Gradeperson - Pipe and Grade Specialist

Job summary

Responsible for shooting pipe elevations and controlling grades for underground utility installations to ensure correct line and slope. The role involves directing excavator operators and verifying that trench bottoms and bedding meet design specifications.

Job details

Civil Construction Gradesperson (Pipe & Grade Specialist) Passionate about your career and ready for new challenges? Join Norland and grow with us! BEL Contracting has excelled in civil contracting across Western Canada, focusing on underground utility and road construction. Our expertise spans transportation and infrastructure projects for provincial, municipal, and private clients, ensuring quality through safety, efficiency, and budget adherence. We offer tailored construction solutions, including planning, grading, excavating, culvert and utility installations. 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. Primary Responsibility – Pipe Grade Control Shoot pipe elevations using laser levels, transits, or GPS equipment Establish and maintain invert elevations and slopes for: Storm sewer Sanitary sewer Watermains 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 General Responsibilities 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 Qualifications 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) Skills & Competencies 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 Working Conditions 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 Safety Responsibilities 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 Must Haves 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 Compensation This is a Unionized position with Norland - CSW 1611 . This 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. Here’s why you will want to be part of our team: Enjoy a competitive total rewards package that includes not only a base salary but also comprehensive benefits, and other perks. Be part of a supportive and collaborative team culture where ideas are valued, and teamwork is encouraged, fostering an environment of mutual respect and shared success. We are a values-driven organization. Our values define how we work together, and how we partner with our clients. We invite you to learn more about our values here . We are All Leaders We Do What We Say We are Open and Transparent We Win Together Safety is at the heart of everything that we do, and we promote a culture that ensures everyone has the mindset and the tools to work safely. All Norland positions include a commitment to comply with Norland’s Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) program responsibilities and applicable legislation. About Us Norland Limited consists of specialized businesses working together as one team towards common goals. Our businesses have delivered work Built to Last for over 80 years! We are a trusted leader in integrated construction — connecting and enriching communities through our innovative approach. Our mission is to build lasting partnerships through unparalleled execution and leveraging our self-perform expertise. We offer a dynamic and supportive environment where your skills will thrive, and your contributions will make a real difference in our community-focused projects. Ready to make a difference? Join us as we shape the future of construction with integrity, excellence, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact! You can visit our website to learn more about us. 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. Thank you for your interest in joining our team. Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. SCAM ALERT: Please be vigilant of recruitment scams, falsely posing as Norland. We never ask for payment during the hiring process. The hiring process will always include direct communication from Norland only from email addresses ending in @ norlandlimited.com and will never be completely conducted via chat or social media platforms. The best way to verify real career opportunities is to review postings on Norland’s career page and apply directly through Norland’s website.

What you’ll do

Responsible for shooting pipe elevations and controlling grades for underground utility installations to ensure correct line and slope. The role involves directing excavator operators and verifying that trench bottoms and bedding meet design specifications.

Requirements

Requires over 5 years of experience as a Gradesperson with expertise in pipe-laying and the use of laser levels and GPS systems. Must possess a valid driver's license and certifications including CSTS, WHMIS, Confined Space, and Ground Disturbance Level II.

Benefits

• Extended Union Healthcare • Union-sponsored Pension Plan • Additional Training • Vacation Pay • Statutory Holiday Pay

Listed skills

• Problem solving · Preferred
• Communication · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Pipe Grade Control
• Laser Levels
• GPS Systems
• Invert Calculations
• Reading Civil Drawings
• Slope Calculation
• Trench Safety
• Surveying
• Layout Control
• Precision Measurement
• Communication
• Problem Solving

Job areas

• Construction
• Trades
• Engineering