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Asphalt Paving Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Oak Park

Equipment Operator

Oak Park, IL

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

... asphalt, jack-hammering, flushing streets, flushing and televising main sewers, cleaning catch ... Operation and maintenance requirements of power-driven equipment for pavement maintenance.

Diamond Coring

JOINT SEALING TECHNICIAN

Chicago, IL · On-site

Spreads salt, sand, gravel, and asphalt. * Fills pavement cracks and joints. * Walk at fast pace ... Operator / GPR Scanning / GPR Concrete Scanning / Ground Penetrating Radar Scanning

Diamond Companies

JOINT SEALING TECHNICIAN

Chicago, IL · On-site

Spreads salt, sand, gravel, and asphalt.Fills pavement cracks and joints.Walk at fast pace ... Operator / GPR Scanning / GPR Concrete Scanning / Ground Penetrating Radar Scanning Job Posted by ...

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All JobsAsphalt Paving Machine Operator JobsAsphalt Paving Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Asphalt Paving Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$27

$41

How much do asphalt paving machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for asphalt paving machine operator in Chicago, IL is $27.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $33.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an asphalt paving machine operator?

The responsibilities of an asphalt paving machine operator include performing a variety of manual labor tasks on construction projects; this includes the operation, cleaning, and maintenance of a paver and other equipment. You are responsible for inspecting machinery before operating and alerting your supervisor of any repair needs. Other duties include understanding and planning the grade cross slope requirements using manual and automatic settings, placing material in front of the screed, setting the flow, and operating the equipment in a straight line while moving at the correct speed based on truck material delivery. You perform these duties while paving highways, roads, and other surfaces that require asphalt paving.

What does an asphalt paving machine operator do?

An Asphalt Paving Machine Operator is responsible for operating equipment that lays asphalt on roads, parking lots, and other surfaces. Their duties include controlling paving machines to distribute, level, and smooth asphalt according to project specifications. They work closely with other crew members to ensure that the pavement is properly applied and meets safety and quality standards. Operators also perform routine maintenance on their machines and monitor the paving process to prevent any defects or irregularities. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical skills, and a focus on safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an asphalt paving machine operator, and why are they important?

To excel as an Asphalt Paving Machine Operator, a solid understanding of road construction techniques, equipment operation, and safety procedures is essential, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Operators typically use paving machines, rollers, and may require OSHA safety certification or specialized equipment training. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills due to the collaborative and precision-driven nature of the work. These qualifications ensure quality pavement, operational safety, and efficient project completion in demanding outdoor environments.

What are some common challenges asphalt paving machine operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Asphalt Paving Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining precise control over heavy machinery, and ensuring the quality and uniformity of the pavement. Managing these challenges involves staying vigilant about equipment maintenance, closely following safety protocols, and communicating effectively with the crew to coordinate adjustments on the fly. Adaptability and attention to detail are essential traits, as operators must frequently respond to unexpected issues like material inconsistencies or changes in project specifications.

What is the difference between Asphalt Paving Machine Operator vs Asphalt Raker?

AspectAsphalt Paving Machine OperatorAsphalt Raker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA certifications, equipment operation trainingHigh school diploma, basic construction safety training
Work EnvironmentOperates paving machines on construction sites, outdoorsManually spreads asphalt, outdoors on roadways or driveways
Job RoleControls paving machines to lay asphalt evenlyManually spreads and levels asphalt by hand

While both roles work on asphalt paving projects, the Asphalt Paving Machine Operator primarily operates machinery to lay asphalt, requiring specialized equipment training. The Asphalt Raker manually spreads asphalt and assists in leveling surfaces. Both roles are essential in paving projects but differ in responsibilities, equipment use, and skill requirements.

How much do asphalt paving machine operators make?

Asphalt paving machine operators typically earn an average annual salary between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in large projects may earn higher wages and overtime pay due to the physically demanding work environment and the need for precision in operating paving equipment.
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Asphalt Paving Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Asphalt Paving Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,468 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

CONCRETE/ASPHALT SAWING and/or DRILLING MACHINE OPERATOR

Chicago, IL

Diamond Coring
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Diamond Coringexternal

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Concrete/Asphalt Sawing and/or Drilling Machine Operator

The Concrete/Asphalt Sawing and Drilling Machine Operator will be responsible for operating specialized equipment to cut, saw, core drill, or demolish concrete and asphalt according to project plans and safety protocols within the concrete pavement restoration industry. This role will be based out of our Chicago, IL 60617 location.

Responsibilities include but not limited to

  • Operate walk-behind concrete saws to create clean, precise expansion/control joint cuts on pavements (roadways, runways, etc.).
  • Position and lower saw or drill over marked cutting or drilling mark.
  • Starts motor and begins cutting or drilling operation.
  • Cut out damaged concrete, drill for reinforcing rods, and position rods for concrete repair.
  • Keep equipment and work areas clean and hazard-free.
  • Follow all safety protocols and worksite regulations.
  • Perform other duties as needed.
  • Guides saw along a line, using handle bars attached to saws.
  • Observes pressure gauge to maintain specified pressure on drill bit with crank.
  • Locates and marks cutting or drilling position, using rule and chalk.
  • Attaches diamond edged circular blade or diamond tipped core drill to equipment, using hand tools.
  • Assembles components of drilling equipment and connects water hose to supply coolant to cutting blade or drill, using hand tools.
  • Lubricates equipment, changes worn cutting blades and core drills, and makes minor repairs, using grease gun and hand tools.

Qualifications

  • 2+ years of cutting/sawing experience in the concrete pavement restoration and road construction is preferred.
  • Industry relevant certifications and training preferred.
  • The ability to travel is a must!
  • Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions and work independently.
  • Strong knowledge of saw equipment, blade types, and safety practices.
  • Have proficiency in mobile software applications.
  • Have knowledge of materials, methods, and the appropriate tools to construct objects, structures, and buildings.
  • Train others to perform at acceptable levels on relevant tasks.

Benefits

Competitive pay and excellent benefits are part of our culture of celebrating & appreciating our people.

  • Our Top Priority is Safety - Safe Working Environment
  • Long Term, Full-Time Career Growth Opportunity
  • Ongoing Safety Training and Certifications
  • Union Benefits & Wages
  • Safety Incentives

Diamond Coring Co Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages qualified females, minorities, veterans and disabled persons to apply in person or careers@diamondcoring.com.

This job description is not intended to be misconstrued as an all-inclusive list of the responsibilities, skills and working conditions associated with this position. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position, activities, and requirements...management reserves the right to modify and assign other duties as necessary.

Concrete Cutting / Concrete Cut / Concrete Cutter / Concrete Saw / Concrete Sawing / Concrete Core Drilling / Core Drilling / Wall Saw / Wire Saw / Flat Saw / Slab Saw / Wall Sawing / Flat Sawing / Concrete Sawing / Cutting Concrete / Concrete Operator / GPR Scanning / GPR Concrete Scanning / Ground Penetrating Radar Scanning

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