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Grading Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

ESP Enterprises, Inc.

Dozer Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

This position requires precision and attention to detail to ensure that grading and excavation meet project specifications and safety standards. The operator will collaborate closely with site ...

Phillips, Inc.

Motor Grader Operator

Pearland, TX

You will be responsible for operating and maintaining motor graders to ensure the precise grading of construction sites, roads, and other surfaces. Your expertise will contribute to the overall ...

Phillips, Inc.

Motor Grader Operator

Houston, TX

You will be responsible for operating and maintaining motor graders to ensure the precise grading of construction sites, roads, and other surfaces. Your expertise will contribute to the overall ...

Phillips, Inc.

Motor Grader Operator

Pearland, TX · On-site

You will be responsible for operating and maintaining motor graders to ensure the precise grading of construction sites, roads, and other surfaces. Your expertise will contribute to the overall ...

Phillips, Inc.

Motor Grader Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

You will be responsible for operating and maintaining motor graders to ensure the precise grading of construction sites, roads, and other surfaces. Your expertise will contribute to the overall ...

DNT Construction

Heavy Equipment Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

This full-time, on-site role in Houston, TX involves: • Operating heavy machinery for excavation, grading, and site prep • Performing routine equipment maintenance • Following strict safety ...

Harris County, TX

Trailblazer Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Prepare and clear land in accordance with grading and site plans; interpret grade stakes and ... Proficient in operating a variety of construction and maintenance equipment. * Ability to safely ...

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All JobsGrading Operator JobsGrading Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Grading Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do grading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading operator in Houston, TX is $22.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the career path for grader operators?

Grader operators can advance to supervisory roles, equipment supervisors, or maintenance managers with experience and additional training. Gaining certifications in equipment operation and safety can also open opportunities for higher-level positions or specialized roles within construction or mining industries.

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 is the highest paid equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators, including crane, bulldozer, and excavator operators, tend to be among the highest paid in the industry, especially those with specialized skills and certifications. Crane operators, in particular, often earn higher wages due to the complexity and safety requirements of their work. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the type of equipment operated.

How much do Motor Grader operators make?

Motor Grader operators in North Carolina typically earn an average hourly wage of around $20 to $25, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $52,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Certain high-paying roles such as specialized contractors, freelance consultants, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers can earn around $700 a day, especially with experience and certifications. These jobs often require specific skills, tools, or licensing and may involve project-based or hourly work in demanding environments.
What are popular job titles related to Grading Operator jobs in Houston, TX? For Grading Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Grading Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Grading Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Grading Operator jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Grading Operator job openings:
Grading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grading Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,108 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Dozer Operator

Dozer Operator

ESP Enterprises, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

About the Role:

The Dozer Operator plays a critical role in construction, mining, and land development projects by expertly operating bulldozers to move earth, clear land, and prepare sites for building or other activities. This position requires precision and attention to detail to ensure that grading and excavation meet project specifications and safety standards. The operator will collaborate closely with site supervisors and other heavy equipment operators to maintain workflow efficiency and project timelines. Additionally, the role involves routine inspection and maintenance of the dozer to ensure optimal performance and safety compliance. Ultimately, the Dozer Operator contributes significantly to the successful completion of infrastructure and development projects by providing skilled machinery operation and site preparation.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Valid operator certification or license for heavy equipment operation, specifically bulldozers.
  • Proven experience operating bulldozers or similar heavy machinery in construction or land development environments.
  • Basic mechanical knowledge to perform routine equipment inspections and minor maintenance.
  • Ability to read and interpret site plans, blueprints, and grading specifications.
  • Strong understanding of workplace safety standards and practices.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Additional certifications in heavy equipment operation or safety training (e.g., OSHA certification).
  • Experience with GPS or laser-guided dozer technology for precision grading.
  • Previous work experience on large-scale infrastructure or mining projects.
  • Ability to operate multiple types of heavy machinery beyond bulldozers.
  • Strong communication skills to effectively coordinate with team members and supervisors.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate bulldozers to move soil, sand, rubble, and other materials according to project plans and specifications.
  • Perform site grading, leveling, and excavation tasks to prepare construction sites for foundations, roads, and other structures.
  • Conduct pre-operation inspections and routine maintenance on the dozer to ensure safe and efficient functioning.
  • Collaborate with site supervisors and other equipment operators to coordinate work activities and maintain project schedules.
  • Adhere strictly to safety protocols and regulatory requirements to minimize risks on the job site.

Skills:

The Dozer Operator uses technical skills daily to maneuver heavy machinery with precision, ensuring that earthmoving tasks align with project requirements. Mechanical aptitude is essential for conducting equipment inspections and troubleshooting minor issues to prevent downtime. Reading and interpreting site plans allows the operator to execute grading and excavation accurately, contributing to the structural integrity of the project. Safety awareness is paramount, as the operator must consistently apply safety protocols to protect themselves and coworkers in a dynamic work environment. Additionally, communication skills facilitate effective collaboration with team members, enabling smooth coordination and timely completion of project milestones.

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