Gradeperson - Pipe and Grade Specialist

Civil Construction Gradesperson (Pipe & Grade Specialist)

Passionate about your career and ready for new challenges? Join Norland and grow with us!

The Civil Construction Gradesperson is primarily responsible for shooting pipe and controlling elevations for underground utility installation. This role ensures that all pipe (storm, sanitary, water) is installed to correct line, grade, and slope, meeting design specifications and inspection requirements. The Gradesperson plays a critical role in preventing rework, ensuring flow performance, and maintaining project quality.

• Shoot pipe elevations using laser levels, transits, or GPS equipment
• Establish and maintain invert elevations and slopes for:
  • Storm sewer
  • Sanitary sewer
  • Water mains
• Direct excavator operators during trenching to achieve proper grade
• Continuously check pipe placement to ensure:
  • Correct slope (fall)
  • Alignment
  • Joint elevation accuracy
• Set and verify grade hubs, offset stakes, and benchmarks
• Ensure trench bottom and bedding meet design elevations before pipe installation
• Monitor and adjust grades throughout installation to avoid low/high spots

• Interpret civil drawings, profiles, and pipe schedules
• Work closely with:
  • Pipe crews
  • Foremen
  • Surveyors
  • Equipment operators
• Check grades for:
  • Excavation and backfill
  • Road subgrade and base
  • Structures (manholes, catch basins)
• Maintain grade stakes and layout control points
• Identify and report discrepancies in plans or site conditions
• Keep accurate field notes and measurements

• 5+ years’ experience as a Grades person with pipe-laying experience
• Strong understanding of:
  • Pipe installation practices
  • Invert calculations and slope (e.g., % grade)
• Experience using:
  • Laser levels (pipe lasers preferred)
  • Optical/transit levels
  • GPS systems (asset)
• Ability to read and interpret:
  • Pipe profiles and sections
  • Elevation drawings and cut sheets
• Strong math skills (grade, slope, elevations)

• High precision and attention to detail (critical for flow systems)
• Strong communication with operators and pipe crew
• Ability to work in trench environments and active excavations
• Problem‑solving when site conditions differ from plans
• Ability to work under pressure with tight tolerances

• Outdoor construction sites and trench work
• Exposure to deep excavations and underground environments
• Physically demanding (walking, climbing in/out of trenches)
• Variable weather conditions and extended hours

• Follow trench safety and shoring requirements
• Maintain safe distances from excavation edges and equipment
• Participate in hazard assessments and daily tailgate meetings
• Ensure safe entry/exit practices in trenches
• Report unsafe conditions immediately

• Experience with pipe lasers and trenching operations
• Surveying or layout experience
• CSTS, WHMIS, Confined Space, Ground Disturbance Level II
• Valid driver’s license as you will be operating company vehicles

This is a Unionized position with Norland - CSW 1611. The position will earn Union wages and will have access to extended Union healthcare and benefits, a Union-sponsored pension plan, and additional training through the Training Plan. Expected hourly rate:
Unionized wage range for this position is $44.21 - $45.21 per hour (based on candidate’s experience), plus 10% vacation/statutory holiday pay.

Enjoy a competitive total rewards package that includes not only a base salary but also comprehensive benefits and other perks.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that values diversity and promotes equity. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those from underrepresented groups.