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Grading Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Scraper Operator The scraper operator plays a key role in civil construction earthwork, operating ... This is rough grading work on a commercial construction site, requiring strong equipment skills ...

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Perform grading, trenching, and utility work * Read plans and work according to plans * Help lead a crew and keep jobs moving efficiently and safely What We're Looking For: * 3+ years of operating ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This role involves operating various types of heavy machinery to support excavation, grading, and site development projects. We are looking for individuals who take pride in their work, prioritize ...

Use GPS-guided systems for precise grading and excavation tasks. * Demonstrate the ability to dig ... Conduct routine equipment checks, ensuring machinery is well-maintained and operating safely.

Use GPS-guided systems for precise grading and excavation tasks. * Demonstrate the ability to dig ... Conduct routine equipment checks, ensuring machinery is well-maintained and operating safely.

Use GPS-guided systems for precise grading and excavation tasks. * Demonstrate the ability to dig ... Conduct routine equipment checks, ensuring machinery is well-maintained and operating safely.

Use GPS-guided systems for precise grading and excavation tasks. * Demonstrate the ability to dig ... Conduct routine equipment checks, ensuring machinery is well-maintained and operating safely.

The Skid Steer Operator is responsible for rough grading and/or finish grading of residential and commercial landscape projects.This position reports to the Division Field Manager. Benefits * 401(k)

Heavy Equipment Operator

Fortville, IN · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

We are a growing excavation company specializing in grading and utility site preparation for Quick ... Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator with at least 3+ years of ...

Perform grading, trenching, loading/unloading, and material handling tasks * Read and interpret ... Minimum 2+ years of experience operating skid steer and all-terrain equipment * Experience in ...

The Skid Steer Operator is responsible for rough grading and/or finish grading of residential and commercial landscape projects.This position reports to the Division Field Manager. Benefits * 401(k)

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Grading Operator information

What is the career path for grader operators?

Grader operators can advance to supervisory roles, equipment supervisors, or maintenance managers with experience and additional training. Gaining certifications in equipment operation and safety can also open opportunities for higher-level positions or specialized roles within construction or mining industries.

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 is the highest paid equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators, including crane, bulldozer, and excavator operators, tend to be among the highest paid in the industry, especially those with specialized skills and certifications. Crane operators, in particular, often earn higher wages due to the complexity and safety requirements of their work. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the type of equipment operated.

How much do Motor Grader operators make?

Motor Grader operators in North Carolina typically earn an average hourly wage of around $20 to $25, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $52,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Certain high-paying roles such as specialized contractors, freelance consultants, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers can earn around $700 a day, especially with experience and certifications. These jobs often require specific skills, tools, or licensing and may involve project-based or hourly work in demanding environments.
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Grading Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Grading Operator job openings:
Scraper Operator

Scraper Operator

Aerotek

Lebanon, IN

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Scraper Operator
Job Description

The scraper operator plays a key role in civil construction earthwork, operating heavy equipment to perform mass grading and earthmoving. In this role, you drive across the terrain, using the scraper to cut to grade and move soil into the holding bowl for removal or relocation. You work in the cut and manage fill to level and even out the site so finish dozer operators can complete fine grading. This is rough grading work on a commercial construction site, requiring strong equipment skills, attention to safety, and the ability to work long, physically demanding shifts in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

