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Grading Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Heavy Equipment Operator Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

This is both a working and operating lead position with physical labor, and support tasking ... Grading, 9,000lb knuckle boom crane operation, snow removal, traverse and equipment recovery ...

Bunge

Elevator Operator III

Mcleansboro, IL · On-site

$15 - $20.38/hr

... grading duties and help with unloading/loading trucks, barges and rail Inspect barges, trucks, and ... Facilities, Equipment Operator, Fabrication, Agricultural, Housekeeping, Operations, Manufacturing ...

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Grading Operator information

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 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 kind of companies hire grading operators?

Grading operators are typically hired by companies involved in agriculture, food processing, or manufacturing industries that require sorting and grading of products such as produce, meat, or other goods. These companies often operate in environments where attention to detail and knowledge of grading standards are essential, and they may require familiarity with grading tools or machinery.

What are popular job titles related to Grading Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Grading Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Grading Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Grading Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Grading Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Grading Operator job openings:

Grading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grading Operator job openings in Illinois as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% In-person, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Scale Operator Seasonal - Knoxville, IL

Knoxville, IL

Western Grain Marketing, LLC.
Crop Farming • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Western Grain Marketing, LLC.external

$15 - $19/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

PAY RANGE: $15.00 - $19.00

Compensation is determined based on your experience and qualifications.

In addition to base pay, you may be eligible for overtime, commission, and performance-based increases and bonuses.

REPORTS TO: Grain Quality Control Manager STATUS: Non-Exempt

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Under the direction of the Grain Quality Control Manager, this position is responsible for operating the grain elevator scale, which includes weighing and grading inbound and outbound grain to issue scale tickets while providing a high level of customer service by being courteous, helpful, and knowledgeable as well as engaging with team members.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Identify inbound trucks; weigh in trucks, record information, and take samples, where applicable.
  • Perform appropriate tests required for grading specific grains, where applicable.
  • Record information required, e.g., grades, splits, weights, etc.
  • Direct trucks to the appropriate location.
  • Weigh out empty trucks and accurately record information, where applicable.
  • Complete documentation timely, accurately, and legibly.
  • Build and maintain strong professional relationships with customers.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Must maintain a high level of customer
  • Resolve customer complaints or work with management on a solution.
  • Effective interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills with the ability to interact with all levels of people within and outside the organization.
  • Responsible for the completeness and accuracy of all scale tickets at the location.
  • Have thorough knowledge of grain contracts available and be aware of marketing options/resources for
  • Working knowledge of computers and software.
  • Basic mathematical skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide).
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience

Normally requires a high school diploma or G.E.D.


Functional Competencies

  • Responsible for adhering to the company Employee Policy
  • Adhere to company policy regarding expenses, Paid Time Off (PTO), and vehicle usage
  • Maintain good communication skills with customers and fellow
  • Exhibit a professional image and maintain a positive and respectful
  • Proven ability to work independently and in a team-oriented
  • Ability to work extended hours, on-call as business conditions warrant, weekends, seasonal hours, holidays, and overtime if needed.

Core Competencies

Demonstrate core competencies, including collaboration, communication, customer focus, decision-making, and skill development.

Other Requirements

  • Maintains a safe working environment and promotes safety amongst customers and employees.
  • Assist in creating a positive work environment with encouraging and respectful interactions that promote a consistent message of leadership, profitability, and competitiveness.
  • Exhibit regular and prompt attendance, including but not limited to all required meetings and training
  • Proven computer skills and the ability to use the computer to enhance business

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Most of the time is spent inside an office environment.
  • Exposed to grain dust and noise from grain probes, truck traffic, and elevator operation.

Physical Demands

Physical Abilities Lift/Carry

Lifting/Carrying

Frequency

Pushing/Pulling

Frequency

Under 10 lbs.

Frequently

Under 10 lbs.

Frequently

11-20 lbs.

Frequently

11-20 lbs.

Frequently

21-50 lbs.

Occasionally

21-50 lbs.

Occasionally

51-100 lbs.

Not Applicable

51-100 lbs.

Not Applicable

Over 100 lbs.

Not Applicable

Over 100 lbs.

Not Applicable

Twisting/Turning

Frequency

Driving

Frequency

Bend

Frequently

Automatic Trans

Not Applicable

Climb

Occasionally

Standard Trans

Not Applicable

Crawl

Occasionally

  

Kneel

Frequently

Elements

Frequency

Reach Outward

Frequently

Exposure to Cold

Occasionally

Reach Over Head

Frequently

Exposure to Heat

Occasionally

Reach Over Shoulder

Frequently

Exposure to dust, dirt, debris

Occasionally

Sit

Frequently

Exposure to chemicals

Occasionally

Squat

Frequently

Exposure to high noise levels

Occasionally

Stand

Frequently

Working from heights

Not Applicable

Walk-Normal Surfaces

Frequently

  

Walk-Slippery Surfaces

Frequently

Other

 

Walk- Uneven Surfaces

Frequently

Keyboard/Ten Key

Frequently

  

Fine Dexterity

Frequently

  

Handling (grasping, holding)

Frequently

  

Repetitive Motion – Hands

Frequently

  

Repetitive Motion – Feet

Frequently

EMPLOYEE MISSION STATEMENT

Western Grain Marketing strives to provide a Total Rewards package that delivers exceptional pay for exceptional performance, recognizes your dedication to our mission, and helps us attract and retain the highest caliber of talent.

We are an equal-opportunity employer.


Issue Date: 08/14/2025

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