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Grading Crew Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Lead a pipe crew installing storm drainage, water, and sanitary sewer * Set daily plan of work ... Coordinate with grading crews, supers, inspectors, and subs * Oversee testing of new lines (water ...

... grading. Key Duties * Directly supervises employees. Monitors crews for organizational structure, sizing, crew mix ratios, and wage compliance. * Reviews and monitors cost and man-hour budget for ...

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Cary, NC

$22 - $29.25/hr

... fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may perform functions of a laborer as required. WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING * Operate an excavator safely as part of a crew. * Perform operator level ...

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Apex, NC

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

... fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may perform functions of a laborer as required. WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING * Operate an excavator safely as part of a crew. * Perform operator level ...

Backfill Operator

Apex, NC

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

... looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Operator may perform functions of a laborer as ... Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew. * Perform operator level maintenance on the ...

Backfill Operator

Apex, NC

$17 - $21.75/hr

... looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Operator may perform functions of a laborer as ... Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew. * Perform operator level maintenance on the ...

Backfill Operator

Cary, NC

$21.75 - $28/hr

... looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Operator may perform functions of a laborer as ... Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew. * Perform operator level maintenance on the ...

Backfill Operator

Raleigh, NC

$19 - $24.50/hr

... looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Operator may perform functions of a laborer as ... Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew. * Perform operator level maintenance on the ...

Backfill Operator

Chapel Hill, NC

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

... looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Operator may perform functions of a laborer as ... Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew. * Perform operator level maintenance on the ...

General Operator

Apex, NC

$13 - $16.50/hr

... fine grading, and final clean up. The heavy equipment operator may perform functions of a laborer as required. WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING * Operate heavy equipment safely as part of a crew. * Perform ...

General Operator

Cary, NC

$16.75 - $21/hr

... fine grading, and final clean up. The heavy equipment operator may perform functions of a laborer as required. WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING * Operate heavy equipment safely as part of a crew. * Perform ...

... grading, and backfilling. This role ensures work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications. Responsibilities * Oversee daily tasks of a small crew of pipe ...

Description The primary responsibilities of this position include managing and directing grading ... Monitor and ensure that the crew follows safety policies and procedures. * Complete required ...

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Grading Crew information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

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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 Raleigh, NC is $20.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.09 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.
What job categories do people searching Grading Crew jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Grading Crew jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Grading Crew jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Grading Crew job openings:
Infographic showing various Grading Crew job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,025 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Pipe Foreman

Pipe Foreman

Tech USA

Chapel Hill, NC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Pipe Foreman
Water, Sewer, Storm pipe - Sitework / Heavy Highway
Locations hiring:
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Greensboro, NC
  • Raleigh, NC
  • Wilmington, NC
  • Charleston, SC
  • Columbia, SC
  • Greenville, SC (upstate region)

My team is recruiting pipe foreman for urgent job openings in the Carolinas at leading infrastructure and heavy civil contractors. Primary experience desired is leading 4-6 man pipe crews on sitework or highway projects installing sewer, water, and storm drainage pipe.
There's several contractors we work for and different needs for junior or senior level pipe foreman; some contractors only do highway/drainage, some focus on turn-key sitework, and a few do a mix of both.
What you'll be doing:
  • Lead a pipe crew installing storm drainage, water, and sanitary sewer
  • Set daily plan of work, manage manpower, equipment, and materials
  • Read plans and grades; keep pipe on line and grade
  • Set up and use pipe lasers / grade lasers; assist with layout
  • Coordinate with grading crews, supers, inspectors, and subs
  • Oversee testing of new lines (water/sewer) and troubleshoot issues
  • Maintain safety around trenching, excavations, and heavy equipment
  • Communicate lookaheads, production needs, and field issues clearly

What we're looking for:
  • Proven experience as a Pipe Foreman / Utilities Foreman
  • Strong background installing storm, water, and sewer (deep & shallow)
  • Comfortable reading plans and running work to get production safely and on schedule
  • Solid leadership - keeps crews productive and accountable
  • Knows how to problem-solve when conditions change underground

Nice to have:
  • DOT or heavy civil project experience for turnkey sitework
  • Experience coordinating pipe + grading on the same job
  • Familiarity with erosion control requirements and inspections
  • Operating experience on all heavy equipment related to pipe installations

Why this role:
  • Stable, long-term work with a reputable civil contractor
  • Foreman-level authority - you're trusted to run your scope
  • Opportunity to grow into Lead Foreman or Superintendent

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance