Motor Grader Operator in Athens, New York at Peckham Industries

Job Summary:

The Motor Grader Operator is responsible for performing fine grading and surface preparation to establish proper base, elevation, and drainage for asphalt paving operations. This role is critical to overall pavement quality, requiring a high level of precision, experience, and the ability to work from grade stakes, plans, or GPS systems to deliver accurate finished grades.

Essential Functions:

1. Results matter. Establish precise grades and elevations to ensure proper base preparation and long-term pavement performance

2. Dedication. Maintain production flow by completing grading work ahead of paving operations and minimizing delays

3. Determined. Deliver smooth, uniform subgrade and base surfaces that meet project tolerances and specifications

4. Safety always wins. Operate grader safely in active construction environments with awareness of utilities, traffic, and crew members

5. Obligated. Shape surfaces to achieve proper slope, crown, and drainage in accordance with site plans and field conditions

6. Committed to serve. Maximize equipment performance through daily inspections and proper operation of grader controls and attachments

7. Respect and engage. Coordinate closely with foremen, survey/layout teams, and paving crews to ensure grade accuracy and readiness

8. Efficiency. Minimize rework by consistently achieving grade within tolerance on the first pass

9. Mastery. Adjust grading techniques based on material conditions, moisture content, and site variables

Requirements, Education and Experience:

1. Demonstrated experience operating motor graders in road construction or paving environments
2. Strong ability to perform fine grading and work to tight tolerances
3. Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, site plans, and/or GPS grade control systems
4. Understanding of drainage principles, slope, and road construction methods
5. Experience working in a fast-paced, production-driven paving environment
6. Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate with crew and layout personnel
7. High level of skill and judgment in equipment operation
8. Mechanical aptitude to identify basic equipment issues and support preventative maintenance
9. High attention to detail and commitment to quality work
10. High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not required
11. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
12. Ability and willingness to work variable shifts, including nights and weekends as needed
13. Authorized to work in the U.S.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Travel:

Position may require up to 100% travel by personal vehicle to project locations throughout the state of New York Massachusetts, and Vermont based on the needs of the business.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

This position works outdoors in various weather conditions on active construction sites. The role requires extended periods of sitting while operating equipment, as well as frequent climbing in and out of machinery.

Work is performed near moving mechanical parts, uneven terrain, and loud equipment. The role requires strong hand-eye coordination, depth perception, and the ability to maintain awareness in a dynamic work environment.

Physical activities may include walking, bending, climbing, and reaching. Occasional lifting of materials up to 25–50 pounds may be required. Employees must be able to communicate effectively in noisy environments and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Values:

At Peckham, you will experience our values wherever you work: corporate offices, plants, quarries, or paving operations. We share a common set of values - safety, integrity, dedication, and efficiency which are embedded in how we show up every day. Ours is a culture where we protect family and friends, our word is our bond, we are committed to serve and results matter. Our values are the foundation of our growth, and we believe will pave the way for future success.