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Grading Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

Western Engineering Contractors Inc. is seeking a qualified Heavy Equipment Operator for our Grading, Underground, and Paving Divisions for full-time employment. Western Engineering is a local ...

Omni Underground, inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Clovis, CA · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

... grading, and material handling operations • Excavate around existing underground utilities using ... operating backhoes, excavators, and skid steers • Ability to safely work around existing ...

New

Athens Services

Process Equipment Operator

Victorville, CA

$25.24 - $28.05/hr

Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator - Organics processes green waste and other organic material by ... Perform material grading and properly process material to create final product * Immediately report ...

Athens Services

Process Equipment Operator

Victorville, CA · On-site

$25.24 - $28.05/hr

Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator - Organics processes green waste and other organic material by ... Perform material grading and properly process material to create final product * Immediately report ...

Aerotek

Heavy Equipment Operator

Monterey Park, CA

$58K - $66K/yr

Heavy Equipment Operator The Heavy Equipment Operator safely operates a variety of heavy ... Perform excavation, grading, trenching, material handling, and site preparation activities ...

Aerotek

Heavy Equipment Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Perform excavation, grading, trenching, lifting, and site preparation activities. * Read and ... Proficient in operating multiple types of heavy equipment. * Strong hand-eye coordination and ...

Motive Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Concord, CA · On-site

$54/hr

Demonstrate experience operating excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, compactors, articulated dump ... Ability to read grading plans and cut and fill stakes. * Ability to travel to local project sites.

Motive Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Concord, CA

$54/hr

Demonstrate experience operating excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, compactors, articulated dump ... Ability to read grading plans and cut and fill stakes. * Ability to travel to local project sites.

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Grading Operator information

What are some common challenges Grading Operators face, and how can they overcome them?

Grading Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining accuracy under time pressure and adapting to changing production demands. Staying focused and adhering to quality standards is crucial, as even small errors can impact the final product. Many Grading Operators find it helpful to develop strong attention to detail and communicate regularly with team members to address any issues promptly. Ongoing training and familiarity with grading equipment also play an important role in overcoming these challenges and ensuring efficient workflow.

What is the difference between Grading Operator vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectGrading OperatorQuality Control Inspector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in grading standardsHigh school diploma, quality assurance training
Work EnvironmentFactories, processing plants, manufacturing linesFactories, inspection stations, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageFood, agricultural, or commodity industriesManufacturing, food processing, industrial sectors
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in product evaluation and sortingCompared for roles focused on quality assurance and defect detection

The main difference is that a Grading Operator primarily assesses and sorts products based on quality standards, while a Quality Control Inspector focuses on inspecting products for defects and ensuring compliance with quality specifications. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and processing industries but serve different functions in maintaining product standards.

What does a Grading Operator do?

A Grading Operator is responsible for operating machinery that sorts, classifies, or grades products based on size, weight, quality, or other criteria. This role is commonly found in industries like agriculture, food processing, and manufacturing. Grading Operators monitor equipment, ensure accurate sorting, and may also perform basic maintenance or troubleshooting. Their work helps ensure that products meet required standards before they move on to the next stage of production or distribution.

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

To thrive as a Grading Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, site grading techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, graders, and GPS or laser-guided control systems is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well in a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, precise, and efficient site preparation crucial for construction and infrastructure projects.
What are popular job titles related to Grading Operator jobs in California? For Grading Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Grading Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Grading Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Grading Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Grading Operator job openings:
Grading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grading Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Motive Companies

Long Beach, CA

$35 - $50/hr

Contractor

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Purpose of Role

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of heavy machinery-including excavators, dozers, backhoes, compactors, articulated dump trucks, and front‑end loaders-as part of earth‑moving activities at an environmental remediation site. Equipment may utilize CAT or John Deere controls. The role also includes performing minor maintenance and basic equipment repairs.

Primary Responsibilities Include
  • Operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently with strong skill, coordination, and situational awareness
  • Maintaining continuous attention to detail and safety while operating equipment for extended periods
  • Understanding equipment limitations, including load capacities, to avoid overloading or compromising equipment stability

Qualifications
  • 4+ years of experience on civil construction projects
  • 5+ years of experience as a heavy equipment operator
  • Proven ability to operate excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, compactors, articulated dump trucks, and front‑end loaders
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Current 40‑Hour HAZWOPER and 8‑Hour HAZWOPER Refresher certifications
  • Formal training and certification on assigned equipment
  • Ability to read grading plans and interpret cut/fill stakes
  • Willingness to travel to local project sites
  • Strong teamwork skills
  • Ability to adapt to changing site conditions
 
Hourly Pay Rate: $35 - 50+/hr DOE
Education:Employment Type: CONTRACTOR

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