Grader operator

NQ Estimating & Civil Services; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 41,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

NQ Estimating & Civil Services in Cairns, QLD is seeking an experienced Grader Operator for a casual basis. The role involves operating and maintaining grading machinery on civil construction projects to meet earthworks, road surface, and site prep specifications.

The successful candidate will have a current grader operator licence, proven experience, and strong safety awareness. You will work with a small crew on various regional projects around Cairns, with emphasis on reliability and

Qualifications

• Current and valid grader operator licence or equivalent qualification and accreditation.
• Proven experience operating grading machinery in construction or civil engineering environments.
• Sound understanding of health and safety regulations and site safety protocols.
• Ability to interpret site plans, specifications and grade tolerances accurately.

Responsibilities

• Operate grading machinery safely and efficiently across multiple construction and civil works projects.
• Prepare and level ground surfaces to specified grades and tolerances.
• Perform pre-operation inspections and maintenance checks on grading equipment.
• Communicate with site supervisors, project managers and team members regarding site conditions and progress.
• Maintain accurate records of daily operations, hours worked and equipment maintenance.
• Adhere to health and safety regulations and site safety protocols.
• Operate machinery in a manner that minimises environmental impact and complies with company policies.
• Assist with loading, unloading and positioning of equipment on site.

Skills

Grader operation

Licence

Safety compliance

Interpret site plans

Communication

Reliability

Physical fitness

Basic equipment maintenance

Team leadership (lead small crew)

First Aid desirable

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Grader Operator to join NQ Estimating & Civil Services on a casual basis. This is an excellent opportunity to work with a dynamic team in the construction industry, based in Cairns, QLD. As a Grader Operator, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining grading machinery on various civil construction projects, ensuring that earthworks, road surfaces, and site preparations meet the required specifications and quality standards. Your role will be pivotal in delivering projects on time and to specification, contributing directly to the success of our operations.

Key responsibilities

• Operate grading machinery safely and efficiently across multiple construction and civil works projects
• Prepare and level ground surfaces to specified grades and tolerances, ensuring compliance with project plans and specifications
• Perform pre-operation inspections and maintenance checks on grading equipment to ensure safe and reliable operation
• Communicate effectively with site supervisors, project managers and other team members regarding site conditions and project progress
• Maintain accurate records of daily operations, hours worked and machinery maintenance as required
• Adhere to all health and safety regulations and site-specific safety protocols
• Operate machinery in a manner that minimises environmental impact and complies with company policies
• Assist with loading, unloading and positioning of equipment as needed on site

What we're looking for

• Current and valid grader operator licence or equivalent qualification and accreditation
• Proven experience operating grading machinery in construction or civil engineering environments
• Sound understanding of health and safety regulations and site safety protocols
• Ability to interpret site plans, specifications and grade tolerances accurately
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to take direction from supervisors
• Reliability and punctuality, particularly given the casual nature of the role
• Physical fitness and ability to work in outdoor conditions, including in hot and wet weather
• Mechanical aptitude and capability to perform basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
• Experience working in regional or remote construction sites would be advantageous
• Current First Aid certification is desirable
• Final trim experience advantageous
• Must be able to lead a small crew

What we offer

At NQ Estimating & Civil Services, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive and professional working environment. As a casual employee, you will benefit from competitive rates of pay, flexibility in scheduling, and the opportunity to work on diverse and interesting projects throughout the Cairns region. We invest in our team members' professional development and provide comprehensive induction and training to ensure you have the support needed to succeed in your role. We maintain a strong commitment to health and safety, and all employees are supported in following safe work practices.

About us

NQ Estimating & Civil Services is a construction and civil services company based in Cairns, dedicated to delivering high-quality projects for clients throughout North Queensland. With a reputation for professionalism, reliability and expertise, we specialise in civil engineering and construction works that support the development of the region. Our team is committed to maintaining the highest standards of workmanship, safety and customer satisfaction. We pride ourselves on creating a positive workplace culture where every team member is valued and supported.