The Groundman position offers a valuable entry-level opportunity to build a rewarding career in the ... Burford's Construction is a leading provider of services in the electric utility industry ...
The Groundman position offers a valuable entry-level opportunity to build a rewarding career in the ... Burford's Construction is a leading provider of services in the electric utility industry ...
Groundman (DUKE)
Raleigh, NC · On-site
The Groundman position offers a valuable entry-level opportunity to build a rewarding career in the ... visual observation and safety checks in the process of vegetation management and clearing.
Groundman (DUKE)
Raleigh, NC · On-site
The Groundman position offers a valuable entry-level opportunity to build a rewarding career in the ... visual observation and safety checks in the process of vegetation management and clearing.
... observation of contractors and sub-consultants during construction; verify the as-built conditions ... entrylevel #midlevelprofessionals
... observation of contractors and sub-consultants during construction; verify the as-built conditions ... entrylevel #midlevelprofessionals
... observation of contractors and sub-consultants during construction; verify the as-built conditions ... entrylevel #midlevelprofessionals
... observation of contractors and sub-consultants during construction; verify the as-built conditions ... entrylevel #midlevelprofessionals
Entry Level Construction Observer information
See Raleigh, NC salary details
$11.92 - $14.06
5% of jobs
$14.06 - $16.21
13% of jobs
$16.81 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.21 - $18.35
25% of jobs
The median wage is $18.99 / hr.
$18.35 - $20.50
23% of jobs
$21.86 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.50 - $22.65
14% of jobs
$22.65 - $24.79
9% of jobs
$24.79 - $26.94
5% of jobs
$26.94 - $29.08
3% of jobs
$29.08 - $31.23
1% of jobs
$31.23 - $33.37
1% of jobs
$33.37 - $35.52
0% of jobs
$11
$24
$35
How much do entry level construction observer jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level construction observer in Raleigh, NC is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the most common challenges faced by entry level construction observers, and how can I prepare for them?
Entry level construction observers often face challenges like adapting to outdoor work environments, accurately documenting project progress, and maintaining clear communication with contractors and supervisors. You'll need to be detail-oriented when observing construction activities and ensure that all documentation is precise and timely. Building strong relationships with on-site teams and asking questions can help you overcome initial uncertainty. To prepare, familiarize yourself with construction plans, safety protocols, and reporting tools commonly used in the field.
What are entry level construction observers?
Entry level construction observers are professionals who monitor and document construction activities on job sites to ensure work is completed according to approved plans, specifications, and safety standards. They typically assist more experienced observers or engineers by conducting site inspections, taking notes and photographs, and reporting any issues or discrepancies. This role often serves as a starting point for those looking to build a career in construction management, engineering, or inspection. While technical knowledge is helpful, much of the training is provided on the job.
What is the difference between Entry Level Construction Observer vs Construction Inspector?
| Aspect | Entry Level Construction Observer | Construction Inspector |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | None typically required; some may have OSHA or safety training | Often requires certifications like NICET or state-specific inspector licenses |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, monitoring ongoing work | Inspection sites, reviewing work quality and compliance |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Construction companies, government agencies | Public agencies, private firms, construction firms |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Entry Level Construction Observer vs Construction Inspector |
The Entry Level Construction Observer primarily monitors construction activities to ensure safety and adherence to plans, often with minimal certifications. Construction Inspectors have more specialized roles, requiring certifications and focusing on quality control and compliance. While both roles work on construction sites, Inspectors typically have more responsibility for detailed inspections and regulatory adherence.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Construction Observer, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Entry Level Construction Observer, you need a foundational understanding of construction practices, strong attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or associate degree in construction or engineering. Familiarity with construction documentation tools, basic surveying equipment, and reporting software like Microsoft Office is often required. Effective communication, observational skills, and reliability help you stand out in this role. These capabilities ensure accurate project documentation, safety compliance, and effective coordination with contractors and project managers.
