Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support construction, excavation, grading, paving, lifting, and material handling activities while following project specifications and ...
Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support construction, excavation, grading, paving, lifting, and material handling activities while following project specifications and ...
Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support construction, excavation, grading, paving, lifting, and material handling activities while following project specifications and ...
Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support construction, excavation, grading, paving, lifting, and material handling activities while following project specifications and ...
Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support construction, excavation, grading, paving, lifting, and material handling activities while following project specifications and ...
Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support construction, excavation, grading, paving, lifting, and material handling activities while following project specifications and ...
Civil Engineer - Solar (Multiple Locations)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$95K - $155K/yr
... scale solar to battery storage, hydrogen, carbon capture, and nuclear plant services. Burns ... Experience using AutoCAD Civil 3D and the ability to perform mass grading using: road corridors ...
Civil Engineer - Solar (Multiple Locations)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$95K - $155K/yr
... scale solar to battery storage, hydrogen, carbon capture, and nuclear plant services. Burns ... Experience using AutoCAD Civil 3D and the ability to perform mass grading using: road corridors ...
This position focuses on developing the critical infrastructure required for utility-scale solar ... Design and revise site plans, grading plans, utility profiles, drainage networks, and modeling ...
This position focuses on developing the critical infrastructure required for utility-scale solar ... Design and revise site plans, grading plans, utility profiles, drainage networks, and modeling ...
Senior Civil Engineer (Chicago)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$131K - $205K/yr
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer (Chicago)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$131K - $205K/yr
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Mid-Level Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Mid-Level Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$118K - $180K/yr
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$118K - $180K/yr
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Mid-Level Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$84.76 - $129.50/hr
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Mid-Level Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$84.76 - $129.50/hr
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Mid-Level Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Mid-Level Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Mid-Level Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$84K - $129K/yr
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Mid-Level Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$84K - $129K/yr
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Senior Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
... grading and drainage, storm sewer systems, road design, transport plans, track design, and ponds * Power plant (combined cycle, simple cycle, nuclear, wind, solar) project design experience.
Experience working on site layouts, site grading, roadway design, utility design, vehicular and/or ... solar/wind) infrastructures and facilities preferred Salary is commensurate with experience.
Quick apply
Experience working on site layouts, site grading, roadway design, utility design, vehicular and/or ... solar/wind) infrastructures and facilities preferred Salary is commensurate with experience.
Assistant Civil Designer - Power (Chicago)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$36 - $44/hr
This position focuses on developing the critical infrastructure required for utility-scale solar ... Design and revise site plans, grading plans, utility profiles, drainage networks, and modeling ...
Assistant Civil Designer - Power (Chicago)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$36 - $44/hr
This position focuses on developing the critical infrastructure required for utility-scale solar ... Design and revise site plans, grading plans, utility profiles, drainage networks, and modeling ...
Staff Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$80K - $85K/yr
Support site layout and grading design for renewable energy solar farms and related facilities. * Preparation of permit and bidding documents. * Preparation of construction and repair cost estimates.
Staff Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
$80K - $85K/yr
Support site layout and grading design for renewable energy solar farms and related facilities. * Preparation of permit and bidding documents. * Preparation of construction and repair cost estimates.
Staff Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
Support site layout and grading design for renewable energy solar farms and related facilities. * Preparation of permit and bidding documents. * Preparation of construction and repair cost estimates.
Staff Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · On-site
Support site layout and grading design for renewable energy solar farms and related facilities. * Preparation of permit and bidding documents. * Preparation of construction and repair cost estimates.
Staff Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
$80K - $85K/yr
Support site layout and grading design for renewable energy solar farms and related facilities. * Preparation of permit and bidding documents. * Preparation of construction and repair cost estimates.
Staff Civil Engineer
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
$80K - $85K/yr
Support site layout and grading design for renewable energy solar farms and related facilities. * Preparation of permit and bidding documents. * Preparation of construction and repair cost estimates.
