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Finish Grader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Motor Grader Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating a motor grader to level ... Shape and finish shoulders and slopes. * Take action to avoid potential hazards or obstructions ...

Grader Operator

Magna, UT · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Grader Operator Job Summary: Whitaker Construction is seeking an experienced Grader Operator to ... Operate and maintain motorized grading equipment, including finish blades, to accurately grade and ...

Motor Grader Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating a motor grader to level ... Shape and finish shoulders and slopes. * Take action to avoid potential hazards or obstructions ...

Rogers Group Inc. is currently seeking an Experienced Motor Grader "Finish Grade" Operator in the Huntsville, AL / North Alabama operations area, Alabama SMA reporting to the General Manager of ...

Rogers Group Inc. is currently seeking an Experienced Motor Grader "Finish Grade" Operator in the Huntsville, AL / North Alabama operations area, Alabama SMA reporting to the General Manager of ...

Rogers Group Inc. is currently seeking an Experienced Motor Grader "Finish Grade" Operator in the Huntsville, AL / North Alabama operations area, Alabama SMA reporting to the General Manager of ...

Motor Grader / Finish Blade Operator Position Summary We are hiring an experienced Motor Grader / Finish Blade Operator for sitework, excavation, roadway, and civil construction projects throughout ...

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Motor Grader Operator

Lewiston, ID · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

The Finish Motor Grader Operator will be responsible for operating the motor grader and overseeing all equipment required to complete job tasks efficiently and safely. This role requires experience ...

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Finish Grader Operator information

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$9

$17

$30

How much do finish grader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Finish Grader Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Full Time, 80% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,535 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Grader Operator

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 hours ago


Whitaker Construction rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Grader Operator


Job Summary: Whitaker Construction is seeking an experienced Grader Operator to join our team for heavy highway and commercial site development projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fine grading, and subgrade preparation.


Whitaker Construction, founded in 1953, has over 70 years of experience in the heavy civil and underground utility construction industry. Whitaker, an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) company, has become one of the largest contractors in the intermountain area with more than 600 employees and nearly 70 crews. We perform sanitary sewer, storm drain, culinary water, irrigation, earthwork, roadway construction, dams, landfills, natural gas pipelines, industrial piping, and telecommunication projects primarily in Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming, Colorado, and Oregon.


Responsibilities and Duties:

Including but not limited to the list below.

  • Operate and maintain motorized grading equipment, including finish blades, to accurately grade and level surfaces according to project plans and specifications.
  • Collaborate with project managers, supervisors, and other construction team members to understand grading requirements and ensure timely completion of tasks.
  • Conduct pre-operation equipment inspections to identify any potential safety hazards or maintenance issues, and perform routine maintenance as needed.
  • Interpret grading plans and blueprints to determine the appropriate grade and slope for surfaces and adjust equipment settings accordingly.
  • Utilize Trimble GPS and other precision grading technologies to achieve accurate grading results.
  • Monitor and control blade angles, blade height, and machine speed to achieve precise grading and finishing of surfaces.
  • Always ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safe operating procedures.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, including the proper storage of equipment and materials.
  • Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to report progress, challenges, and any issues encountered during operations.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to quality workmanship, attention to detail, and teamwork to contribute to the overall success of construction projects.


Qualificationsand Skills:

  • Proven experience operating finish blades or similar grading equipment in a construction or earthwork setting.
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting construction plans, blueprints, and grading specifications.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to perform routine equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
  • Familiarity with GPS and laser-guided grading systems preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Demonstrated commitment to safety, with knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe operating practices.
  • Flexibility to work outdoors in various weather conditions and willingness to work overtime and weekends as needed to meet project deadlines.
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record.


Physical Requirements:

  • Able and willing to work long hours including day, night, weekend shifts as needed, and work outside of normal hours.
  • Able to sit, walk, lift, reach, stoop, stand, grasp, feel, balance, climb, kneel, crouch, and lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
  • Able to work in outside environments being subjected to weather changes, noise, vibrations, moving mechanical parts, and job hazards.
  • Ability to do physical labor and other strenuous physical tasks.


WhitakerConstruction offersanexceptionalbenefit package including:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Employees earn shares in the company - All employees have ownership in the company and its success.
  • Competitive wages
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Short Term Disability, Supplemental Insurance
  • 401 K and Match
  • Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Quarterly Incentive Program (profit sharing)
  • Referral Bonuses
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)


Reasonable Accommodation Statement


The ADA defines "reasonable accommodation" as a change or adjustment to a job or work environment that allows a qualified individual with a disability to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of a particular job, and does not cause an undue hardship for the employer.


Whitaker Construction is an "equal opportunity employer." Whitaker will not discriminate and will take "affirmative action" measures to ensure against discrimination in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job applicant on the bases of race, creed, color, national origin, or sex.


Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.


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