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Grading Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Directly supervise grading crew activities making sure all safety requirements are met. * Conduct safety meetings, ensure a safe working environment, and mentor crew members. * Work with the ...

Crew Leadership: Manage, train, and motivate a grading crew to ensure daily production goals are met safely and efficiently. * Project Coordination: Work closely with the prep crew and project ...

Grading Laborer

Boise, ID

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Experience performing general labor duties an Grading Crew preferred. * On-the-job training is available for candidates with a strong willingness to learn. * Must be able to follow instructions and ...

Description Supervise a crew of up to 5 laborers in all facets of grading operations. This position is responsible for all daily work activity, field equipment, materials, reporting and enforcing ...

Directly supervises grading crew. * Reports on work to Superintendent. * Experienced on all types of heavy equipment for dirt and site projects. * Knowledgeable in the areas of dirt work, including ...

Job Purpose Under general supervision of a crew leader, performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled work in the operation of light, medium and heavy equipment and light duty trucks with trailers.

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Grading Crew information

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$10

$21

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How much do grading crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading crew in the United States is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are grading crews?

Grading crews are teams of construction workers responsible for preparing and leveling land at construction sites. Their main tasks include operating heavy machinery like graders, bulldozers, and excavators to move soil, create slopes, and ensure the ground is properly shaped for building foundations, roads, or landscaping projects. Grading crews play a crucial role in ensuring that sites are safe, stable, and ready for the next phases of construction. They often work under the supervision of a site foreman or civil engineer and must follow strict safety and engineering guidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Grading Crew member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grading Crew member, you need knowledge of construction site preparation, grading techniques, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment operation, such as bulldozers, graders, and laser leveling systems, is typically required, along with OSHA safety certifications. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals excel in coordinating tasks and maintaining site safety. These skills are vital for ensuring precise grading, project efficiency, and a safe work environment on construction sites.

What are some common challenges faced by members of a grading crew, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Grading crew members often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, operating heavy machinery safely, and maintaining precise measurements for site preparation. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure safety and project accuracy, especially when coordinating with other construction crews. Staying updated on equipment maintenance and following safety protocols can help address these challenges, while ongoing training can enhance skills and career advancement opportunities.

What is the difference between Grading Crew vs Excavator Operator?

AspectGrading CrewExcavator Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma; specialized excavator certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, on-siteConstruction sites, outdoor, on-site
Job RoleLeveling and preparing land surfacesOperating heavy machinery for digging and excavation
Industry UsageConstruction, landscaping, infrastructureConstruction, demolition, mining

While both roles work on construction sites, the grading crew primarily focuses on land leveling and surface preparation, whereas excavator operators handle digging, trenching, and material movement using heavy machinery. The grading crew often works as part of a team to prepare sites for construction, while excavator operators operate specialized equipment to perform excavation tasks. Both roles require safety training and are essential in construction projects, but they differ in specific skills and responsibilities.

What does a grading laborer do?

A grading laborer assists with earthmoving and site preparation tasks, such as moving soil, gravel, or debris using shovels, rakes, and machinery. They help ensure the grading process meets project specifications and often work under the supervision of a skilled operator or supervisor. Physical stamina and knowledge of safety procedures are important for this role.
More about Grading Crew jobs
What cities are hiring for Grading Crew jobs? Cities with the most Grading Crew job openings:
What states have the most Grading Crew jobs? States with the most job openings for Grading Crew jobs include:
Infographic showing various Grading Crew job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,261 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Grading Crew Supervisor

Grading Crew Supervisor

Central Specialties, Inc.

Alexandria, MN โ€ข On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Department: Earthwork & Infrastructure
Reports To: VP of Earthworks and Infrastructure
Location: Various project sites across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Montana
Status: Hourly (Non-Exempt)
Position Summary
The Grading Crew Supervisor oversees day-to-day field operations of the grading crew to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality completion of earthwork and grading activities on highway, roadway, and civil infrastructure projects. This role provides hands-on leadership, technical expertise, and coordination between field personnel, equipment operators, truck drivers, and site management to maintain production goals, safety standards, and compliance with project specifications.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Directs and supervises grading crew activities including excavation, embankment, fine grading, and subgrade preparation.
  • Interprets project plans, blueprints, and survey stakes; verifies grade accuracy and alignment with project requirements.
  • Coordinates with project manager, surveyors, and truck dispatch to ensure timely material movement and balanced site logistics.
  • Plans daily work assignments, equipment needs, and crew staffing to meet schedule targets and productivity goals.
  • Conducts weekly jobsite safety meetings and enforces all company and OSHA safety protocols.
  • Trains and mentors operators and laborers on proper grading techniques, equipment operation, and quality standards.
  • Monitors and adjusts work progress to ensure proper drainage, slopes, compaction, and tolerances.
  • Inspects work zones regularly for quality control, erosion control, and environmental compliance.
  • Maintains accurate daily reports, including quantities, equipment hours, and labor tracking.
  • Communicates effectively with project management and field teams to identify and resolve operational issues.
  • Coordinates with subcontractors, utility locators, and trucking operations to maintain safe and efficient workflow.
  • Ensures all equipment is operated and maintained in accordance with company standards and manufacturer recommendations.

Qualifications
  • 3-5 years of heavy civil or highway grading experience
  • 1-2 years in a leadership or supervisory role preferred.
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL preferred. An acceptable driving record is required.
  • Knowledge of OSHA safety regulations.
  • Strong working knowledge of earthmoving, soil stabilization, and grading operations.

Competencies & Skills
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and grade stakes.
  • Proficiency in slope control and GPS/laser-guided equipment systems preferred.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Commitment to safety, quality, and efficiency in all field operations.
  • Ability to operate various heavy equipment (dozer, motor grader, excavator, scraper, etc.) as needed.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs regularly and perform physically demanding tasks.
  • Frequent bending, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and standing.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, dust, noise).
  • Tolerance for long hours and extended periods of standing and walking on uneven terrain.

Work Environment
  • Field-based construction sites with exposure to heavy equipment, traffic, and changing conditions.
  • Seasonal overtime and extended hours during peak construction.
  • Requires travel to multiple job sites; may involve overnight stays during construction season.

Position Type & Expected Hours
  • Full-time, seasonal.
  • Typical schedule: Project dependent, 70+ hours per week during construction season.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Performance-based bonus structure
  • Company vehicle
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • HSA with employee contribution
  • 401(k) with employer match and profit sharing
  • Company paid basic life insurance
  • Per diem

Central Specialties is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.