  • Operate wheeled and track scrapers to perform mass grading and earthmoving on commercial civil construction sites.
  • Cut to grade by driving across the terrain and using the scraper to collect soil into the bowl for removal or relocation.
  • Work in the cut and manage fill to level and even out the terrain for finish dozer operators to complete fine grading.
  • Perform rough grading work, focusing on large-scale earthmoving rather than finish grading.
  • Safely operate equipment such as MTS 3630 wheeled or track scrapers, MTS 745 with pan, CAT 627, CAT 637, belly scrapers, tractors, haul trucks, utility tractors, and off-road dump trucks as required.
  • Conduct thorough pre-operation inspections of the scraper and related equipment at the start of each day.
  • Complete end-of-day inspections of the machine and promptly report any mechanical or safety concerns to management.
  • Follow all site safety protocols and OSHA standards, maintaining constant awareness of surroundings in a busy construction environment.
  • Maintain clear communication with other operators and site personnel to coordinate movements and ensure safe operations.
  • Operate equipment with full attention and focus; avoid distracted operating at all times.
  • Demonstrate resilience and comfort with the rough ride nature of scraper equipment and other heavy machinery.
  • Adhere to the site code of conduct, maintaining professional appearance and behavior at all times.
  • Work scheduled shifts from approximately 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with potential second shift assignments.
  • Remain flexible to work extended shifts up to 10–14 hours per day, including potential work on Sundays as needed.
  • Be open to traveling to different job sites across various regions when requested, using company vehicles when authorized.
  • Collaborate with supervisors and team members to meet project grading and earthwork goals on time and to specification.
Essential Skills
  • Minimum of 3+ years of experience operating scrapers on a commercial job site involving mass grading.
  • Proven ability to perform rough grading and large-scale earthmoving on civil construction projects.
  • Hands-on experience operating scraper equipment such as MTS 3630 wheeled or track scrapers, MTS 745 with pan, CAT 627, and CAT 637.
  • Strong skills in scraper operation, including cutting to grade, managing cut and fill, and loading and ejecting material from the bowl.
  • Experience working with belly scrapers, tractors, haul trucks, utility tractors, and off-road dump trucks in an earthwork environment.
  • Solid understanding of grading, earthwork, and earthmoving principles on commercial construction sites.
  • Ability to work safely and effectively in a high-activity civil construction environment with multiple moving pieces of equipment.
  • Commitment to conducting thorough pre-operation and end-of-day equipment inspections and reporting issues promptly.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to submit to and successfully pass a motor vehicle record (MVR) check.
  • Willingness and ability to travel to different job sites as needed.
  • Willingness to work variable shifts and extended hours, including 10–12+ hour days and up to 14-hour days when required.
  • Ability to work Monday through Saturday and be flexible for potential Sunday work.
  • Strong communication skills to maintain situational awareness and coordinate with other operators and site personnel.
  • Ability to follow OSHA safety protocols and site-specific safety procedures consistently.
  • Comfort with the physically demanding nature of heavy equipment operation and rough riding machinery.
  • English speaking and/or bilingual capability strongly preferred for safety and communication purposes.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Experience on commercial civil construction sites, particularly in open farmland or similar large-scale earthwork environments.
  • Familiarity with scraper components, including tractor, apron, scraper, bowl, and ejector, sometimes referred to collectively as the wagon.
  • Experience with paddle wheel scrapers; candidates with finishing paddle wheel experience bring a unique and highly valued skill set.
  • Ability to be insured to operate company vehicles, providing increased opportunities to travel to and work at various job sites.
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain professional appearance and behavior in accordance with site code of conduct.
  • Strong awareness of surroundings and commitment to operating equipment without distraction.
  • Adaptability to changing weather conditions and site demands while maintaining productivity and safety.
Why Work Here?

You join a team that values hard work, safety, and professionalism while offering substantial earning potential through consistent overtime opportunities. The role provides generous per diem support and mileage reimbursement for travel, helping you maintain financial stability while working away from home. You gain exposure to large-scale civil construction projects across different regions, expanding your skills and experience with a variety of heavy equipment. With the ability to travel using company vehicles when eligible, you benefit from diverse job assignments and long-term career opportunities in earthwork and grading.

Work Environment

The work takes place on a civil construction site located on open farmland, subject to the full range of Indiana weather conditions. Summers are humid and hot with a high chance of sudden thunderstorms, while winters can bring cold rain, freezing rain, snow, wind, and extreme low temperatures. You work in a high-activity environment with multiple pieces of heavy equipment operating simultaneously, making communication and constant awareness of surroundings critical. Strict safety protocols aligned with OSHA standards are in place, and adherence to these procedures is mandatory. Shifts generally run from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with Saturday typically being 8–10 hours, and a second shift may be available. Hours can extend to 10–12+ hours per day and up to 14-hour days when project needs require it, including potential work on Sundays. Professional appearance and behavior are expected at all times, in line with the site’s code of conduct, which will be explained during onboarding.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lebanon, IN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $32.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Lebanon,IN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 15, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.