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Highway Construction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Highway Construction Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$80K - $94K/yr

RINA is currently recruiting for a Highway Construction Engineer to join its North America Infrastructure & Mobility Division in Illinois . Please note this position requires regular travel to ...

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Highway Construction information

See salary details

$35K

$79.3K

$133.5K

How much do highway construction jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for highway construction in the United States is $79,268.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 much do road construction workers make in the US?

Road construction workers in the US typically earn a median hourly wage of around $20 to $25, which translates to approximately $40,000 to $52,000 annually for full-time employment. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and whether workers have specialized skills or certifications such as OSHA training or operating heavy machinery.

How to get a job working on the highway?

To work in highway construction, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and may require a valid driver's license. Relevant skills include physical fitness, ability to operate machinery, and knowledge of safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can improve job prospects. Applying through construction companies, labor unions, or government agencies is common, and some positions may require experience or apprenticeship programs.

What's the highest paid construction job?

In highway construction, the highest paid roles are often project managers, construction engineers, and superintendents, especially those with extensive experience and specialized skills. These positions typically require certifications, strong leadership abilities, and knowledge of construction management tools, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on project size and location.

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.

How do you get into road construction?

To become a highway construction worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require a commercial driver's license or specialized certifications. Gaining experience through entry-level laborer roles and learning skills such as operating machinery and understanding safety protocols can help advance in the field.

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 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.
More about Highway Construction jobs
What cities are hiring for Highway Construction jobs? Cities with the most Highway Construction job openings:
What states have the most Highway Construction jobs? States with the most job openings for Highway Construction jobs include:
Infographic showing various Highway Construction job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,268 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Highway Construction Engineer

RINA

Lisle, IL • On-site

$80K - $94K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

RINA is currently recruiting for a Highway Construction Engineer to join its North America Infrastructure & Mobility Division in Illinois.

Please note this position requires regular travel to projects sites in and around the Chicagoland area. A company vehicle is provided for project travel only. 

Compensation Data

$80,000 - $94,000 commensurate with education and experience

Mission

The Construction Engineer supports highway/roadway construction projects by inspecting and documenting on-site work performed by the Contractor. Responsibilities include monitoring the Contractor's activities, performing QA/QC of materials, maintaining daily reports, and when appropriate preparing inspection and close-out documentation. 

The role works cross-functionally with project teams and may assist the Project Manager or Resident Engineer with change orders, scheduling reviews, monthly reporting, and cost tracking.

Key Accountabilities
  • Provide inspection services for highway/roadway construction projects (interpreting plans, construction specifications, verification of contractor conformance with the bid documents, work with a team of inspectors)
  • Complete inspector's daily report (IDR) and daily activities journal.
  • Perform field measurements for quantity calculations and reporting for pay estimates
  • Review construction documents and project drawings for completeness, accuracy, and constructability
    • Coordinate with other engineers and support staff; review plans from multiple disciplines to verify that a cohesive set of contract documents exists for construction
    • Review project work for quality and safety requirements
  • Communicate effectively with the project team, including clients, contractors, and project stakeholders
  • Observe safety and security procedures; report potentially unsafe conditions and use equipment and materials properly
  • Provide material testing
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field of study. Experience may be considered in lieu of education.  
  • IDOT Documentation of Contract Quantities certification required
  • 5+ years of experience in construction inspection or related construction work
  • Experience performing field inspection services on IDOT or Local Public Agencies' transportation construction projects
  • IDOT (QMTP) Material Testing Certifications (Aggregates, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Nuclear Density and/or Portland Cement Concrete), a plus.
  • Knowledge of general engineering principles, codes, construction techniques, materials, methods, and sequencing
  • General understanding of field construction: systems, practices, safety, and procedures
  • Ability to interpret construction documents
  • Strong technical written and verbal communications skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

Additional Requirements

  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel in and around Illinois (vehicle is provided)


The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. 

#LI-LS1

Competencies
  • WORKPLACE DYNAMICS - Resourcefulness in shaping progress and working efficiently.
  • FORESIGHT & INSIGHT - Context awareness adopting a systemic perspective and informed decision making.
  • PERSONAL EMPOWERMENT - Ownership for life, work and results, striving to grow professionally and personally.
  • INTERPERSONAL INFLUENCE - Skills and strategies we use to interact effectively with others.
  • DOMAIN & BUSINESS ACUMEN - Applying a scientific approach and critical thinking in operations and solution development within area of expertise.

RINA is a multinational company providing a wide range of services in the energy, marine, certification, infrastructure & mobility, industry, research & development sectors. Our business model covers the full process of project development, from concept to completion.

RINA North America provides a comprehensive benefits package, including the following insurance options: Medical, Dental, Vision, Medical Flexible Spending Account, Dependent Care Spending Account, Health Savings Account, Transit, Parking, Basic Life, Basic AD&D, Voluntary Life, Voluntary AD&D, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Voluntary Accident, Voluntary Critical Illness, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, and Employee Assistance Program. Additional benefits provided include paid time off, company holidays, tuition reimbursement, nursery grant, travel resource services, and 401K plan with company  discretionary match.

At RINA, we endeavor to create a work environment where every single person is valued and encouraged to develop new ideas. We provide equal employment opportunities and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected and safe from discrimination or harassment of any kind. It is the policy of RINA to provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race,  color, religion, sex (including pregnancy) national origin, age, disabilities, marital status, sexual orientation, genetics, military status, disabled veterans, recently separated veterans, other protected veterans (veterans who served during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a badge has been authorized), and Armed Forces service medal veteran, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. We are strongly committed to this policy and believe in the concept and spirit of the law.

RINA does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of RINA without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of RINA. Please, no phone calls or emails.