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Underground Grader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Venus Construction Company

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Equipment Operator - Underground Electric

Mansfield, TX · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

The Equipment Operator - Underground Electric operates construction equipment to support ... grade, and prepare work areas for conduit, duct banks, vaults, handholes, and related underground ...

Northern Star Pogo LLC

Underground Miner

Delta Junction, AK · On-site

$24 - $24.50/hr

Experience operating underground mining equipment such as Trucks, Light Vehicles, Charge Wagon, Bogger, Tele-remote equipment, Integrated Tool Carrier, Skid Steer, Zoom Boom, Grader, Long Hole Drill ...

Northern Star Pogo LLC

Underground Miner

Delta Junction, AK · On-site

$24 - $24.50/hr

Experience operating underground mining equipment such as Trucks, Light Vehicles, Charge Wagon, Bogger, Tele-remote equipment, Integrated Tool Carrier, Skid Steer, Zoom Boom, Grader, Long Hole Drill ...

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Underground Grader Operator information

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$9

$17

$30

How much do underground grader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground grader operator in the United States is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Underground grader operators typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial pilots, certain sales roles, or entrepreneurship, but these usually require specific skills, licenses, or significant experience. Most roles paying this much without a degree are rare and often involve high risk or specialized expertise.

What is the difference between Underground Grader Operator vs Surface Grader Operator?

AspectUnderground Grader OperatorSurface Grader Operator
CertificationsHeavy equipment operation, safety training, possibly underground-specific certificationsHeavy equipment operation, safety training, general grading certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderground mining tunnels, confined spaces, lower lightingOpen outdoor sites, construction or mining surfaces, daylight
Industry UsageMining, tunneling projectsConstruction, road maintenance, surface mining

The main difference between an Underground Grader Operator and a Surface Grader Operator lies in their work environment and specific certifications. Underground Grader Operators work in confined underground mining tunnels, requiring specialized safety training, while Surface Grader Operators work outdoors on open surfaces. Both roles involve operating heavy grading equipment but are tailored to different settings within the construction and mining industries.

What are Underground Grader Operators?

Underground Grader Operators are skilled workers who operate motor graders and similar heavy equipment in underground mining environments. Their primary role is to maintain roadways, level surfaces, and ensure safe and efficient movement of vehicles and personnel within mines. They are responsible for grading, shaping, and repairing underground tunnels and haulage ways, often working in challenging and confined conditions. These operators must adhere to strict safety protocols and typically require specialized training in both equipment operation and underground mining practices.

How much do operators get paid in the mines?

Underground grader operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work. Salaries can also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, with some positions offering overtime pay for extended shifts.

How much does a grader operator make per hour?

Underground grader operators typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating heavy machinery may earn higher wages, especially in remote or high-demand areas.

What are the common challenges faced by Underground Grader Operators and how can they be addressed?

Underground Grader Operators often work in confined, low-light environments with uneven terrain, which can make equipment maneuvering and visibility challenging. To address these issues, operators must maintain strong communication with other crew members, adhere to strict safety protocols, and regularly inspect their equipment for optimal performance. Ongoing training and familiarity with site-specific procedures also help operators adapt to changing underground conditions, ensuring both efficiency and safety on the job.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Underground grader operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily wages are more common in specialized or executive roles. High-paying jobs that can reach this level include certain construction project managers, specialized contractors, or executives in the mining or oil industries, often requiring extensive experience, certifications, and working in remote or high-risk environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Underground Grader Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underground Grader Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience with heavy equipment operation, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with underground mining equipment, machine control systems, and relevant safety certifications such as MSHA are important technical requirements. Attention to detail, communication, and the ability to work under pressure in confined environments are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure safety, operational efficiency, and the proper maintenance of mining infrastructure in challenging underground settings.
More about Underground Grader Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Underground Grader Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Grader Operator jobs are:
Underground Grader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Grader Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,535 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Excavator Operator - Underground Utilities (Water & Sewer)

Excavator Operator - Underground Utilities (Water & Sewer)

Leoterra Development

Wilmington, NC • On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate excavators to dig trenches for water, sewer, and storm drain installation.

  • Assist pipe layers with setting pipe, fittings, manholes, and structures.

  • Follow trench safety and OSHA excavation standards.

Job description

Excavator Operator – Underground Utilities (Water & Sewer)

Location: Wilmington, NC Company: LeoTerra Siteworks Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Excavator Operator with experience in underground utility installation (water, sewer, and storm drain). This position is responsible for operating heavy equipment to excavate trenches, set pipe, and support underground utility crews while maintaining proper grade and ensuring site safety.

The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of trenching operations, utility depth requirements, and works effectively with pipe crews in a fast-paced field environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate excavators to dig trenches for water, sewer, and storm drain installation
  • Excavate to proper line and grade using laser and grade stakes
  • Safely work around existing underground utilities
  • Assist pipe layers with setting pipe, fittings, manholes, and structures
  • Load trucks and move materials as needed
  • Follow trench safety and OSHA excavation standards
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
  • Maintain clean and organized job sites
  • Work closely with foreman and crew members to meet production goals

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience operating excavators in underground utility work
  • Experience with water, sewer, and storm drainage installation preferred
  • Ability to read grade stakes and understand project plans
  • Knowledge of trench safety and excavation regulations
  • Strong attention to safety and situational awareness
  • Valid driver's license required (CDL preferred but not required)
  • Reliable transportation

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Ability to climb in and out of equipment repeatedly
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds when assisting crew

Job Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Health, vision, dental, and life insurance benefits
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Opportunities for career growth and professional development

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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