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Grading Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

T E C Industrial Inc

Grade Foreman

Lexington, SC · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Strong understanding of grading techniques, soil types, and compaction requirements. Ability to read blueprints, grade stakes, and laser levels. Proficient in operating heavy equipment. Strong ...

New

SST Direct

Civil Construction Foreman

Columbia, SC · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

Strong knowledge of grading, excavation, utility installation, road construction, and site preparation * Experience operating and overseeing heavy equipment operations * Ability to read construction ...

SST Direct

Superintendent

Columbia, SC · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Oversee all field operations for grading, excavation, and site development projects * Lead and ... Heavy equipment operating experience * Erosion control and environmental compliance experience

SST Direct

Civil Superintendent

Columbia, SC · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Oversee all field operations for grading, excavation, and site development projects * Lead and ... Heavy equipment operating experience * Erosion control and environmental compliance experience

SST Direct

Superintendent

Columbia, SC · On-site

$100 - $120/hr

Oversee all field operations for grading, excavation, and site development projects * Lead and ... Heavy equipment operating experience * Erosion control and environmental compliance experience

Blythe Development Co

Pipe Crew

Columbia, SC

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Blythe Development's operations include clearing, grading, storm drainage, sanitary sewer ... Loader Operator * General Laborer Physical Demands * Regularly works near moving machinery/tools ...

Strack, Inc.

Pipe Layer-SC

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Tasks include sealing joints between pipes, positioning pipes to be in the right places and grading ... Communicate with main line excavator operator to finish work & verify install * Responsible for ...

Southeastern College

Nursing Faculty-RN

Columbia, SC · On-site

Maintain rigor in the grading of assignments, projects, quizzes, and exams. * Incorporate a variety ... Must have a current, unencumbered State license as a RN or Compact State RN license valid for ...

Southeastern College

Nursing Faculty-RN

Columbia, SC · On-site

Maintain rigor in the grading of assignments, projects, quizzes, and exams.Incorporate a variety of ... Must have a current, unencumbered State license as a RN or Compact State RN license valid for ...

Southeastern College

Nursing Faculty-RN

Columbia, SC · On-site

Maintain rigor in the grading of assignments, projects, quizzes, and exams. * Incorporate a variety ... Must have a current, unencumbered State license as a RN or Compact State RN license valid for ...

City of Aurora

Street Operations Specialist

North, SC · On-site

$28.10 - $35.12/hr

We do big asphalt patches and road grading so they stay in good condition. And when winter hits? W ... Performs snow and ice control operations shifts, acts as a lead for other department operators.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsGrading Operator JobsGrading Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC

Grading Operator information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$13

$21

$31

How much do grading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading operator in Columbia, SC is $21.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.90 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 Columbia, SC?

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

What job categories do people searching Grading Operator jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Grading Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Grading Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Grading Operator job openings:

Grading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grading Operator job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,637 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Grade Foreman

T E C Industrial Inc

Lexington, SC • On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description


  • Location 315 Burton Road,Lexington, SC, 29072,United States

  • Relocation Expense Covered No

  • Employee Type Full Time - Exempt

  • Manage Others Yes


Description


Make your impact on South Carolina!


Are you ready to make a lasting impact on your community? At J.C. Wilkie Construction, we’re not just building infrastructure, we’re shaping the future of South Carolina! As a leading, privately owned company specializing in water and sewer installation, storm drainage, and roadway construction, we’re on a thrilling growth trajectory, and we want YOU to be a part of it!


Why choose us? Here are just a few of the incredible benefits that come with being a member of our team:



  • Safety First: Your well-being is our top priority.

  • Health Coverage: Enjoy 100% employee-paid health insurance—because we care about your health.

  • Life Insurance: We’ve got you covered with company-paid life insurance.

  • Work-Life Balance: Benefit from Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays to recharge and enjoy life.

  • Secure Your Future: Our 401(k) plan includes a generous match—100% of the first 3% and 50% of the next 2%.

  • Profit Sharing: Share in the success of our company!


We can't wait to meet you and share the exciting opportunities that await at J.C. Wilkie Construction. Let’s build something great together!


The Grade Foreman is responsible for leading and coordinating all grading activities on construction sites, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to project specifications. This role oversees crew members, operates heavy equipment as needed, and maintains communication with supervisors to keep projects on schedule and within quality standards.


Key Responsibilities

Direct, supervise, and motivate grade crew members to ensure productivity and quality.


Assign daily tasks and monitor progress throughout the workday.


Train new employees on proper grading techniques, safety procedures, and equipment use.


Site Preparation & Grading Operations


Oversee and participate in site grading, excavation, backfilling, and compaction activities.


Read and interpret construction plans, grade stakes, and elevations.


Ensure grade tolerances meet project specifications and engineering requirements.


Equipment Operation & Maintenance


Operate heavy equipment such as dozers, graders, excavators, and skid steers when needed.


Perform basic equipment inspections and coordinate maintenance or repairs.


Safety & Compliance


Enforce company safety policies and OSHA regulations on the job site.


Conduct daily safety meetings and ensure crew members use proper PPE.


Identify and mitigate potential hazards.


Communication & Coordination


Communicate effectively with project managers, superintendents, subcontractors, and inspectors.


Report progress, issues, and material needs promptly.


Coordinate with survey crews to verify grades and layout.


Documentation & Reporting


Maintain daily logs, time sheets, and equipment usage reports


Track material quantities and report shortages or overages.


Qualifications


3–5 years of experience in grading, earthwork, or civil construction.


Prior leadership or foreman experience preferred.


Strong understanding of grading techniques, soil types, and compaction requirements.


Ability to read blueprints, grade stakes, and laser levels.


Proficient in operating heavy equipment.


Strong communication and organizational skills.


Valid driver’s license; Clean Motor Vehicle record required.


Commitment to safety and quality workmanship.


Requirements



  • Must have a valid driver's license with clear driving record.

  • Experience in operating heavy equipment.

  • Supervisory experience.

  • Skills with GPS for grading experience.


Summary


You can shape the infrastructure of our roadways in South Carolina today, let's chat!


J.C. Wilkie Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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