Fine Grade Operator

Essential Duties And 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.
• Absorb rough grading when required while prioritizing finish work.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as motor grader, dozer, excavator, skid steer, compact track loader, and vibratory roller (as needed).
• Utilize GPS machine control systems (Trimble, Topcon, Leica, etc.) and understand cut/fill displays and design surfaces.
• Verify benchmarks and control points before beginning work and 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.
• Able 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.

Benefits

Compensation is based on experience and qualifications. 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!