, equipment logs, safety documentation, and time records.
  • Train, mentor, and develop Operators, Lead Men, Laborers, and other field personnel.
  • Identify and resolve field issues while communicating project updates to management.
  • Promote a positive team environment focused on safety, quality, production, and accountability.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support successful project completion.


Requirements

  • Minimum of 5 years of grading and earthwork experience in heavy civil construction.
  • Minimum of 2 years of leadership experience as a Foreman, Lead Man, or equivalent supervisory role.
  • Strong knowledge of grading operations, excavation, mass earthwork, site development, and roadway construction.
  • Ability to read and interpret grading plans, blueprints, specifications, and grade stakes.
  • Experience coordinating crews, equipment, subcontractors, and daily production activities.
  • Strong understanding of OSHA safety regulations and safe excavation practices.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to prioritize work while managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.


Preferred Requirements

  • Experience operating GPS machine control systems including Trimble, Topcon, or Leica.
  • OSHA 30 certification.
  • CPR/First Aid certification.
  • Competent Person – Excavation certification.
  • Experience working on ADOT, municipal, and public infrastructure projects.
  • Previous experience supervising multiple grading crews.
  • CDL Class A or B is a plus.


Equipment Experience

  • GPS Machine Control Systems (Trimble, Topcon, Leica)
  • Dozers
  • Motor Graders
  • Excavators
  • Wheel Loaders
  • Compactors
  • Scrapers
  • Water Trucks
  • Skid Steers
  • Off-Road Haul Trucks
  • Laser and Survey Equipment


Benefits

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Company-paid Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Sick Time
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Career Development and Advancement Opportunities


Equal Opportunity Employer

Kinkaid Civil Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws.


Recruitment & Agency Policy

Kinkaid Civil Construction does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies, search firms, or third-party recruiters. Any unsolicited resume submitted without a current, signed agreement with Kinkaid Civil Construction will become the property of Kinkaid Civil Construction, and no placement fee will be paid.



Company Description

KINKAID'S VALUES
Safety * Values * People
Ensuring the safety and well-being of our people and their families is a core value at Kinkaid Civil. We maintain a steadfast commitment to safety through unwavering attention and dedication.