Senior Professional Engineer, Civil - Site Design
Downers Grove, IL · Hybrid
$105K - $135K/yr
... layouts, site grading, roadway design, utility design, vehicular and/or pedestrian access ... Prior management and site design experience for renewable energy (solar and/or wind) infrastructure ...
Senior Professional Engineer, Civil - Site Design
Downers Grove, IL · Hybrid
$105K - $135K/yr
... layouts, site grading, roadway design, utility design, vehicular and/or pedestrian access ... Prior management and site design experience for renewable energy (solar and/or wind) infrastructure ...
Solar Grading information
See Chicago, IL salary details
$61.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$50.5K - $61.1K
25% of jobs
$61.1K - $71.7K
22% of jobs
$71.7K - $82.4K
1% of jobs
$82.4K - $93K
0% of jobs
$93K - $103.6K
0% of jobs
$103.6K - $114.3K
0% of jobs
The median wage is $116.6K / yr.
$114.3K - $124.9K
9% of jobs
$124.9K - $135.5K
7% of jobs
$142.6K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$135.5K - $146.1K
16% of jobs
$146.1K - $156.8K
15% of jobs
$156.8K - $167.4K
5% of jobs
$50.5K
$106.1K
$167.4K
How much do solar grading jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar grading in Chicago, IL is $106,058.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,800.00 and $145,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is solar grading?
Solar grading refers to the process of preparing and leveling land for the installation of solar panels and related infrastructure. This involves removing obstacles, shaping the terrain, and ensuring proper drainage to support solar arrays. Proper grading ensures stability, maximizes sunlight exposure, and helps prevent issues like erosion or water pooling around the solar equipment. It is a crucial step in constructing efficient and long-lasting solar energy systems.
What are the typical daily responsibilities of a solar grading technician?
In a solar grading role, your daily tasks typically include operating heavy machinery to level and prepare land for solar panel installation, ensuring that the ground is stable and properly sloped for optimal panel alignment and drainage. You'll work closely with site engineers and construction teams to interpret site plans, address any unexpected terrain challenges, and maintain safety standards on-site. This role is critical to the overall success of a solar project, as precise grading directly impacts the structural integrity and efficiency of the solar array. Attention to detail and teamwork are essential, as you’ll collaborate with multiple trades throughout the installation process.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar grading technician?
To thrive as a Solar Grading Technician, you need experience in site preparation, earthmoving, and familiarity with construction drawings, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Proficiency with heavy machinery such as graders, bulldozers, and GPS-based grading systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and precise preparation of sites for solar panel installation, which is critical for project success.
What is the difference between Solar Grading vs Solar Installer?
| Aspect | Solar Grading | Solar Installer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires electrical or construction certifications | Requires electrical, roofing, or general construction certifications |
| Work Environment | Primarily on rooftops or solar sites, focusing on system assessment | On-site installation, including mounting panels and wiring |
| Industry Usage | Involved in system evaluation and preparation | Hands-on installation and setup of solar systems |
Solar Grading and Solar Installer roles often overlap but differ mainly in focus. Solar Grading involves assessing and preparing sites, while Solar Installers handle the physical installation. Both require technical certifications and work outdoors, but their daily tasks and responsibilities vary significantly.
What are popular job titles related to Solar Grading jobs in Chicago, IL?
For Solar Grading jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Grading jobs in Chicago, IL look for?
The top searched job categories for Solar Grading jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Full-time
Re-posted 27 days ago
Job description
Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support construction, excavation, grading, paving, lifting, and material handling activities while following project specifications and safety regulations.
Common Duties & Responsibilities
- Operate heavy equipment such as:
- Excavators
- Bulldozers
- Loaders
- Cranes
- Backhoes
- Graders
- Forklifts
- Rollers and compactors
- Read and follow site plans, grade stakes, and project instructions
- Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
- Identify and report mechanical or safety issues
- Work closely with superintendents, laborers, and trade crews
- Follow OSHA and company safety procedures
- Maintain accurate work logs and equipment records
- Assist with site preparation, trenching, lifting, grading, demolition, or paving operations
- Ensure proper equipment setup and shutdown procedures