Apprentice Motorgrader Operator

George Nice & Sons; Toano (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid hands-on training

Mentorship

Competitive wages

Advancement opportunities

Benefits package

Long-term career opportunities

Job summary

George Nice & Sons in Virginia is seeking motivated individuals to join our Apprenticeship for Motor Grader Operators. This entry-level program provides hands-on training and mentorship to learn how to safely operate motor graders and other heavy equipment on construction sites.

As an apprentice, you will perform basic equipment checks, follow project specifications, and work as part of a crew under supervision.

Qualifications

• Education requirement is a high school diploma or GED.
• No prior motor grader experience is required; construction or equipment experience is a plus.
• Strong interest in heavy equipment operation.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate motorgraders, loaders, excavators and bulldozers under supervision
• Perform basic equipment checks, maintenance, and cleaning
• Understand and follow grade stakes, site plans, and project specifications
• Maintain proper slope, drainage, and surface alignment as directed
• Follow all safety policies and procedures on job sites
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, crew members, and surveyors
• Support general labor tasks when not operating equipment

Skills

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Ability to follow instructions

Willingness to obtain CDL

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Summary

George Nice & Sons is seeking motivated individuals to join our team in the Apprenticeship for Motor Grader Operators. This entry-level role is part of our Apprenticeship Program and is designed for individuals interested in learning how to operate heavy equipment in the construction industry. Apprentices will receive hands‑on training and mentorship to develop the skills needed to safely and effectively operate a motor grader as well as other pieces of heavy equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Learn to operate motorgraders, loaders, excavators and bulldozers under supervision
• Perform basic equipment checks, maintenance, and cleaning
• Understand and follow grade stakes, site plans, and project specifications
• Maintain proper slope, drainage, and surface alignment as directed
• Follow all safety policies and procedures on job sites
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, crew members, and surveyors
• Support general labor tasks when not operating equipment

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• No prior motor grader experience required; construction or equipment experience is a plus
• Strong interest in heavy equipment operation
• Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team
• Valid driver’s license required (CDL a plus or willingness to obtain)
• Reliable transportation to job sites
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including climbing in and out of equipment

Skills & Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
• Good hand‑eye coordination and spatial awareness
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Dependability and commitment to safety
• Interest in long-term career growth in heavy equipment operation

What We Offer

• Paid, hands‑on training through our Apprenticeship Program
• Mentorship from experienced heavy equipment operators
• Competitive starting wages with increases based on skill progression
• Opportunities to advance into a full Motor Grader Operator role
• Benefits package (health, retirement, paid time off, etc.)
• Stable, long-term career opportunities

REQUIRES A COMMITMENT OF 6000 HOURS