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Motor Grader Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

University of Michigan

GRADER I (TEMP)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

There is an immediate need for a Grader I in N232 - Health Assessment for the Fall 2026 term. Work may include, but is not imited to, assisting with undergraduate grading activity including but not ...

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All JobsMotor Grader Operator JobsMotor Grader Operator Jobs in Michigan

Motor Grader Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$14

$26

How much do motor grader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for motor grader operator in Michigan is $14.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.05 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a motor grader operator?

A motor grader operator mixes materials and operates a grader and other heavy equipment to spread and level materials such as gravel, stone, and dirt to prep and construct roads. In this role, your responsibilities include meeting grade specs for freeways, public and temporary streets, airports, and more. You maneuver equipment to complete fine or rough grade finishing and adhere to all safety requirements when operating machinery, which can be self-propelled or drawn by a tractor. Other duties include cleaning and performing safety checks and maintenance on all equipment, training new employees, and completing other construction tasks as assigned. Some employers require your attendance at safety meetings as well.

What does a motor grader operator do?

A Motor Grader Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery known as a motor grader to create a smooth, flat surface during road construction, maintenance, or other large-scale civil engineering projects. Their tasks include spreading and leveling materials such as gravel or asphalt, shaping roadways, and ensuring proper drainage. Operators must have a solid understanding of grading plans, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance to perform their job efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a motor grader operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Motor Grader Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, grading techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or vocational training. Familiarity with motor grader controls, GPS grading systems, and adherence to safety regulations are essential technical requirements. Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help operators efficiently coordinate with team members and adjust to varying site conditions. These competencies ensure precise grading, safe work environments, and efficient project completion in construction and roadwork settings.

What are some common challenges faced by motor grader operators on construction sites?

Motor Grader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing uneven or unstable terrain, and maintaining precise grading to meet project specifications. Operators must also coordinate closely with other crew members and equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency on busy job sites. Staying attentive to both machine maintenance and changing site conditions is key to preventing delays and ensuring high-quality results.

What is the difference between Motor Grader Operator vs Bulldozer Operator?

AspectMotor Grader OperatorBulldozer Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred, certification in equipment operationSimilar certifications, often CDL or specific heavy equipment licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, road maintenance, grading projectsConstruction sites, land clearing, excavation projects
Industry UsageRoad construction, maintenance, landscapingEarthmoving, demolition, site preparation

Both Motor Grader Operators and Bulldozer Operators work in construction and earthmoving environments, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference lies in their equipment and tasks: Motor Grader Operators focus on precise grading and finishing surfaces, while Bulldozer Operators handle heavy pushing and land clearing. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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. Skilled operators with certifications and experience tend to earn higher wages and may work longer or more specialized shifts.
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Motor Grader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Motor Grader Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,972 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Grader Operator

Pyramid Paving & Contracting Co

Bay City, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Pyramid Paving & Contracting Co. is seeking an experienced Grader Operator to join our team. We are proud to be one of the leading union asphalt paving companies in the area, focusing on commercial parking lots, and county and state roads. We cover portions of Northern and Central Michigan, as well as the Thumb, with asphalt plants in Essexville and West Branch. We have a proven track record of excellence and have been in business for over forty years. Pyramid Paving & Contracting Co. knows that its success is driven by the talented individuals that it employs and fosters a culture of rewarding employees for their strong work ethic and dedication to the company.

A robust benefits plan including, but not limited to pension, healthcare, and vacation compensation is offered through the Operating Engineers Union Local 324.

This is a full-time position with a seasonal layoff.

The pay for this position is subject to union scale wages.

Duties and responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to:

(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. This list of tasks is illustrative ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class. It does not imply that all positions within the class perform all of the duties listed, nor does it necessarily list all possible duties that may be assigned.)

  • Operate a motor grader to finegrade aggregate base, subgrade, and asphalt surfaces to specified elevations and crossslopes
  • Read and interpret grade stakes, stringlines, blueprints, and paving plans
  • Work closely with paving foremen, screed operators, and QC staff to achieve proper mat thickness and drainage
  • Maintain consistent grade control to meet MDOT and project specifications
  • Perform finish grading ahead of paving operations and corrective grading behind paving as needed
  • Conduct daily preoperation inspections of the grader and report maintenance issues promptly
  • Perform routine equipment maintenance, including lubrication and cleaning

    • Safely maneuver equipment around personnel, traffic, and obstacles on active job sites

  • Follow all company safety policies, MIOSHA requirements, and traffic control procedures
  • Assist with other duties on the paving crew as needed, including site prep and cleanup.

    • Individuals who meet the following qualifications for this position will be considered:

  • High School Diploma or GED, preferred;
  • Valid Class A CDL license holder with uptodate MDOT Medical Certification, required;
  • Proven experience, at least one year, operating a motor grader fulltime on asphalt paving or road construction projects;
  • Strong understanding of grade control, cross slope, and drainage requirements;
  • Ability to read grade stakes, plans, and construction drawings;
  • Experience working with paving crews and understanding paving sequencing;
  • Mechanical aptitude to identify equipment issues and perform basic maintenance;
  • Commitment to jobsite safety and safe equipment operation;
  • Ability to work long hours, including nights and weekends, as project schedules require;
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

    • If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career in the paving industry, then please apply today!

    An Equal Opportunity Employer

Apply