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Highway Construction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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This position involves outdoor work in all weather conditions. * Assist with various tasks on highway construction sites, including but not limited to digging, shoveling, carrying materials and using ...

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Highway Construction information

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$35K

$79.3K

$133.5K

How much do highway construction jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,268 per year, or $38.1 per hour.
Laborer: Highway Construction

Laborer: Highway Construction

Traffic Management Solutions Inc

Schertz, TX โ€ข On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Summary: Perform physical labor and operate non-commercial vehicles and mobile equipment to complete heavy highway construction projects.

Essential Functions may include, but are not limited to:

  1. Operate hand and power tools of all types: air hammers, earth tampers, cement mixers, small mechanical hoists, surveying and measuring equipment, and a variety of other equipment and instruments.
  2. Measure, mark, and record openings and distances to lay out areas where construction work will be performed.
  3. Build and position forms for pouring concrete, and dismantle forms after use, using saws, hammers, nails, or bolts.
  4. Erect and disassemble scaffolding, shoring, braces, traffic barricades, ramps, and other temporary structures.
  5. Dig ditches or trenches, backfill excavations, and compact and level earth to grade specifications, using picks, shovels, pneumatic tampers, and rakes.
  6. Operate jackhammers and drills to break up concrete or pavement.
  7. Tend pumps, compressors, and generators to provide power for tools, machinery, and equipment, or to heat and move materials such as asphalt.
  8. Signal equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of machinery, equipment, and materials.
  9. Control traffic passing near, in, and around work zones.
  10. Load, unload, and identify building materials, machinery, and tools, and distribute them to the appropriate locations, according to project plans and specifications.
  11. Lubricate, clean, and repair machinery, equipment, and tools.

Required Qualifications:

  1. Valid class C driver license.
  2. Ability to travel weekly for projects located out of town.

Preferred Qualifications:

  1. Previous highway construction or equipment operator experience a plus.
  2. Class A or B commercial license preferred.

Working Environment:

Work is performed in primarily outdoor environments with constant exposure to noise, dust, fumes, noxious odors, gases, mechanical and electrical hazards, moving objects, sharp edges, and temperature extremes.

Physical Demands:

  1. Frequent operation of equipment with vibrating and moving parts.
  2. Frequent and repeated hand and arm movement to manipulate tools, handles, and levers.
  3. Frequent and repeated lifting from ground to various heights up to 50 pounds individually, and team lifting heavier items.
  4. Frequent and repeated exerting of force up to 100 pounds.
  5. Standing and walking for extended periods of time.
  6. Frequent walking on uneven and / or unpaved terrain.
  7. Frequent climbing steps, ladders, and in/out/onto vehicles.
  8. Frequent and repeated bending, stooping, crawling, kneeling, reaching, and crouching.
  9. Visual acuity to drive motor vehicles and mobile equipment and to read printed and electronic documents.
  10. Hearing capacity to receive, perceive, and react to common driving and construction environment noises.

The above description covers the principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements of the job. This description is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. Other miscellaneous, incidental, or similar duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required.

Traffic Management Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer by both policy and practice. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. It is the intent of Traffic Management Solutions employment and personnel practices to conform to all Federal, State and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination.