What are the responsibilities and job description for the Finish Motor Grader Operator position at Schellinger Construction?
Company Summary
For over 60 years, Schellinger Construction has been building highways, roads, and private development projects across Montana. We work primarily in Northwest Montana and provide a full range of services, including earthwork, trucking, gravel crushing, concrete supply, aggregate surfacing, culvert/pipe installation, asphalt paving, and retail aggregate supply (gravel, asphalt). As a family business, we invest in our employees over the long term, providing a bonus program and a complete benefits package including vacation, pension plan, and health insurance.
Key Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the Finish Motor Grader Operator include, but are not limited to:
(Motor Grader GPS-Guided Finish Grading)
- Topcon GPS System Setup & Calibration
- Assemble, mount, and level GPS on Motor Grader.
- Perform daily calibration, verify signal integrity, and troubleshoot satellite connectivity.
- Upload and transfer new models into the Motor Grader GPS.
- A full understanding of the GPS components and basic diagnostics on GPS issues
- Finish Motor Grader Operations
- Execute blade movements to maintain design elevations within specified tolerances (± 0.05 ft or as directed).
- Monitor slope, crossfall, and grade targets on in-cab display; adjust blade pitch accordingly.
- Build Cut/Fill slopes to (± 0.05 ft or as directed).\
- Work with scraper cut/fill operations
- Finish Grade Production
- Follow the 3D model data to grade surfaces to set tolerances.
- Establish smooth transitions between contours; eliminate high/low spots.
- Able to interpret the GPS model and grade to the needed tolerances
- Monitor slope, crossfall, and grade targets on in-cab display; adjust blade pitch accordingly.
- Understand how to use the proper offsets/ hold-downs and polylines for neat line grading.
- Machine Diagnostics & Maintenance
- Conduct pre-shift start-up checks: fluid levels, track tension, sensor mounting.
- Observe onboard diagnostics, report error codes or mechanical Issues to the Field Foreman.
- Understand the wear parts of the Motor Grader and be able to identify when they need to be changed.
- Material Handling
- Load, spread, and cut borrow or fill material as needed to achieve design grade.
- Work with large hauling operations to spread fill materials and keep materials balanced for finish grades.
Additional Responsibilities & Requirements
- Grade Stake & Plan Interpretation
- Read and apply traditional grade stakes/ slope stakes and basic drawings when GPS is offline.
- Communication & Coordination
- Communicate clearly with surveyors, ground personnel, truck drivers, and supervisors via radio or hand signals.
- Relay real-time grade adjustments and equipment needs.
- Work with the on-site mechanic or Shop Foreman to resolve any equipment breakdown issues.
- Perform basic daily maintenance on equipment operated as needed.
- Operate assigned equipment safely and efficiently.
- Minimum 8 year experience.
Safety & Compliance
- Comply with company safety policies, EEO policies, and standard company procedures.
- Wear appropriate protective equipment: steel-toed boots, hard hats, eye protection, and ear protection.
Administration
- Ability to fill out timecard and equipment inspections daily.
General Employment Requirements
- High School Diploma or G.E.D. preferred
- Have a current driver’s license
- Willing to work overtime, as required.
- The work schedule is weather dependent, so flexibility is required.
- Work is performed outdoors, which could include inclement weather, heat and cold, and exposure to dust.
- Must comply with the company’s drug and alcohol testing requirements.
- The successful applicant will be required to join or be a member of the Operating Engineers Union
Compensation and benefits offered with this role will be based on work experience and capability. Schellinger Construction Company is a drug-free and Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Disclaimer:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.
The successful applicant will be required to join or be a member of the Union of Operating Engineers