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Grading Construction Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Description The Grader Operator is responsible for operating a motor grader to achieve precise grading, shaping, and finishing of surfaces in support of construction operations. This role is critical ...

Monitor and document construction activities - with particular emphasis on earthwork, mass grading, and associated civil construction operations - to verify conformance with design documents and ...

Monitor and document construction activities - with particular emphasis on earthwork, mass grading, and associated civil construction operations - to verify conformance with design documents and ...

Superintendent

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Strong understanding of earthwork, grading, trench safety, and utility installation sequencing * Ability to read and interpret civil construction drawings, plans and specifications * Experience ...

Showing results 41-60

Grading Construction information

What is grading construction?

Grading construction jobs involve preparing and leveling land for building, roadwork, or landscaping projects. Workers use heavy machinery to move earth, create slopes, and ensure proper drainage. This process is essential for creating a stable foundation, preventing erosion, and ensuring that structures are built on even ground. Grading is often one of the first steps in any major construction project, contributing to both the safety and longevity of the finished work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in grading construction?

To thrive in Grading Construction, you need a solid understanding of earthwork principles, site preparation, and the ability to read construction plans, often supported by experience or vocational training. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as graders, bulldozers, and GPS-based grading systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and good communication are essential soft skills for effective collaboration and maintaining safety standards. These skills ensure precise land preparation, project efficiency, and the safe completion of construction projects.

What are some of the main challenges faced by grading construction professionals on a typical project?

Grading construction professionals often face challenges related to varying soil conditions, changing weather patterns, and tight project deadlines. Ensuring proper slope and drainage while working around existing structures or underground utilities requires precision and attention to detail. Additionally, coordinating with surveyors, equipment operators, and other contractors is essential to keep the project on schedule and maintain safety standards. Adapting quickly to unforeseen site conditions is a key part of the role.

What is the difference between Grading Construction vs Surveyor?

AspectGrading ConstructionSurveyor
Required CredentialsOSHA certifications, equipment operation licensesSurveying licenses, degree in surveying or geomatics
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, heavy machineryFieldwork outdoors, office drafting, site measurements
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, civil engineering projectsEngineering firms, land development, construction planning

While both roles are essential in construction projects, Grading Construction focuses on preparing the land surface using machinery, whereas Surveyors measure and map land to guide construction. Both require outdoor work, but their certifications and daily tasks differ significantly.

How does grading work in construction?

In construction, grading involves leveling and shaping the ground surface to ensure proper drainage and foundation stability. Grading workers use tools like bulldozers, graders, and shovels to achieve the desired slope and elevation, often following engineering plans and safety standards. Proper grading is essential for the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure projects.

What are popular job titles related to Grading Construction jobs in Tennessee?

For Grading Construction jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Grading Construction jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Grading Construction jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Grading Construction jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Grading Construction job openings:

Infographic showing various Grading Construction job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Superintendent-Heavy Highway & Bridge Construction

Kimmel and Associates

Clarksville, TN โ€ข On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

About the Company

Our client is a privately owned, rapidly growing heavy civil contractor specializing in transportation and infrastructure construction throughout Kentucky and Tennessee. Their diverse portfolio includes heavy highway construction, bridge and culvert construction, grading and drainage, underground utility installation, concrete paving, erosion control, trails, greenways, ADA improvements, and other complex civil infrastructure projects for state, federal, municipal, and private clients.

Known for delivering exceptional quality while maintaining an unwavering commitment to safety, teamwork, and operational excellence, the company has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner across the region. As they continue to expand, they are seeking an experienced Heavy Highway & Bridge Construction Superintendent to join their leadership team.

About the Position

The Heavy Highway & Bridge Construction Superintendent is responsible for the day-to-day leadership of field operations on complex transportation and civil infrastructure projects throughout Kentucky and Tennessee. This individual will ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, on schedule, and within budget while maintaining the highest standards of quality.

The Superintendent will provide leadership to field personnel, coordinate subcontractors and vendors, collaborate closely with project management, and foster a culture of accountability, safety, and teamwork.

This position requires travel to project sites located up to approximately four hours from Lexington, Kentucky. The majority of current projects are located throughout Tennessee, including the Knoxville, Chattanooga, Nashville, and Clarksville markets.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead daily field operations for heavy highway, bridge, and civil infrastructure projects.
  • Coordinate labor, equipment, subcontractors, and material deliveries to maintain project schedules.
  • Partner with the General Superintendent and Project Managers to achieve production goals, budgets, and project timelines.
  • Ensure all work complies with project specifications, contract requirements, and company quality standards.
  • Promote and enforce a strong safety culture while maintaining compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
  • Conduct daily jobsite planning meetings and communicate expectations with field crews.
  • Maintain accurate daily reports documenting labor, equipment, production, weather conditions, safety observations, and project progress.
  • Identify potential schedule impacts or field challenges and proactively implement solutions.
  • Read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
  • Coordinate inspections and communicate effectively with owners, engineers, subcontractors, and project stakeholders.
  • Mentor and develop field personnel while promoting a collaborative, high-performing work environment.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of five (5) years of field leadership experience as a Superintendent or Foreman on heavy highway and/or bridge construction projects.
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Strong knowledge of heavy highway construction methods, sequencing, and industry best practices.
  • Experience managing field crews, subcontractors, equipment, and multiple project activities simultaneously.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, construction plans, specifications, and contract documents.
  • Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and construction safety standards.
  • Willingness and ability to travel to projects throughout Kentucky and Tennessee.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
  • OSHA 30 Certification or equivalent safety training.
  • Experience working on DOT, municipal, and federal transportation projects.
  • Background overseeing bridge construction, roadway improvements, grading, drainage, and underground wet utility installations.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary of $100,000-$125,000, based on experience
  • Comprehensive health benefits
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Retirement savings plan with company contribution (where applicable)
  • Company vehicle or vehicle allowance (based on role)
  • Opportunities for career advancement with a growing organization
  • Ongoing professional development and safety training
  • Collaborative, team-oriented work environment focused on excellence and employee success