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Asphalt Paving Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baldwin Paving

Asphalt Paver Operator

Marietta, GA · On-site

Summary The Asphalt Paving Machine Operators primary function is to operate the asphalt paving machine to achieve overall ride quality and appearance. Essential functions: * Perform daily maintenance ...

Kerr Contractors

Asphalt Paver Operator

Woodburn, OR · On-site

Operate asphalt paving machines and other related equipment in a safe and appropriate manner ... Must have 3 to 5 years experience operating CAT, Vogle and/or other asphalt paving machines

BRW Contracting

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Asphalt Screw Operator

Land O Lakes, FL · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

We are currently seeking an experienced Paving Machine Screw Man to join our asphalt division ... Work closely with the paving operator and crew to ensure smooth and consistent asphalt placement

BRW Contracting

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Asphalt Screw Operator

Land O Lakes, FL · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

We are currently seeking an experienced Paving Machine Screw Man to join our asphalt division ... Work closely with the paving operator and crew to ensure smooth and consistent asphalt placement

Rose Paving

Asphalt Paving Operator

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

Rose Paving is looking for an Asphalt Paving Operator Who we are Rose Paving LLC, leads the ... This role is responsible for the efficient operation of various machinery, ensuring that all ...

Gray & Son, Inc.

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Paving Operators (Paver, Screed, Roller, Milling)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

... Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the asphalt paver. This position operates paving machines to spread and level hot mix paving material on subgrade of highways and ...

Rose Paving

Asphalt Paving Operator

Fort Myers, FL

Rose Paving is looking for an Asphalt Paving Operator Who we are Rose Paving LLC, leads the ... This role is responsible for the efficient operation of various machinery, ensuring that all ...

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Asphalt Paving Machine Operator information

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

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for asphalt paving machine operator in the United States is $26.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, aerospace manufacturing, or heavy equipment operation, with roles like crane or industrial equipment operators earning higher wages. Certifications, experience, and operating complex machinery can significantly increase earning potential in these fields.

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.

Do pavers make good money?

Asphalt paving machine operators typically earn a median annual salary that is above the national average for construction workers, with wages varying based on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators who work in high-demand areas or with specialized equipment can earn higher wages, and overtime opportunities may increase overall earnings.

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.

Do you need a license to operate a paver?

In most regions, asphalt paving machine operators are required to have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or specialized certification to operate pavers legally. Employers often provide training on equipment operation and safety protocols, and some areas may have specific licensing or certification requirements for heavy machinery operators.

How much does an asphalt paver operator make?

An asphalt paver operator typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union status. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in large projects may earn higher wages and overtime pay. The job often requires knowledge of paving equipment and safety protocols.
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Asphalt Paving Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Asphalt Paving Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,816 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

REEVES | Asphalt Paving Machine Operator - Columbia, SC

Colas

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Reeves Construction Company, the Colas USA subsidiary that operates throughout the states North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, has been a key partner in the infrastructure growth of the Southeast since the company’s founding in 1955. Reeves is a complete heavy civil highway and site development construction company dedicated to meet the specific needs of the roadway, airport, bridge, and military market. Reeves prides itself for its high company standards of safety, ethics, and performance. To learn more about Reeves visit www.reevescc.com. 
Throughout Colas USA, we provide competitive pay, outstanding benefits, career advancement opportunities, professional education, and extensive training for every employee. We pride ourselves on upholding the highest standards of safety, environmental conservation, and ethical conduct as we strive to grow our infrastructure products and services through empowering and developing our people, fostering innovation, utilizing new technology, and maximizing vertical integration at all levels of the company’s value chain. To learn more about the Colas USA Family of Companies, please visit www.colasusa.com. 
Reeves, and the rest of the Colas USA Family of Companies, is part of the Colas Group, the worldwide leader in transportation infrastructure construction and maintenance. For information on our international network visit www.colas.com. 

Mission

Reeves Construction Company is currently seeking an individual for the position of Asphalt Paving Machine Operator based out of Columbia, SC. The successful candidate for this role will have an uncompromising focus on safety excellence. The Asphalt Paving Machine Operator must perform daily maintenance checks and report any mechanical or safety issues to a supervisor. 

Responsibilities

This includes, but is not limited to the following:

  • The ability to operate a paver
  • An accurate and working knowledge of a paver (ex. correct speed, check on material coming out of truck, straight lines)
  • The ability to take a leadership role on the crew
  • The willingness and ability to keep paver maintained and clean
  • The willingness to work nights and weekends
  • The ability to operate equipment in a safe and consistent manner
Job Requirements
  • 6 months to 1 year of experience
  • Experience working in and around construction equipment
  • Driving License (preferred)
Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop; kneel; crouch or walk; talk or hear, and taste or smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Employee must have 20/40 vision, either naturally or with corrective lenses. Hearing should be excellent or corrected by audio device.

Work Environment


The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential function of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts, outside weather conditions, and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and toxic or caustic chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud.
 

Benefits & Compensation


 

Competitive pay & comprehensive benefits include paid holidays, vacation, life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, group health plan options (incl. medical, dental & vision, HSA, FSA), short term disability benefits & 401(k)/401(k) Roth w/company match.


**This Organization Participates in E-Verify**
**Drug-Free Workplace**

Colas Inc. and its subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity Employer. For details on the specifics of this commitment, please click here to view the EEO document.  If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to:

  • to meet the requirements of the role in which you are applying
  • complete any part of the application process
  • access or use the online application process and need an alternative method for applying
     

Please contact Colas Inc. at 973-290-9082 or send an email to ColasRecruiter@colasinc.com. 

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