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Motor Grader 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 JobsMotor Grader Jobs in Michigan

Motor Grader information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$14

$26

How much do motor grader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for motor grader 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?

A motor grader is a heavy construction machine equipped with a long blade used to create a flat surface during grading projects. It is commonly used for road construction, maintenance, and shaping the ground for building sites. Motor graders can finely level surfaces, spread materials, and create slopes or drainage ditches. Their adjustable blade and articulated frame provide precision and versatility, making them essential for many large-scale earthmoving tasks.

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

To thrive as a Motor Grader Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, road construction techniques, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with specialized training or certifications. Familiarity with GPS grade control systems, maintenance tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, spatial awareness, and strong communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring projects are completed accurately, efficiently, and safely in construction environments.

What are some common challenges faced by motor grader operators and how can they be addressed?

Motor Grader operators often encounter challenges such as working on uneven or unstable terrain, maintaining high precision when grading, and adapting to varying weather conditions. To address these, operators rely on regular equipment inspections, ongoing safety training, and strong communication with site supervisors and other crew members. Gaining experience and staying updated on the latest grading technologies also help operators manage these challenges efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Motor Grader vs Bulldozer?

AspectMotor GraderBulldozer
Primary UseFine grading, shaping surfaces, road constructionHeavy pushing, land clearing, rough grading
Work EnvironmentRoad construction sites, grading projectsLand clearing, demolition, large-scale earthmoving
Required CertificationsOperator license, safety trainingOperator license, safety training

Motor Graders and Bulldozers are both essential earthmoving equipment but serve different purposes. Motor Graders excel in precise grading and shaping surfaces, making them ideal for road construction. Bulldozers are better suited for heavy pushing and rough land clearing. While both require operator licensing and safety training, their applications and functions differ significantly.

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 may earn higher wages.

What are popular job titles related to Motor Grader jobs in Michigan?

For Motor Grader jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Motor Grader jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Motor Grader jobs in Michigan are:

Motor Grader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Motor Grader job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% 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 12 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

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