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Grading Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Excavation, grading and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

... grading tasks including, but not limited to setting grade markers; monitors grade to guide earth moving equipment operators in sloping and fill embankments; operates and understands the use of a ...

... grading tasks including, but not limited to setting grade markers; monitors grade to guide earth moving equipment operators in sloping and fill embankments; operates and understands the use of a ...

... grading tasks including, but not limited to setting grade markers; monitors grade to guide earth moving equipment operators in sloping and fill embankments; operates and understands the use of a ...

... grading tasks including, but not limited to setting grade markers; monitors grade to guide earth moving equipment operators in sloping and fill embankments; operates and understands the use of a ...

Operating and maintaining various types of precision surveying and laboratory test instruments and equipment * Preparing architectural, mechanical, electrical and civil drawings * Designing grading ...

Operating and maintaining various types of precision surveying and laboratory test instruments and equipment * Preparing architectural, mechanical, electrical and civil drawings * Designing grading ...

Showing results 21-40

Grading Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do grading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $22.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Grading Operator jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Grading Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Grading Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,368 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Excavation Operator

Forgen

Donaldsonville, LA • On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Forgen is dedicated to building a better future - for generations.

Location: Donaldsville, LA

Position Summary

Operate and maintain heavy, motorized equipment used in earth moving operations in a safe and efficient manner.

Forgen Overview
Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating across North America. We are
dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for complex civil, geotechnical, and environmental challenges, guided by
our core values of integrity, passion, teamwork, and smart work.

Key Responsibilities

  • Participate in a drug-free workplace with a random drug testing program.
  • Responsible for driving a safety culture which promotes Incident and Injury Free Performance.
  • Operate heavy, motorized equipment used in earth moving operations, including, but not limited to, dozers,
    scrapers, loaders, excavators, compactors, etc. and other equipment to support a variety of operations.
  • Excavation, grading and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment.
  • Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate location for stockpiling
    or disposal.
  • Use hand-held mobile radio units to coordinate tasks and resources.
  • Read and comply with safety plans, rules, maintenance instructions, training materials, Safety Data Sheets
    (SDS), warning tags, traffic signs and procedure manuals.
  • Abilities to work in challenging conditions and work independently or as part of a team.
  • Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings and weekends.
  • Perform additional assignments and special projects as directed.

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma/GED or equivalent.
  • The following experience is required:
    • Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience.
    • Operator 2: 5+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience.
    • Operator 3: 10+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience.

Preferred Qualifications
The following safety training is preferred, but not mandatory. Company will provide additional training, as necessary.

  • 40 Hour HAZWOPER training
  • Competent Person Safety Training
  • 8-Hour Supervisory Training
  • 30-Hour OSHA Construction Safety Training
  • First Aid and CPR

Physical Demands & Work Environment
This role requires lifting up to 50 pounds, extended standing or walking on project sites, climbing in and out of
equipment, and working in confined spaces or at heights. Work conditions and demands may vary, with possible
exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust, fumes, noise, and extreme weather. Proper PPE, including protective
eyewear, gloves, a hard hat, and steel-toed boots, is required. Effective communication, tool use, and adherence to
safety protocols are essential.


This job description outlines the general scope of work and is not exhaustive. Employees may be assigned additional
duties as needed. Requirements may be adjusted to accommodate disabilities, except where they pose a direct safety
risk.

Equal Opportunity

Forgen is an equal-opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on any legally protected status.

Privacy Policy

At Forgen, we are committed to protecting your privacy. We collect and use your personal data to manage the recruitment process, including assessing your application, verifying information, and, if applicable, entering into an employment contract. Your information may be shared with authorized third parties who perform services on our behalf, such as background checks, and only where permitted by law. We implement appropriate security measures to safeguard your information and retain it only as long as necessary for recruitment and legal purposes.

You have the right to access, correct, or request deletion of your data, and to withdraw your consent at any time where applicable. For questions or to exercise your rights, please contact hr@forgen.com.

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