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Grading Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator (DUKE)

Raleigh, NC

$17 - $23.25/hr

As an Equipment Operator (EO) your primary responsibility is to operate and maintain a range of ... Civil/Site Grading AND Many More! We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across ...

Equipment Operator (DUKE)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

As an Equipment Operator (EO) your primary responsibility is to operate and maintain a range of ... Civil/Site Grading AND Many More! We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across ...

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Cary, NC · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

As an Excavator Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may ...

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Apex, NC · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

As an Excavator Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may ...

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

As an Excavator Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may ...

General Operator

Cary, NC · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

As a Heavy Equipment Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The heavy ...

Backfill Operator

Cary, NC · On-site

$21.75 - $28/hr

As a Backfill Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The Operator may ...

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Cary, NC · On-site

$23 - $30.25/hr

As an Excavator Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may ...

Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

... grading, preparing soil, and planting. Additional Duties * Due to the dynamic nature of the club ... A minimum of 1 year of experience operating equipment in a golf course or landscaping environment.

Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

... grading, preparing soil, and planting. Additional Duties * Due to the dynamic nature of the club ... A minimum of 1 year of experience operating equipment in a golf course or landscaping environment.

Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

... grading, preparing soil, and planting. Additional Duties * Due to the dynamic nature of the club ... A minimum of 1 year of experience operating equipment in a golf course or landscaping environment.

Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

... grading, preparing soil, and planting. Additional Duties * Due to the dynamic nature of the club ... A minimum of 1 year of experience operating equipment in a golf course or landscaping environment.

Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... grading, preparing soil, and planting. Additional Duties * Due to the dynamic nature of the club ... A minimum of 1 year of experience operating equipment in a golf course or landscaping environment.

Production Operator

Moncure, NC · On-site

$23.92/hr

Deliver accuracy and consistency by operating production-related computer systems and sampling, splitting, and grading equipment at a high level of precision Your Skills and Expertise To set you up ...

Production Operator

Moncure, NC · On-site

$23.92/hr

Deliver accuracy and consistency by operating production-related computer systems and sampling, splitting, and grading equipment at a high level of precision Your Skills and Expertise To set you up ...

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Showing results 1-20

Grading Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do grading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for grading operator in Raleigh, NC is $23.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $26.15 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 job categories do people searching Grading Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Grading Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Grading Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Grading Operator job openings:
Equipment Operator (DUKE)

$17 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

As an Equipment Operator (EO) your primary responsibility is to operate and maintain a range of specialized forestry equipment, such as Jarraffs, brush cutters, and Timberlands. 

Essential Functions:

 As an Equipment Operator you will support your team by:

  • Prioritizing safety in all tasks and operations.
  • Demonstrating trustworthiness and responsibility while performing daily tasks.
  • Experience may vary in operating specialized equipment and performing tasks related to line clearance work, such as pruning and removing trees near electrical conductors.
  • Must be thoroughly knowledgeable of the particular machines assigned to operate and all safety aspects of its operation.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Valid driver's license.
  • 1-year previous experience.
  • Able to read and communicate effectively in English.
  • Bilingual (Spanish / English) a plus.
  • A Commercial Driver's License is strongly preferred.
  • Able to travel long distances on short notice, when required.
  • Readily join storm restoration efforts in times of need.
  • Able to work for extended periods in various locations, when required.
  • Able to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
  • Willing to work over-time when requested.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

Other Requirements:

  • Properly inspect Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Understand when to wear personal protective equipment.
  • Maintain company vehicles, equipment, and tools in good working order.
  • Able to perform rigorous physical labor.
  • Understand proper use of company radio.
  • Understand the proper use and maintenance of hand tools.
  • Capable of receiving and following directions.
  • Capable of working at heights and/or confined spaces.
  • Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather.
  • Does all other related work as required to complete the job.
  • Able to read/write and communicate effectively.
  • Dutifully follows established Safety Rules and Company Policy.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are typical of those that must be met by a team-member to successfully perform the essential functions of their job in vegetation management.

While performing the duties of this job, team-members are regularly required to talk or hear. The team-member is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, and feel; and reach with hands and arms.

The team-member is frequently required to perform rigorous physical labor; sit; standing for extended periods of time; or balance; and stoop, kneel crouch or crawl. Team-members frequently lift or move up to or in-excess of 50 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:


While performing the duties of this job, team-members may frequently be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration. Team-members are occasionally exposed to a variety of extreme conditions at construction job sites. The noise level in the work environment can be loud. Vegetation clearing work is performed outside and is subject to diverse weather conditions.

 Competencies:

  • Team-Oriented
  • Self-Motivated
  • Customer Service Focused
  • Ethical and Honest
  • Responsible
  • Trustworthy
  • Ethical
  • Honest
  • Punctual
  • Excellent communication skills

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled

Burford's Construction is a Non-Union Company
NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as requested to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Burford's Construction is a leading provider of services in the electric utility industry throughout the Southeastern, Midwestern, and Western United States. With a great team of qualified professionals, Burford's Construction can serve all project needs.

Those services include:

  • Vegetation Maintenance
  • New ROW Clearing
  • ROW Reclamation/Widening
  • Erosion Control
  • Access Matting
  • Civil/Site Grading AND Many More!

We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across our service territory in Transmission, Distribution, and Generation. It is our belief that our work entails a true partnership with our clients to consistently exceed expectations. Our company culture and core values of safety for all, environmental stewardship, diversity and inclusion, customer service, and productivity are integral in every partnership.


Burford's Construction is a leading provider of services in the electric utility industry throughout the Southeastern, Midwestern, and Western United States. With a great team of qualified professionals, Burford's Construction can serve all project needs.

Those services include:

  • Vegetation Maintenance
  • New ROW Clearing
  • ROW Reclamation/Widening
  • Erosion Control
  • Access Matting
  • Civil/Site Grading AND Many More!

We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across our service territory in Transmission, Distribution, and Generation. It is our belief that our work entails a true partnership with our clients to consistently exceed expectations. Our company culture and core values of safety for all, environmental stewardship, diversity and inclusion, customer service, and productivity are integral in every partnership.