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Grading Operator Jobs in Ellijay, GA (NOW HIRING)

Johnson Paving, LLC

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Motor Grader Operator

Blue Ridge, GA · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Motor Grader Operator -- Fine Grading & Roadway Construction Position: Motor Grader Operator Employment Type: Full-Time We are seeking an experienced Motor Grader Operator to join our paving and ...

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Pike Corporation

Vegetation Groundman (Amicalola)

Jasper, GA · On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Operating vehicles and equipment in a professional and safe manner. * Participate in ongoing ... Civil/Site Grading AND Many More! We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across ...

Pike Corporation

Vegetation Groundman (Amicalola)

Jasper, GA · On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Operating vehicles and equipment in a professional and safe manner. * Participate in ongoing ... Civil/Site Grading AND Many More! We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across ...

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All JobsGrading Operator JobsGrading Operator Jobs in Ellijay, GA

Grading Operator information

See Ellijay, GA salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do grading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading operator in Ellijay, GA is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $25.10 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 cities near Ellijay, GA are hiring for Grading Operator jobs?

Cities near Ellijay, GA with the most Grading Operator job openings:

Grading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grading Operator job openings in Ellijay, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,017 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Motor Grader Operator

Blue Ridge, GA • On-site

Johnson Paving, LLC
See more jobs at Johnson Paving, LLCexternal

$50K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

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Job description

Motor Grader Operator — Fine Grading & Roadway Construction


Position: Motor Grader Operator

Employment Type: Full-Time


We are seeking an experienced Motor Grader Operator to join our paving and roadway construction team. The ideal candidate will have experience operating a motor grader for fine grading roadways, parking lots, and other paving projects, as well as placing and shaping aggregate base materials in preparation for asphalt paving.


Responsibilities


- Operate motor grader safely and efficiently on roadway and parking lot projects.

- Fine grade subgrade and aggregate base to required elevations, grades, slopes, and cross-sections.

- Install, spread, and shape base gravel in preparation for asphalt paving.

- Read and interpret project plans, elevations, stakes, and grade information.

- Maintain proper drainage slopes and roadway profiles.

- Work closely with the foreman, survey/grade personnel, and paving crews to ensure proper grades are achieved.

- Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance issues.

- Maintain a clean and safe work area and follow all company and jobsite safety requirements.

- Perform other duties associated with roadway and site construction as needed.


Qualifications


- Previous experience operating a motor grader in roadway or heavy civil construction.

- Strong understanding of finish grading and aggregate base installation.

- Ability to accurately grade to elevations, slopes, and specified tolerances.

- Ability to read plans and understand grade stakes and construction layouts.

- Experience preparing roadways and parking lots for asphalt paving preferred.

- Must be dependable, safety-conscious, and able to work as part of a construction crew.

- Valid driver's license required.

- Ability to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions.


What We Offer


- Competitive pay based on experience.

- Full-time, year-round employment.

- Opportunity to work on a variety of roadway and paving projects.

- Stable work with an established construction company.

- Opportunities for advancement based on skill, reliability, and performance.


If you take pride in producing accurate, quality grades and have experience operating a motor grader in roadway construction, we want to hear from you. Apply today.

Company Description

Asphalt Paving Contractor