1

Grading Excavating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Grading Laborer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

The Grading Laborer assists with site preparation, grading, excavation, and earthmoving activities. This position supports equipment operators and construction crews by performing physical labor ...

Grading Foreman

Woodland, CA · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

... excavators, loaders, scrapers and compactors · Ability to grade stakes and grade set · Knowledge of grading, excavation, cut and fill, compaction, drainage and site preparation · Ability to read ...

Grading Foreman

Woodland, CA · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

... excavators, loaders, scrapers and compactors · Ability to grade stakes and grade set · Knowledge of grading, excavation, cut and fill, compaction, drainage and site preparation · Ability to read ...

... excavators, loaders, scrapers and compactors · Ability to grade stakes and grade set · Knowledge of grading, excavation, cut and fill, compaction, drainage and site preparation · Ability to read ...

Be Seen First

Foreman - Grading & Earthwork

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Oversee excavation, embankment, subgrade preparation, fine grading, pad construction, roadway grading, and site development activities. * Conduct daily safety meetings and enforce company safety ...

Laborer/Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as skid steers, excavators, compactors, and grading machinery * Perform site preparation, rough and finish grading, excavation, and land clearing tasks * Assist with ...

Laborer/Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as skid steers, excavators, compactors, and grading machinery * Perform site preparation, rough and finish grading, excavation, and land clearing tasks * Assist with ...

Laborer/Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as skid steers, excavators, compactors, and grading machinery * Perform site preparation, rough and finish grading, excavation, and land clearing tasks * Assist with ...

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator

Griffin, GA · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

The Excavator Operator will safely and efficiently operate equipment to support grading, excavation ... Perform grading and ensure slope is on grade * Follow grade stakes, site plans, and directions from ...

Excavator Operator

Griffin, GA · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

The Excavator Operator will safely and efficiently operate equipment to support grading, excavation ... Perform grading and ensure slope is on grade * Follow grade stakes, site plans, and directions from ...

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator

Griffin, GA · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

The Excavator Operator will safely and efficiently operate equipment to support grading, excavation ... Perform grading and ensure slope is on grade * Follow grade stakes, site plans, and directions from ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Grading Excavating information

See salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do grading excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading excavating in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grading excavating operator?

Grading and excavating jobs involve preparing land for construction by removing soil, rocks, and debris, and leveling the ground to specific elevations. Excavation is the process of digging or removing earth to create foundations, trenches, or other structures, while grading ensures the ground surface has the proper slope and elevation. These services are essential for building foundations, roads, landscaping, and drainage systems. Professionals use heavy machinery like bulldozers, excavators, and graders to perform these tasks safely and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grading excavating operator?

To thrive as a Grading Excavating Operator, you need expertise in operating heavy machinery, a solid understanding of site plans, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with GPS grade control systems, laser levels, and machinery such as bulldozers and excavators is commonly required, along with safety certifications like OSHA. Strong attention to detail, communication, and teamwork skills help ensure efficient and safe project execution. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety standards, meeting project specifications, and delivering quality results on time.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in grading and excavating, and how can they be managed on the job?

Professionals in grading and excavating often encounter challenges such as working with unpredictable soil conditions, managing adverse weather, and coordinating schedules with other construction teams. These challenges require adaptability, strong communication skills, and a thorough understanding of site plans and safety protocols. Staying proactive by conducting regular site assessments, maintaining clear communication with project managers, and adhering to safety standards can help mitigate these challenges and keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Grading Excavating vs Trenching Excavating?

AspectGrading ExcavatingTrenching Excavating
Primary PurposeLeveling and shaping land surfaces for construction or landscapingDigging narrow, deep trenches for utilities or drainage
Work EnvironmentOpen land, construction sites, landscaping projectsUnderground utility installation, foundation work
CertificationsHeavy equipment operation, safety trainingHeavy equipment operation, safety training

While both grading excavating and trenching excavating involve earthmoving with heavy equipment, grading focuses on leveling and shaping land surfaces, whereas trenching involves digging narrow trenches for utilities or drainage. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right specialist for your construction project.

More about Grading Excavating jobs

What cities are hiring for Grading Excavating jobs?

Cities with the most Grading Excavating job openings:

What states have the most Grading Excavating jobs?

States with the most job openings for Grading Excavating jobs include:

Infographic showing various Grading Excavating job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Grading Laborer

Marquee Asset Management, LLC

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
The Grading Laborer assists with site preparation, grading, excavation, and earthmoving activities. This position supports equipment operators and construction crews by performing physical labor, maintaining a safe worksite, and ensuring grading work meets project specifications.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with site clearing, grading, and excavation activities.
  • Use hand and power tools to level, smooth, and prepare ground surfaces.
  • Support heavy equipment operators by guiding machinery and performing ground work.
  • Install and maintain erosion control measures, drainage systems, and utility trenches.
  • Load, unload, and transport construction materials and equipment.
  • Remove debris and maintain a clean, organized job site.
  • Measure grades and elevations using basic surveying or grading tools.
  • Follow project plans, specifications, and supervisor instructions.
  • Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of tools and equipment.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Previous grading, excavation, or construction experience preferred.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work in various weather conditions.
  • Basic knowledge of construction tools and equipment.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Valid driver's license may be required.


Skills:

  • Physical strength and stamina.
  • Ability to read basic construction plans and grade stakes.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Attention to detail and safety awareness.
  • Dependability and punctuality.


Physical Requirements:

  • Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and perform repetitive movements throughout the workday.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety boots, gloves, and eye protection.


Work Environment:

  • Outdoor construction sites.
  • Exposure to dust, noise, heavy equipment, and changing weather conditions.
  • May require overtime, weekends, and travel depending on project needs.


Employee Benefits:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Health Indemnity and Accident Supplemental Insurance
  • Short Term/Long Term Disability – Employer provided
  • Life Insurance – Employer provided
  • 401k and company match
  • Vacation | Sick | Holidays
  • Cell Phone/Computer
  • Work Boot Allowance

Starting at:  $22.00/ DOE

SAM Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law