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Grading Operator Jobs in Billings, MT (NOW HIRING)

Rail to Road

Heavy Equipment Operators

Billings, MT · On-site

Knife River is looking for experienced, dependable Heavy Equipment Operators to join our team! Job ... grading, prep work and asphalt paving. * Persons shall be able to work safely and follow all ...

Strobel Energy Group LLC

Equipment Operator

Billings, MT · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Operates excavators for de-grubbing, digging, grading, backfilling, and pile driving. * Operates various equipment for general site preparation and related assignments. * Operates hydraulic equipment ...

KLJ

Aviation Engineer

Billings, MT · On-site

... or operating permits. * Participate in incorporating advanced modeling techniques, concept ... grading, pavement, leveling, hydrological, and drainage issues. * Research databases regarding ...

KLJ

Aviation Engineer

Billings, MT · On-site

... or operating permits. * Participate in incorporating advanced modeling techniques, concept ... grading, pavement, leveling, hydrological, and drainage issues. * Research databases regarding ...

KLJ Engineering LLC

Aviation Engineer

Billings, MT · On-site

... or operating permits. * Participate in incorporating advanced modeling techniques, concept ... grading, pavement, leveling, hydrological, and drainage issues. * Research databases regarding ...

U.S. Navy

ENGINEERING AIDE

Billings, MT

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

U.S. Navy

ENGINEERING AIDE

Billings, MT · On-site

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

Lockwood Schools

Business Education Teacher

Lockwood, MT · On-site

$42K - $59K/yr

Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting ... Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation. Education: * Bachelor ...

Lockwood Schools

Business Education Teacher

Billings, MT · On-site

$42K - $59K/yr

Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting ... Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation. Education: * Bachelor ...

Stratus Team LLC

Senior Structural Engineer

Billings, MT · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Operating coast to coast, Stratus ® serves clients nationwide while maintaining a strategic ... Experience with site civil design, including grading, drainage, and stormwater collection ...

All JobsGrading Operator JobsGrading Operator Jobs in Billings, MT

Grading Operator information

See Billings, MT salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do grading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading operator in Billings, MT is $23.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $26.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Billings, MT?

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

What job categories do people searching Grading Operator jobs in Billings, MT look for?

The top searched job categories for Grading Operator jobs in Billings, MT are:

Grading Operator jobs near you

Heavy Equipment Operators

Rail to Road

Billings, MT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it's our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we are a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and safely each day. Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are also a publicly traded company on the NYSE with the ticker symbol KNF and part of the S&P MidCap 400 index.
Knife River is looking for experienced, dependable Heavy Equipment Operators to join our team!
Job Summary: Ability to operate construction equipment such as excavators, scrapers, rollers, dozers, graders in varying construction environments while ensuring safety and quality work.
Primary Job duties include:
  • Applicants shall demonstrate the ability to safely and productively operate different types of equipment in various construction operations including excavating, pipe installation, mass grading, finish grading, prep work and asphalt paving.
  • Persons shall be able to work safely and follow all company policies.
  • Must have the ability to conduct daily equipment inspections to identify any safety and maintenance issues.
  • Shall be able to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with all personnel and to perform all duties safely and productively to ensure quality work.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must have 2 years experience, preferably with the defined type of equipment.
  • Ability to operate different types of equipment a plus.
  • Must have the ability to read and understand grade.

How To Apply:
Knife River 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.
Knife River Montana offers a 401(K) as well as Company Paid medical, dental, vision, life and Short-Term Disability benefits for employees and their dependents. Paid Time Off (PTO) offered after 90 days of successful employment and Holiday pay offered after 30 days of successful employment with 8 holidays recognized.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing, random drug screening and background check.
You may apply online at jobs.kniferiver.com
If unable to apply online, please mail completed application to:Knife River - Billings
4014 Hesper Rd
Billings, MT 59106
PLEASE NO PHONE CALLS ABOUT THIS POSITION. EMAILS AND RESUMES WILL NOT BE REVIEWED OR ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF THE REQUIRED APPLICATION
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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