Land Grading and Drainage Contractor
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Review site plans and mark grading limits and target elevations
- Clear and prepare the work area for earthmoving
- Cut and fill soil to achieve required slopes and compaction
- Install surface drainage features such as swales and ditches
- Install subsurface drainage systems such as pipes and catch basins
- Coordinate with survey crews to confirm elevations and layout
- Select equipment and plan efficient haul and staging routes
- Manage erosion and sediment controls to meet local rules
- Inspect work quality and correct low spots, ponding, and soft areas
- Estimate labor, materials, and equipment needs for bids
- Maintain equipment and schedule repairs to reduce downtime
- Lead jobsite safety practices and daily crew coordination
- Communicate progress and changes with clients and project managers
- Document completed work and track costs against the budget
Top Skills for Success
Site Plan Reading
Grade Checking
Equipment Operation
Earthwork Estimating
Drainage Installation
Soil Compaction Knowledge
Erosion Control Practices
Jobsite Safety
Crew Leadership
Scheduling
Client Communication
Cost Tracking
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Equipment Operator
Grade Checker
Laborer
Drainage Technician
Transition Opportunities
Foreman
Site Superintendent
Project Manager
Estimator
Construction Business Owner
Civil Construction Manager
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Survey BasicsStormwater Regulation AwarenessBid WritingJob CostingContract ManagementErosion Control InstallationUtility Locating PracticesQuality Control Documentation
Development SuggestionsBuild confidence by shadowing a survey crew for layout and elevation checks, taking a short course on local stormwater requirements, and using simple templates for bids and job costing. Add repeatable field checklists for drainage performance, compaction targets, and erosion controls to reduce rework.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry Level45,000 to 65,000 USD
Mid Level65,000 to 95,000 USD
Senior Level95,000 to 140,000 USD
Growth Trend
Steady demand, supported by housing construction, road and utility work, and increased focus on stormwater management and flood resilience. Demand can vary by season and local building activity.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
KiewitGranite ConstructionSkanska USAFlatiron ConstructionPCL ConstructionThe Walsh GroupLennarD. R. Horton
Industry Sectors
Residential ConstructionCommercial ConstructionRoad and Highway ConstructionUtility ConstructionLand DevelopmentMunicipal Stormwater ProjectsAgricultural Land ImprovementRenewable Energy Site Preparation
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a portfolio of before and after photos with measured elevations and drainage outcomes2
Learn one grade checking tool deeply and practice daily elevation verification3
Standardize estimating with a unit rate sheet for excavation, hauling, and drainage materials4
Earn a safety credential commonly requested by local contractors5
Build relationships with surveyors, utility locators, and inspection staff to reduce delays6
Track job costs weekly and review variance to improve future bids7
Develop a maintenance plan for key machines to reduce downtime8
Stay current on local drainage and erosion control requirements and update your standard details