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Grade Checker Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Mesa Contracting LLC

Excavation Grade Checker

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$32.33 - $40.41/hr

Mesa Contracting, LLC in Sherwood, OR is calling all detail-oriented pros to apply to join our amazing team as a full-time Excavation Grade Checker!WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN OUR TEAMWe are an established ...

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Grade Checker information

See Portland, OR salary details

$18

$26

$36

How much do grade checker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for grade checker in Portland, OR is $26.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $28.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grade checker?

A grade checker works in the construction industry, typically on roadways, to set grade stakes meant to guide equipment operators on sloping highways and embankments. In this career, you set these grade stakes using hand tools, measuring instruments, and using specified ratios. Once the worksite has been set up, you watch the excavation process to ensure the operator hits each correct mark. Finally, after the excavation process is complete, you use GPS equipment to survey the worksite and ensure that the grade is as it was originally planned. If not, you lay additional stakes and the process happens again.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grade checker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grade Checker, you need a solid understanding of construction site protocols, survey techniques, and the ability to accurately read blueprints and grade stakes, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent experience in construction. Familiarity with surveying equipment such as levels, total stations, and GPS systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work efficiently in a team environment are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure precision in grading operations, help maintain project timelines, and contribute to the safety and overall success of construction projects.

What are some common challenges grade checkers face on construction sites, and how can they effectively address them?

Grade Checkers often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, working in varying weather conditions, and ensuring precise measurements under time constraints. Effective communication with equipment operators and surveyors is crucial to avoid costly errors. To address these challenges, Grade Checkers should stay organized, double-check calculations, and use reliable measuring tools. Building strong teamwork skills and remaining adaptable to changing site conditions can help Grade Checkers maintain accuracy and efficiency.

What is the difference between Grade Checker vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectGrade CheckerQuality Control Inspector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in grading or inspectionHigh school diploma, certifications in quality assurance or inspection
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, manufacturing plants, grading facilitiesManufacturing sites, production lines, warehouses
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries like agriculture, grading commodities, or materialsCommon in manufacturing, food processing, and product inspection
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing grading roles with inspection rolesPeople looking into quality assurance and inspection careers

While both roles involve inspection and assessment, a Grade Checker primarily focuses on evaluating the quality or grade of materials or products, often in grading or commodity industries. A Quality Control Inspector has a broader scope, ensuring products meet quality standards across manufacturing processes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and industry interests.

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What are popular job titles related to Grade Checker jobs in Portland, OR?

For Grade Checker jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Grade Checker jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Grade Checker jobs in Portland, OR are:

Grade Checker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grade Checker job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,144 per year, or $27 per hour.

Excavation Grade Checker

Mesa Contracting Corporation

Sherwood, OR

$32.33 - $40.41/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Mesa Contracting, LLC in Sherwood, OR is calling all detail-oriented pros to apply to join our amazing team as a full-time Excavation Grade Checker!


WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN OUR TEAM

We are an established company that values our employees' contributions. We pay our Excavation Grade Checkers a competitive wage of $32.33 - $40.41 an hour, depending on experience. Our team also enjoys great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, a 401(k) plan, a flexible spending account (FSA), a dependent care account, and paid time off (PTO). Plus, we make it easy to apply with our initial quick mobile-optimized application. If we have your attention, please continue reading!


ABOUT MESA CONTRACTING, LLC

Mesa Contracting is the number one contractor for all civil construction needs. With over 35 years of extensive technical experience, we complete our work safely, on time, and on budget. Our reputation for excellence in delivery, commitment to safety, and strict compliance to standards has earned the trust and respect of contractors, municipalities, and consultants across the region. Our approach to each project and client is always based upon honesty, integrity, and producing the highest quality product available.

Our employees are professionally trained in an array of topics and carry their certifications with pride. In addition, we offer career growth opportunities, generous benefits, and a team-oriented environment. We wouldn't have the success we do without our employee's dedicated efforts, and we strive to show our appreciation in whatever ways we can. If you want to join a successful and cohesive team, look no further!


ARE YOU A GOOD FIT?

Ask yourself: Are you adaptable and able to work well under pressure? Can you prioritize multiple tasks effectively? Is being dependable, professional, and a team player at the heart of all you do? Are you passionate about quality control? If so, please consider applying for this Excavation Grade Checker position today!


YOUR LIFE AS AN EXCAVATION GRADE CHECKER

This full-time position works Monday-Friday from 7 am–3:30 pm.

As an Excavation Grade Checker, you are responsible for measuring and setting grade stakes for construction projects. Most of your time is spent performing land grading, structure excavations, and utility trench excavations. Using a rotating laser, a grade rod, and GPS equipment, you ensure proper site setups. You also establish benchmarks and elevations. With your knowledge of the construction site, you safely guide trucks and heavy equipment onto embankments or slopes. You enjoy the variety in each workday and find fulfillment in playing a vital role in the successful completion of projects!


WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

  • Experience reading and understanding grade stakes
  • Experience safely using gas and diesel-powered small machines
  • Experience safely using pneumatic powered impact tools
  • Experience with hand grading

If you can meet these requirements and perform this construction job as described above, we would be happy to have you as part of our team!

Location: 97140

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