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Grading Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cary, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cary, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Apex, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

Sunrock Industries

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work * Assist with finish ... Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members * Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and ...

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All JobsGrading Operator JobsGrading Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Grading Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do grading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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 are popular job titles related to Grading Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Grading Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Grading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grading Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,952 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sunrock Industries

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Sunrock Industries is Currently Hiring Heavy Equipment Operators and Experienced Pipe Layers for our Asphalt/Paving Division
Durham, NC
What We Offer:
  • Highly competitive pay is based on skill and certifications, paid weekly
    • $21 - $35 per hour, based on experience
  • 2 weeks of PTO, Increases up to 4 weeks with service
  • 8 paid holidays start on day 1
  • Guaranteed 40 hours (Winter)
  • Up to $1000 sign on bonus for verified experience
  • Ability to earn extra cash with $1000 referral program
  • Full benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life)
  • Disability and other benefits that pay CASH directly to you
  • 401(k) with 4% company match
  • Safety Incentive Program
  • Apprenticeship and Lead/Foreman Development Programs
  • Well-maintained modern equipment.
  • Heavy Equipment Operator Key Responsibilities:
  • 3+ years of experience:
    • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, dozers, loaders, skid steers, backhoes, and compactors
    • Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work
    • Assist with finish grade and fine grade work under guidance
    • Support trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and compaction operations
    • Read and follow grade stakes, cut/fill requirements, and project plans
    • Conduct daily pre-operation inspections and perform basic maintenance
    • Identify mechanical or safety issues and report promptly
    • Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members
    • Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and company safety standards
  • 5+ years of experience:
    • Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers, and trenching equipment
    • Perform precise finish grade and fine grade work for grading, utilities, and civil construction projects
    • Interpret grade stakes, GPS grade control, cut/fill requirements, and slope tolerances
    • Execute trenching, backfilling, pipe installation, and complex site preparation
    • Lead by example in production, quality, and safety
    • Perform advanced equipment checks, troubleshooting, and basic repairs
    • Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination
    • Maintain compliance with OSHA / NCDOT / company policies
  • Heavy Equipment Operator Minimum Qualifications:
  • 3+ years of experience OR 6,000+ hoursof heavy equipment operation
  • Experience supportinggrading and/or underground utility construction
  • Ability to read grade stakes and understand elevations and slopes
  • Demonstrated safe operation of multiple equipment types
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • OR
  • 5+ years OR 10,000+ hoursof heavy equipment operation ingrading and/or utility construction
  • Proven ability to performfinish gradeandfine gradework accurately
  • Strong understanding of elevations, slopes, blueprints, and grade control
  • Ability to operate multiple types of equipment at a high skill level
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • Valid North Carolina Driver's License required
About Sunrock Industries

Headquartered in Raleigh, NC, Sunrock Industries is a leading privately held construction materials supplier. As a vertically integrated company, we produce aggregates, hot mix asphalt, and ready-mixed concrete materials. We also provide a variety of contracting services to our customers.

From our beginning as a small sand and gravel business to our current status as one of North Carolina's premier aggregate suppliers, we have shown the utmost respect to our team, our clients, and the communities in which we operate. Maybe that's why, after 75 years, our reputation for quality, integrity, and service is as solid as ever.

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