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Chip Spreader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... grades; operating chip spreader; forming bridges and berms; and performing preventive maintenance and minor repairs on heavy equipment. Performs a variety of semi-skilled road maintenance and ...

... chip spreader. Education, Experience, and Licensing Heavy Equipment Operators may advance or be placed within their positions by work experience, apprenticeship, or by certification. The table below ...

The Distributor Operator position consists of operating an asphalt distributor by applying specialized emulsions to roadways, which are then covered by a chip spreader. The operator is responsible ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$57K - $66K/yr

... chip spreader, unimog, grader, paver, dozer (D8), and transport semi-truck. Essential Job Functions Operates light to heavy duty equipment in all phases of construction, maintenance or repair of ...

... chip spreader, unimog, grader, paver, dozer (D8), and transport semi-truck. Essential Job Functions Operates light to heavy duty equipment in all phases of construction, maintenance or repair of ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$57K - $66K/yr

... chip spreader, unimog, grader, paver, dozer (D8), and transport semi-truck. Essential Job Functions * Operates light to heavy duty equipment in all phases of construction, maintenance or repair of ...

Operates chip spreader; forming bridges and beams. Performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs on heavy equipment. Moves, loads, and hauls materials and debris. Installs traffic control signs.

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Chip Spreader Operator information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do chip spreader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for chip spreader operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include specialized roles such as high-level contractors, certain construction managers, or skilled trades like chip spreader operators working on large infrastructure projects. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, and sometimes long or irregular hours. Such high daily earnings are usually associated with freelance, consulting, or project-based work in industries like construction, engineering, or consulting services.

What is the difference between Chip Spreader Operator vs Asphalt Paving Machine Operator?

AspectChip Spreader OperatorAsphalt Paving Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, CDL often preferredHigh school diploma, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor construction sites, roadworkOutdoor construction sites, road paving
Industry UsageRoad construction, highway maintenanceRoad construction, highway paving
Common Search IntentJob duties, certifications, salaryJob duties, certifications, salary

The Chip Spreader Operator and Asphalt Paving Machine Operator roles both work in road construction and require similar credentials. The main difference lies in their specific tasks: the Chip Spreader Operator focuses on distributing aggregate chips, while the Asphalt Paving Machine Operator handles asphalt laying. Both roles are essential for highway projects and share similar work environments and industry usage.

What jobs will boom in 2026?

Jobs related to infrastructure, construction, and transportation, including roles like chip spreader operators, are expected to grow due to ongoing infrastructure development and maintenance projects. Skills in equipment operation, safety protocols, and certification requirements will be valuable in these expanding fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chip Spreader Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chip Spreader Operator, you need experience in road construction, strong mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with operating heavy machinery, understanding of safety regulations, and sometimes a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient operations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing quality road surfaces, maintaining safety, and minimizing costly mistakes on the job site.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator?

Among heavy equipment operators, crane operators and tunnel boring machine operators tend to have the highest salaries due to the specialized skills and certifications required. These roles often command higher wages, especially with experience and in certain industries like construction and infrastructure projects.

What does a Chip Spreader Operator do?

A Chip Spreader Operator operates equipment that distributes stone chips or gravel onto road surfaces during the construction or maintenance of highways. They work as part of a paving crew, ensuring that the aggregate is spread evenly and at the proper rate to create a durable road surface. Their responsibilities also include maintaining the chip spreader, following safety protocols, and coordinating with other crew members to ensure efficient workflow. The role requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

What are some common challenges Chip Spreader Operators face on the job?

Chip Spreader Operators often work in fast-paced environments where precision and timing are critical. A common challenge is coordinating efficiently with the paving crew and truck drivers to ensure even distribution of aggregate, especially under tight deadlines or changing weather conditions. Operators must also be vigilant about equipment maintenance, as breakdowns can cause costly delays. Success in the role requires adaptability, strong communication skills, and attention to safety protocols on active job sites.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Chip Spreader Operator can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month with experience, especially in high-demand construction or infrastructure projects. Such roles often require specialized skills, physical work, and sometimes certifications, but they typically do not require a college degree. High-paying jobs in trades, transportation, or skilled labor can also reach this income level without a degree.
Infographic showing various Chip Spreader Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Chipseal Spreader Operator

Chipseal Spreader Operator

Knife River Corporation

Boise, ID • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Knife River rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

187th of 520 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary:
We have an excellent opportunity for Chip Seal Spreader Operators in our Idaho Division located in the Boise area!
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
-Person shall demonstrate the ability to safely and productively perform chip seal operations using roller equipment
-Person shall communicate as well as listen effectively
-Persons shall be able to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with all personnel and to perform all duties safely and productively to ensure quality work
-Operators shall have the ability to conduct daily equipment inspections to identify any safety and maintenance issues
-Job requires steady to intermittent and repetitive physical activity including: standing, stooping, kneeling, climbing, walking on uneven ground, lifting, carrying, pushing, shoveling, and raking
Great benefit package after 60 days that includes medical, vision, dental, 401K and more.
Women, minorities and veterans are encouraged to apply
Minimum Qualifications:
-One year or more experience operating roller equipment
-Has knowledge of the aspects of chip seal operations
-A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred
-Valid drivers license
-Must be able to work day shifts and night shifts. Shifts may vary according to project demands
-Must be able to work in all weather conditions
-Must be willing to travel if job requires it
-Must pass a pre-employment drug screen
Additional Information
How To Apply
You may apply online at http://jobs.kniferiver.com
If unable to apply online, mail completed application to:
5450 W. Gowen Road
Boise, ID 83709
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks.
Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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