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Finish Grader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Halifax Paving

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Finish Motor Grader Operator

Ormond Beach, FL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

We are currently seeking an experienced Finish Grader/Blade Operator for all phases of earthwork. Responsibilities: * Operates motor grader to level dirt, subgrade and lime rock for finish grade

C.W. Matthews

Motor Grader Operator

Columbus, GA · On-site

You will be responsible for operating motor graders ranging from 120M to 14M models to spread dirt and aggregate base to finish grade, ensuring appropriate thickness and compliance with design ...

Ridge Rock

Grader Operator Forman

Riverton, UT

Operate motor graders (finish grade and rough grade) to achieve precise specifications for roads, pads, and drainage. * GPS Utilization: Utilize and interpret GPS grade-control systems (Topcon ...

New

Southland Holdings

Motor Grader Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

Loader Operators with finish grade experience Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential ...

EHC Inc

Finish Motor Grader Operator

Fort Myers, FL

Finish Motor Grader Operator Company: EHC, Inc. Construction Location: Southwest Florida Position Type: Full-Time To be considered for this role, please go to our website and apply there directly.

EHC, Inc

Finish Motor Grader Operator

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

Finish Motor Grader Operator Company: EHC, Inc. Construction Location: Southwest Florida Position Type: Full-Time To be considered for this role, please go to our website and apply there directly.

EHC Inc

Finish Motor Grader Operator

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

Finish Motor Grader Operator Company: EHC, Inc. Construction Location: Southwest Florida Position Type: Full-Time To be considered for this role, please go to our website and apply there directly.

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How much do finish grader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for finish grader operator in the United States is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Finish Grader Operators on construction sites?

Finish Grader Operators often work in dynamic environments where ground conditions and project requirements can change rapidly. A typical challenge is maintaining precise grading accuracy despite obstacles such as uneven terrain, weather changes, and tight project timelines. Operators also need to coordinate closely with site supervisors and other heavy equipment operators to ensure safety and project efficiency. Adaptability, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are essential for overcoming these challenges and contributing effectively to the team.

What is a finish grade operator?

A finish grade operator is a construction worker who uses specialized equipment, such as a motor grader, to level and smooth the ground surface to the desired elevation and slope. They ensure the foundation or roadbed is properly prepared for subsequent construction or paving, often working with plans and measurements to achieve precise grading. Certification in equipment operation and knowledge of construction plans are typically required for this role.

How to become a grader operator?

To become a grader operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Some employers prefer candidates with experience operating heavy machinery and may require certification in equipment operation or safety standards. Developing skills in equipment maintenance and safety procedures is also beneficial.

What is a Finish Grader Operator?

A Finish Grader Operator is a skilled heavy equipment operator who specializes in using motor graders to create smooth, precise surfaces on construction sites, such as roads, parking lots, and building pads. Their main responsibility is to ensure the final layer of soil or gravel is properly leveled and compacted according to project specifications. Finish Grader Operators must have excellent attention to detail, a strong understanding of grading techniques, and experience with operating various attachments and controls. This role is essential in the construction process to achieve a high-quality, finished surface that meets engineering and safety standards.

What is the difference between Finish Grader Operator vs Asphalt Paver Operator?

AspectFinish Grader OperatorAsphalt Paver Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, CDL often preferredHigh school diploma, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, roadwork, grading projectsAsphalt paving, road construction sites
Industry UsageHeavy civil construction, grading, landscapingPaving, road construction, asphalt laying

The Finish Grader Operator primarily focuses on grading and leveling soil or gravel surfaces, preparing the site for construction or paving. In contrast, the Asphalt Paver Operator specializes in laying asphalt on roads and surfaces. Both roles require similar credentials and work in construction environments, but their specific tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

What is the highest paying operator job?

Among operator jobs, heavy equipment or crane operators tend to have the highest salaries, especially those with specialized skills, certifications, and experience. These roles often require operating complex machinery in construction, manufacturing, or shipping environments and can offer higher pay compared to other operator positions.

How much does a grader operator make per hour?

A grader operator typically earns between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or road maintenance may earn higher wages, often working full-time shifts in outdoor environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Finish Grader Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Finish Grader Operator, you need expertise in operating heavy machinery, knowledge of grading techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant equipment certifications. Familiarity with GPS machine control systems, laser leveling devices, and regular maintenance tools is often required. Strong attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication skills help operators ensure precision and collaborate with construction teams. These abilities are crucial for achieving accurate grading, maintaining safety, and delivering quality results on construction projects.
More about Finish Grader Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Finish Grader Operator jobs? Cities with the most Finish Grader Operator job openings:
What states have the most Finish Grader Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Finish Grader Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Finish Grader Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Finish Grader Operator jobs are:
Finish Grader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Finish Grader Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,535 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Finish Grader Operator/Operator III

Oconto County (WI)

Oconto, WI

$29.07 - $32.09/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description Oconto County is looking for an experienced finish grader operator. This position involves operating a self-propelled motor grader to spread, mix and level materials to grade during construction and maintenance or roads. This position will perform fine grading and prepping operations for paving roadways with a thorough understanding of grading and blade control and the ability to read roadway plans.

Off season this position will involve general highway maintenance and labor duties to including snow removal. Examples of Duties Grade and maintain all travel ways, prepare and grade shoulders and ensure roadbed material is graded and compacted for paving Be responsible for ensuring roadway is in passable and safe condition throughout prepping operations. Identify inferior locations in the base during prepping operations Ability to layout and stake roadway for grading and paving operations Operates additional heavy equipment to include, but not limited to track hoe, loader, grader, roller, scale, bulldozer, scraper, paver and crusher in a variety of duties, including snowplowing and grass mowing.

Patrol responsibilities include (but not limited to) items int he State Routine Maintenance Agreement and County Policy. Cleans and maintains and secure all equipment as directed by policies and procedures. Complete highway maintenance duties to include snow removal, mowing, & brush removal operations, filling potholes, repair and erect guard rails, repair bridges and maintain shoulders, haul & place asphalt and aggregates.

Interact with residents and members of the public in courteous and respectful manner. This includes receiving complaints about schedules and levels and quality of service and must make note of and report on any such complaints and respond to a courteous and respectful manner. Completes other highway maintenance duties as directed.

Typical Qualifications High School diploma or general education degree (GED); and two to three years of experience and/or training. Experience as a finish grader operator a must. Commercial Driver's License with all county required endorsements is required Knowledge of proper operation and routine maintenance of heavy-duty equipment Knowledge of geographic locations of highways, roads, and townships within Oconto County Supplemental Information This position will stay open until filled.

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