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

Charah Solutions

Heavy Equipment Operator

Moncure, NC · On-site

... or motor grader in a safe and efficient manner. This position requires a multi-faceted track and ... Operator has a thorough understanding of construction surveying, including grade control and ...

Charah Solutions

Heavy Equipment Operator

Moncure, NC · On-site

... or motor grader in a safe and efficient manner. This position requires a multi-faceted track and ... Operator has a thorough understanding of construction surveying, including grade control and ...

Clean Harbors

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

... motor grader, soil compactor, articulating water truck, compact loader, compact excavator, and ... Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe ...

Sunrock

Heavy Equipment Operator

Kittrell, NC

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 ...

Sunrock

Heavy Equipment Operator

Butner, NC · On-site

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 ...

Sunrock

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

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 ...

Sunrock

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

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 ...

Sunrock

Heavy Equipment Operator

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

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 ...

Sunrock

Heavy Equipment Operator

Zebulon, NC · On-site

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 ...

Sunrock

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC

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 ...

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All JobsMotor Grader Operator JobsMotor Grader Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Motor Grader Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$16

$29

How much do motor grader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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.

How much do motor grader operators make?

Motor grader operators in North Carolina typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the equipment operated. The average annual salary ranges from approximately $31,000 to $52,000. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or road maintenance tend to earn higher wages.

How much does a grader operator make per hour?

A motor grader operator typically earns between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or road maintenance may earn higher wages.

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 does a grader operator earn?

A motor grader operator typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in large-scale projects may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is it hard to operate a motor grader?

Operating a motor grader requires training and experience to control the equipment accurately and safely. It involves understanding controls, grading techniques, and safety procedures, but with proper instruction, many find it manageable. Skill development and practice are essential for proficiency in this role.

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.

More about Motor Grader Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Motor Grader Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Motor Grader Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
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What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Motor Grader Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Motor Grader Operator job openings:
Motor Grader Operator jobs near you
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Charah Solutions

Moncure, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Overview

Do you thrive in a company in which you roll up your sleeves and get it done?  Do you want to work for a company that is people-centric, execution driven, accountability focused and marked by world-class safety, a high level of energy and unquestionable integrity? If so, come join us.  Charah Solutions is the leading provider of environmental services and byproduct sales to the power generation industry.

Based in Louisville, Kentucky, we assist utilities and independent power producers in sustainably managing and recycling ash byproducts generated from the combustion of coal in the production of electricity. With over 30 years of experience, we also design and implement solutions for ash pond management and closure, landfill construction, fly ash sales, and structural fill projects. To be our best, we need the best. At Charah Solutions, our best begins with you.

Charah Solutions offers: Competitive Pay, Medical, Dental, Vision, Company Paid Short- & Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, 401(k) with Company Contribution After 1 Year, Paid Time Off, Incredible Safety Record, and Well-Maintained Equipment.

This position is responsible for the use and operation of heavy construction equipment which could include a backhoe, front end loader, dozer, excavator, and/or motor grader in a safe and efficient manner.

This position requires a multi-faceted track and wheel driven heavy equipment operator that can safely, productively, and with proven skill, control, maneuver, and navigate numerous types of construction equipment to a high degree of grading and excavation accuracy. Operator has a thorough understanding of construction surveying, including grade control and elevations specific to engineered plans and specifications.

Responsibilities
  • Load and/or move various materials (ash, dirt, rock, etc.) using heavy construction equipment
  • Drive and maneuver equipment equipped with blades in successive passes over working areas to remove topsoil, vegetation and rocks to distribute and level earth or terrain
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed
  • Must be able to quickly and repeatedly adjust controls of machine to exact positions as necessary
  • Learn, follow, and promote all safety regulations
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Minimum three years' experience operating heavy equipment in a construction or similar environment required
  • Valid driver's license required
  • Experience operating in a production-focused environment preferred
  • Experience utilizing GPS grading systems (i.e. Trimble, Topcon) preferred
  • Knowledge of materials, methods, and tools involved in ash management, structural fills and landfills preferred
  • Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance preferred
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Work Environment & Conditions
  • This position requires a flexible work schedule: nights, weekends, holidays, and/or overtime
  • Must be able to climb, maintain body equilibrium, reach, grasp, bend and walk/stand/sit for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to hear and see naturally or with correction
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Be subject to loud noises
  • Be subject to atmospheric conditions - one or more of the following conditions that affect the respiratory system or the skin: fumes, odor, dust, mists, gases, or poor ventilation
  • This position requires working in the internal and external environment
  • Ability to work independently and as a team
  • Ability to work under pressure with time constraints in a changing environment
  • Ability to effectively communicate
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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