Grading Crew Supervisor

Department: Earthwork & Infrastructure

Reports To: VP of Earthworks and Infrastructure

Location: Various project sites across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Montana

Status: Hourly (Non-Exempt)

Position Summary

The Grading Crew Supervisor oversees day-to-day field operations of the grading crew to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality completion of earthwork and grading activities on highway, roadway, and civil infrastructure projects. This role provides hands-on leadership, technical expertise, and coordination between field personnel, equipment operators, truck drivers, and site management to maintain production goals, safety standards, and compliance with project specifications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Directs and supervises grading crew activities including excavation, embankment, fine grading, and subgrade preparation.
• Interprets project plans, blueprints, and survey stakes; verifies grade accuracy and alignment with project requirements.
• Coordinates with project manager, surveyors, and truck dispatch to ensure timely material movement and balanced site logistics.
• Plans daily work assignments, equipment needs, and crew staffing to meet schedule targets and productivity goals.
• Conducts weekly jobsite safety meetings and enforces all company and OSHA safety protocols.
• Trains and mentors operators and laborers on proper grading techniques, equipment operation, and quality standards.
• Monitors and adjusts work progress to ensure proper drainage, slopes, compaction, and tolerances.
• Inspects work zones regularly for quality control, erosion control, and environmental compliance.
• Maintains accurate daily reports, including quantities, equipment hours, and labor tracking.
• Communicates effectively with project management and field teams to identify and resolve operational issues.
• Coordinates with subcontractors, utility locators, and trucking operations to maintain safe and efficient workflow.
• Ensures all equipment is operated and maintained in accordance with company standards and manufacturer recommendations.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of heavy civil or highway grading experience
• 1-2 years in a leadership or supervisory role preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required; CDL preferred. An acceptable driving record is required.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety regulations.
• Strong working knowledge of earthmoving, soil stabilization, and grading operations.

Competencies & Skills

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and grade stakes.
• Proficiency in slope control and GPS/laser-guided equipment systems preferred.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and efficiency in all field operations.
• Ability to operate various heavy equipment (dozer, motor grader, excavator, scraper, etc.) as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 50+ lbs regularly and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Frequent bending, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and standing.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, dust, noise).
• Tolerance for long hours and extended periods of standing and walking on uneven terrain.

Work Environment

• Field-based construction sites with exposure to heavy equipment, traffic, and changing conditions.
• Seasonal overtime and extended hours during peak construction.
• Requires travel to multiple job sites; may involve overnight stays during construction season.

Position Type & Expected Hours

• Full-time, seasonal.
• Typical schedule: Project dependent, 70+ hours per week during construction season.

Compensation and Benefits

• Performance-based bonus structure
• Company vehicle
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• HSA with employee contribution
• 401(k) with employer match and profit sharing
• Company paid basic life insurance
• Per diem

Central Specialties is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.