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Motor Grader Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers ... Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination * Maintain ...

Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers ... Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination * Maintain ...

Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers ... Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination * Maintain ...

Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers ... Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination * Maintain ...

Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers ... Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination * Maintain ...

Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers ... Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination * Maintain ...

Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers ... Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination * Maintain ...

Responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to front-end loaders, skid-steers, trackhoes, backhoes, excavators, dozers, motor graders and trenchers. Job Functions:

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Motor Grader Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$16

$29

How much do motor grader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for motor grader operator in Raleigh, NC is $16.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.20 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Motor Grader Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Motor Grader Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Motor Grader Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Motor Grader Operator job openings:
Fine Grade Operator

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

New


Job description

Thalle Construction Company Co., Inc. (Thalle) is excited to announce an open opportunity to expand our Team!
Thalle is currently seeking an experienced and motivated candidate to fill Fine Grade Operator position at our project located in Clayton, NC.
Thalle, established in 1947, is a heavy civil construction company with a corporate office located in Hillsborough, NC and a regional office in Alvarado, Texas. Thalle currently has active heavy civil construction projects spanning from New York to South Florida to Texas and continuing to expand our geographical footprint. Our diverse and expansive project scope of heavy civil infrastructure projects incorporates all degrees of civil construction that includes but is not limited to; Conventional Concrete, Roller Compacted Concrete and Earthen Dams, Navigational Waterway Locks, Reservoirs, Large Diameter Underground Utilities, Treatment Facilities, Landfills, Site Work, Mass Soil & Rock Excavation, Coal Ash Closures, DOT Highway & Bridge Construction, and on demand emergency services, etc.
We are a proud representative of The Tully Group (Tully) who was established in 1921 and developed into one of the nation's largest privately held, family-owned construction firms. Tully's corporate office, located in New York City, has provided an opportunity to develop and sustain a long history of heavy civil projects in the Metro New York Area and New Jersey. Visit www.tullygroup.us and Thalle.com for more information.
Safety is our TOP priority! Thalle offers a competitive compensation with a full range of benefits, including Major Medical, Dental, Vision, Short and Long-Term Disability, generous PTO, paid company holidays, Life Insurance, and 401K with a company match, and more! Compensation is based on experience and qualifications.
Thalle is an Equal Opportunity Employer, E-Verify and Drug Free Workplace.
Job Title: Fine Grade Operator
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
A Fine Grade Operator is responsible for producing precise finished grades for foundations, utilities, roadways, slabs, and site improvements. The operator works closely with survey crews, grade foremen, and superintendents to ensure all elevations and slopes meet project specifications.
Primary Responsibilities
• Operate GPS- and laser-guided equipment to achieve final design grades.
• Fine grade building pads, roadways, parking lots, sidewalks, and utility trenches.
• Read and interpret grading plans, profiles, cross sections, and survey stakes.
• Verify finished elevations, slopes, and drainage requirements.
• Maintain tight tolerances required for concrete, asphalt, and structural work.
• Assist with rough grading when required while prioritizing finish work.
Equipment Operation
Operate and maintain equipment such as:
• Motor grader
• Dozer
• Excavator
• Skid steer
• Compact track loader
• Vibratory roller (as needed)
GPS & Survey Responsibilities
• Utilize GPS machine control systems (Trimble, Topcon, Leica, etc.).
• Understand cut/fill displays and design surfaces.
• Verify benchmarks and control points before beginning work.
• Work directly with survey personnel to resolve discrepancies.
• Report any conflicts between plans and field conditions.
Quality Responsibilities
• Produce smooth, accurate finish grades within specified tolerances.
• Ensure proper drainage and positive flow away from structures.
• Prevent over-excavation and unnecessary rework.
• Perform daily grade checks throughout operations.
• Leave work ready for inspection and the next construction activity.
Safety Responsibilities
• Perform daily equipment inspections.
• Operate equipment safely around personnel, utilities, and existing structures.
• Follow excavation safety requirements and utility clearance procedures.
• Maintain situational awareness around multiple trades and moving equipment.
• Report hazards, equipment defects, and unsafe conditions immediately.
Productivity Expectations
• Complete assigned grading efficiently while maintaining accuracy.
• Minimize material waste and unnecessary machine movement.
• Coordinate with truck drivers, laborers, and other operators to maintain production.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas.
Communication
• Coordinate daily activities with the Grade Foreman and Superintendent.
• Communicate grade or layout issues before they affect production.
• Notify supervisors when survey or design clarification is needed.
• Support other crews as project priorities change.
Required Skills
• Proficiency operating GPS- and laser-controlled grading equipment.
• Ability to read civil drawings and grading plans.
• Strong understanding of elevations, slopes, and drainage.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of soil behavior, compaction, and grading best practices.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Performance Expectations
A successful Fine Grade Operator consistently:
• Produces accurate finish grades with minimal rework.
• Works safely and protects personnel and underground utilities.
• Maximizes equipment productivity while minimizing fuel and wear.
• Communicates effectively with survey crews and supervisors.
• Delivers high-quality finished surfaces that are ready for the next phase of construction.
Ability to perform the essential job functions consistent safely and successfully with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
Thalle is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status or any other characteristic protected under federal, state or local law.
Thalle is an Equal Opportunity Employer, E-Verify user, and Drug Free Workplace.