Job Title: Operator Grader
Company: Loenbro, LLC
Business Unit/Department: Loenbro – South Region
Location: Afton, TX / On-site
Reports to: Operator Foreman
Employment Type: Full-Time
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
About Loenbro
Loenbro is a trusted, long-term construction lifecycle partner to thousands of customers across the U.S. Our market spans all industries and our service offerings include Critical Electrical, Mechanical & Structural, Soft Crafts, Inspection, Underground Maintenance and Installation, and Fabrication. Our expertise lies in simplifying the complex and establishing long-standing relationships with our partners. We have a national presence but a local approach—every customer benefits from our capabilities and our care.
At Loenbro, we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers grounded in integrity, teamwork, excellence, and purpose. Join a team where your expertise is valued, your growth is supported, and your work helps maintain and enhance the critical infrastructure that powers communities across the nation.
The UMI Operator Grader is responsible for operating motor graders and other heavy equipment in support of underground utility maintenance, inspection, repair, and restoration activities. This position performs precision grading, site preparation, roadway restoration, and finish work associated with underground utility projects while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality, and productivity. The Operator Grader works closely with foremen, superintendents, and field crews to ensure project specifications and grade requirements are met.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Operate motor graders and other heavy construction equipment in support of underground utility maintenance and inspection projects.
- Perform rough and finish grading for excavation, trenching, backfill, and site restoration activities.
- Establish and maintain proper grades, slopes, drainage patterns, and elevations according to project specifications.
- Read and interpret construction drawings, utility maps, grade stakes, blueprints, and survey information.
- Prepare surfaces for paving, concrete work, aggregate placement, and final restoration.
- Assist crews with excavation, trench backfilling, utility installations, repairs, and maintenance activities as needed.
- Inspect and maintain roadways, easements, rights-of-way, and utility corridors following maintenance and inspection work.
- Conduct pre-operation equipment inspections and identify mechanical issues requiring maintenance or repair.
- Perform routine maintenance, fueling, lubrication, and cleaning of equipment.
- Work safely around existing underground utilities and overhead hazards.
- Coordinate with field supervisors to ensure daily production goals and project schedules are achieved.
- Follow all OSHA, company, and client safety requirements.
- Maintain accurate equipment logs, inspection reports, and daily work records.
- Assist in emergency response activities and utility restoration efforts when required.
- Support other equipment operations as needed to maintain project productivity.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or GED.
- Minimum 3 years of experience operating motor graders or similar heavy equipment.
- Experience working on underground utility, civil construction, maintenance, or infrastructure projects.
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
- Ability to read grade stakes, construction plans, and utility drawings.
- Knowledge of excavation safety and underground utility practices.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Preferred
- Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
- Experience with GPS machine control systems and laser-grade technology.
- Utility construction or underground maintenance experience.
- First Aid/CPR certification.
- Experience operating additional heavy equipment, including excavators, loaders, dozers, rollers, or backhoes.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Proficient operation of motor graders in rough and finish grading applications.
- Knowledge of grade control, drainage requirements, and site development practices.
- Ability to identify underground utility hazards and maintain safe clearance distances.
- Strong understanding of soil compaction, backfill requirements, and restoration techniques.
- Ability to work effectively in changing field conditions.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
- Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, operators, and crew members.
- Basic mechanical knowledge for equipment inspections and minor troubleshooting.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment.
- Frequent climbing on and off heavy equipment.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to work around excavation sites, uneven terrain, moving equipment, and active utility operations.
- Ability to work overtime, weekends, and emergency response assignments when required.
Work Environment
- Underground utility construction and maintenance projects
- Municipal infrastructure projects
- Industrial facilities
- Roadway and site restoration projects
- Active construction sites with exposure to noise, dust, vibration, moving equipment, and changing weather conditions
This role requires compliance with all applicable safety regulations, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, and Loenbro's Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) policies.
Benefits
Loenbro offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and rewards to those who join our team:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Life and disability insurance
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Employee assistance program (EAP)
Benefits eligibility may vary based on employment classification and hours worked.
Guided by Core Values (LEAD), grounded in grit and a commitment to excellence, Loenbro betters our families, customers, and local communities. If you’re ready to be part of a company that LEADS by:
- Living with Integrity
- Exceeding Expectations
- Acting with Urgency
- Delivering Excellence
…we want to hear from you.
Loenbro is an Equal Opportunity Employer
