Fine Grade Operator

Thalle Construction Company Co., Inc. (Thalle) is excited to announce an open opportunity to expand our team! Thalle is currently seeking an experienced and motivated candidate to fill a Fine Grade Operator position at our project located in Clayton, NC. Thalle, established in 1947, is a heavy civil construction company with a corporate office located in Hillsborough, NC and a regional office in Alvarado, Texas.

Thalle currently has active heavy civil construction projects spanning from New York to South Florida to Texas and continuing to expand our geographical footprint. Our diverse and expansive project scope of heavy civil infrastructure projects incorporates all degrees of civil construction that includes but is not limited to conventional concrete, roller compacted concrete and earthen dams, navigational waterway locks, reservoirs, large diameter underground utilities, treatment facilities, landfills, site work, mass soil & rock excavation, coal ash closures, DOT highway & bridge construction, and on‑demand emergency services, etc.

Safety is our top priority! 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 401(k) with a company match, and more! Compensation is based on experience and qualifications.

Thalle is an Equal Opportunity Employer, E‑Verify and Drug Free Workplace.

Job Title:

Fine Grade Operator

A Fine Grade Operator is responsible for producing precise finished grades for foundations, utilities, roadways, slabs, and site improvements. The operator works closely with survey crews, grade foremen, and superintendents to ensure all elevations and slopes meet project specifications.

• 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.
• Assist with rough grading when required while prioritizing finish work.

Operate and maintain equipment such as:

• Motor grader
• Dozer
• Excavator
• Skid steer
• Compact track loader
• Vibratory roller (as needed)

• Utilize GPS machine control systems (Trimble, Topcon, Leica, etc.).
• Understand cut/fill displays and design surfaces.
• Verify benchmarks and control points before beginning work.
• Work directly with survey personnel to resolve discrepancies.
• Report any conflicts between plans and field conditions.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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…