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Grading Operator Jobs in Fresno, CA (NOW HIRING)

City of Hanford

Heavy Equipment Operator

Hanford, CA

$56K - $68K/yr

... grading, and other construction work in the maintenance and repair of City streets and storm drains ... operating equipment. Utilize proper safety and traffic control devices as specified in the ...

New

H. T. PROF Group

Civil Superintendent

Fresno, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

... grading, excavation, and site development . * Oversee self-performed work crews, subcontractors, equipment operators, and field personnel. * Plan and coordinate daily work activities to meet project ...

U.S. Navy

ENGINEERING AIDE

Fresno, CA

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

Fresno, CA · 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 ...

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All JobsGrading Operator JobsGrading Operator Jobs in Fresno, CA

Grading Operator information

See Fresno, CA salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do grading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading operator in Fresno, CA is $23.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $26.73 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 Fresno, CA?

For Grading Operator jobs in Fresno, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Grading Operator jobs in Fresno, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Grading Operator jobs in Fresno, CA are:

What cities near Fresno, CA are hiring for Grading Operator jobs?

Cities near Fresno, CA with the most Grading Operator job openings:

Grading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grading Operator job openings in Fresno, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,980 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

City of Hanford

Hanford, CA

$56K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

DESCRIPTION The City of Hanford is seeking to fill one (1) Heavy Equipment Operator vacancy in the Public Works Department - Streets Division. This position is to operate a variety of heavy equipment and related equipment in the performance of excavation, grading, and other construction work in the maintenance and repair of City streets and storm drains; and to provide technical support to assigned supervisor. EXAMPLE OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Operate backhoes, motor graders, bobcats, and bulldozers on a variety of construction and maintenance projects.

Load and transport heavy equipment utilizing tractor trailer. Perform safety inspections and routine maintenance on equipment. Assist with streets crew maintenance functions when not operating equipment.

Utilize proper safety and traffic control devices as specified in the California Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service. Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect.

Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication. Perform related duties as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Mechanical operation of heavy diesel and gas-powered construction and maintenance equipment, including backhoes, graders, loaders and other related equipment.

Safe working procedures related to heavy equipment, including trenching and shoring safety practices. Basic hydraulic principles. Ability to: Safely and efficiently operate a variety of heavy equipment.

On a continuous basis, know and understand maintenance activities and observe safety rules. Intermittently, analyze problem equipment; identify safety hazards; locate equipment; interpret work orders; remember how to operate equipment; and explain jobs to other employees. Intermittently, sit while driving a piece of equipment; stand and walk while performing maintenance activities; bend and twist to adjust equipment; kneel and squat to review work; climb up on to heavy equipment to test or inspect systems; perform simple and power grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine manipulation; and lift or carry weight of 50 pounds or less.

Read hydraulic gauges. Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority. Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software.

Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities. Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties. Communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Relate effectively with people of varied academic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy. Establish and maintain effective, cooperative and collaborative working relationships with others. Experience and Education Any combination of experience and education that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: Experience Two years of responsible experience operating heavy equipment. Education: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. License and Certificate Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California Class C driver's license.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California Class A driver's license with tanker and air brake endorsements within twelve months of appointment. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a fork lift certificate within twelve months of appointment. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Screening will consist of a competitive assessment of relevant education, training, and work experience to be followed by a written examination and/or an interview before an Oral Board to determine the most qualified candidates.

Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement to an interview, and the decision of the screening committee is final. Those candidates who are determined eligible for appointment to the position will be placed on the City's Certified Eligibility List. Applicants will receive written notification regarding the results of all phases of the recruitment process up to the establishment of the Eligibility List, if applicable.

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