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Highway Construction Jobs in Rantoul, IL (NOW HIRING)

Safety Director

Urbana, IL · On-site

$117 - $143/hr

... highway construction sitesAbility to travelParticipate in safety briefings, job briefings, and other meetings - pass on information from team members, management or customerMust be able to work with ...

Construction Employee

Champaign, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY: Installs posters and bulletins as well as performs maintenance as required to the physical structure and surrounding property. In addition, performs work on all Digital Assets as ...

Construction Employee

Champaign, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY: Installs posters and bulletins as well as performs maintenance as required to the physical structure and surrounding property. In addition, performs work on all Digital Assets as ...

Highway Construction information

See Rantoul, IL salary details

$32.5K

$73.6K

$123.9K

How much do highway construction jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for highway construction in Rantoul, IL is $73,587.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $113,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a highway construction worker do?

A highway construction worker is responsible for building, repairing, and maintaining roads, highways, and related infrastructure. Their tasks often include operating heavy machinery, laying asphalt or concrete, setting up traffic control devices, and ensuring worksite safety. They may also assist with tasks like surveying, grading, and installing drainage systems. This work is typically outdoors and can involve physically demanding labor in various weather conditions. Highway construction workers play a crucial role in maintaining safe and efficient transportation networks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in highway construction, and why are they important?

To thrive in Highway Construction, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, construction methods, and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant trade certifications. Familiarity with heavy machinery, construction management software, and safety compliance systems like OSHA is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you coordinate with crews and adapt to changing site conditions. These skills ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to quality standards, minimizing risks and delays.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in highway construction projects?

Professionals in highway construction often encounter challenges such as managing tight project deadlines, coordinating with various subcontractors, and adapting to changing weather conditions that can affect timelines and safety. Navigating complex regulatory requirements and ensuring all work meets safety and quality standards are also key aspects of the role. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with engineers, inspectors, and local authorities are essential to keep projects on track and minimize disruptions to the public.

What is the difference between Highway Construction vs Road Maintenance Worker?

AspectHighway ConstructionRoad Maintenance Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may require certifications in heavy equipment operationHigh school diploma; certifications in equipment operation are common
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, often in variable weather conditionsRoadside, outdoor, regular outdoor conditions, sometimes in adverse weather
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, government agencies, infrastructure projectsMunicipalities, state agencies, maintenance contractors

Highway Construction involves building new roads, bridges, and infrastructure, requiring specialized skills and equipment operation. Road Maintenance Workers focus on repairing and maintaining existing roads, often performing routine inspections and repairs. Both roles are essential for transportation infrastructure but differ mainly in scope and project type.

How do I get into highway construction?

To get into highway construction, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue relevant training or apprenticeships. Workers often learn on the job, and certifications in equipment operation or safety can improve job prospects; physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also important.

What cities near Rantoul, IL are hiring for Highway Construction jobs?

Cities near Rantoul, IL with the most Highway Construction job openings:

Infographic showing various Highway Construction job openings in Rantoul, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,587 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Construction Resident Engineer

Experience Champaign Urbana

Champaign, IL • On-site

$88 - $135/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title

Construction Resident Engineer

Job Details

Job ID: 3363
Number of Openings: 1

Location

Champaign, Effingham, Normal, Peoria, or Pontiac, IL

Job Summary

Farnsworth Group is seeking a Construction Resident Engineer for heavy highway construction projects. The role involves leading and supervising field staff in contract management, administration, field engineering services, and coordination of mid‑to large‑size heavy highway construction projects. The candidate must have a strong background in transportation projects, traffic control, stormwater pollution prevention, and related facilities. The position requires occasional exposure to heavy traffic or adverse weather conditions and the ability to work effectively under such conditions.

Responsibilities
  • Lead and supervise the construction inspection team.
  • Plan, prepare, and analyze construction documents.
  • Manage construction contracts utilizing CMMS software.
  • Supervise the preparation of inspector daily reports for inclusion on contractor progress payment estimates.
  • Direct and assist staff in reviewing and analyzing contractor project schedules, staging plans, traffic control plans, and other required submittals to ensure they meet contract requirements and restrictions.
  • Meet with contractors regularly to understand and review work plan and schedule, resolve issues in work areas, address scheduling concerns and sequence operations.
  • Assign, schedule, supervise, review, and accept the work on behalf of client.
  • Ensure that safety of personnel and the traveling public is paramount in all work activities.
  • Administer contracts and confirm compliance in accordance with contract plans and specifications. Oversee the activities of Construction Inspectors, Materials Coordinators, Office Engineers, and Administrative personnel.
  • Monitor contractors’ work for compliance to schedule, budget, technical specifications, and legal requirements.
  • Conduct progress meetings and prepare reports on project status.
  • Communicate and implement safety policies, and procedures.
  • Recognize and act promptly on potential changes or additional work, contract conflicts or ambiguities in the plans and specifications and changes in field conditions.
  • Negotiate, analyze, resolve, settle, deny, and/or make recommendations regarding contractor conflicts and claims considering contract plans and specifications, estimates, conditions, costs, and time.
  • Conduct field visits to examine construction site conditions and issues.
  • Participate actively as a key member of the client’s construction team for project delivery.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) License.
  • 6 or more years of Resident Engineering experience for transportation projects.
  • 10 HR OSHA, IDOT HMA and Concrete Level 1, and IDOT Aggregates certifications.
  • Partnering approach to Construction Management.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • IDOT, Tollway, and/or Local Agency federally funded construction experience.
Compensation

Salary Range: $88,000 - $135,000 (Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, as well as internal and external equity)

Benefits
  • 401(k) with 100% Company Match up to 5%
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Short & Long-Term Disability
  • Maternity and Paternity Leave
  • Professional Development and Training
  • Mentoring Program
  • Paid Time Off
  • Wellness/Fitness Reimbursements
  • Pet Insurance Plan
  • Hybrid Work Program
EEO Statement

Farnsworth Group, Inc. is proud to be a M/F Disabled and Veteran EEO/AA employer.

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