Job description
The Groundman position offers a valuable entry-level opportunity to build a rewarding career in the critical field of clearing and maintaining our nation's Power Grid. As a Groundman, you will play a vital role by assisting in the removal, clearing, and maintenance of civil, matting, and forestry clearance efforts. If you are passionate about pursuing a career in power grid maintenance and actively making a difference in the safety and efficiency of our nation's infrastructure, we invite you to apply.
Essential Functions:
As a Groundman you will support your team by:
- Securing the safety of yourself and others utilizing proper tools, safety equipment, and PPE.
- Assist in visual observation and safety checks in the process of vegetation management and clearing.
- Assisting fellow workers in meeting project objectives.
- Readily joining storm restoration efforts in times of need.
- Operating vehicles and equipment in a professional and safe manner.
- Participate in ongoing training to improve technical and leadership skills.
Minimum Requirements:
- No experience necessary.
- Able to read and communicate effectively in English.
- Bilingual (Spanish / English) a plus.
- Valid driver's license.
- A Commercial Driver's License is strongly preferred.
- Able to travel long distances on short notice, when required.
- Readily join storm restoration efforts in times of need.
- Able to work for extended periods in various locations, when required.
- Able to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
- Willing to work overtime when requested.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
Other Requirements:
- Properly inspect Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Understand when to wear personal protective equipment.
- Maintain company vehicles, equipment, and tools in good working order.
- Able to perform rigorous physical labor.
- Understand proper use of company radio.
- Understand the proper use and maintenance of hand tools.
- Capable of receiving and following directions.
- Capable of working at heights and/or confined spaces.
- Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather.
- Does all other related work as required to complete the job.
- Able to read/write and communicate effectively.
- Dutifully follows established Safety Rules and Company Policy.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are typical of those that must be met by a team-member to successfully perform the essential functions of their job in vegetation management.
While performing the duties of this job, team-members are regularly required to talk or hear. The team-member is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, and feel; and reach with hands and arms.
The team-member is frequently required to perform rigorous physical labor; sit; standing for extended periods of time; or balance; and stoop, kneel crouch or crawl. Team-members frequently lift or move up to or in-excess of 50 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment:
While performing the duties of this job, team-members may frequently be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration. Team-members are occasionally exposed to a variety of extreme conditions at construction job sites. The noise level in the work environment can be loud. Vegetation clearing work is performed outside and is subject to diverse weather conditions.
Competencies:
- Team-Oriented
- Self-Motivated
- Customer Service Focused
- Ethical and Honest
- Responsible
- Trustworthy
- Ethical
- Honest
- Punctual
- Excellent communication skills
EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled
Burford's Construction is a Non-Union Company
NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as requested to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
Burford's Construction is a leading provider of services in the electric utility industry throughout the Southeastern, Midwestern, and Western United States. With a great team of qualified professionals, Burford's Construction can serve all project needs.
Those services include:
- Vegetation Maintenance
- New ROW Clearing
- ROW Reclamation/Widening
- Erosion Control
- Access Matting
- Civil/Site Grading AND Many More!
We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across our service territory in Transmission, Distribution, and Generation. It is our belief that our work entails a true partnership with our clients to consistently exceed expectations. Our company culture and core values of safety for all, environmental stewardship, diversity and inclusion, customer service, and productivity are integral in every partnership.
Burford's Construction is a leading provider of services in the electric utility industry throughout the Southeastern, Midwestern, and Western United States. With a great team of qualified professionals, Burford's Construction can serve all project needs.
Those services include:
- Vegetation Maintenance
- New ROW Clearing
- ROW Reclamation/Widening
- Erosion Control
- Access Matting
- Civil/Site Grading AND Many More!
We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across our service territory in Transmission, Distribution, and Generation. It is our belief that our work entails a true partnership with our clients to consistently exceed expectations. Our company culture and core values of safety for all, environmental stewardship, diversity and inclusion, customer service, and productivity are integral in every partnership.