1

Highway Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Highway Technician - Denison

Ames, IA · On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

As a Highway Technician, your responsibilities help fulfill our Mission - Making Lives Better Through Transportation through your dedication to our Core Values: Safety First, People Matter, Customer ...

Highway Technician - Tipton

Ames, IA · On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

The responsibilities of this position help fulfill our Mission - Making Lives Better Through ... work in highway maintenance, equipment operation, construction inspection, field work in ...

Highway Safety Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

$81K - $124K/yr

... help find the best path forward. This role involves regular collaboration with DOT staff, local ... The Highway Safety Engineer, as a member of the Safety Engineering & Planning Section, primarily ...

Transportation Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but ... Primary Responsibilities As a Transportation Engineer, you will work as a key member of a highway ...

Dirt Laborer

Des Moines, IA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... highway maintenance, utility locating, and site preparation. In this role, you will be an essential ... Your energetic approach and attention to safety will help ensure smooth project execution from ...

... Highway and/or Structures industries. Familiarity with both hydraulic and friction type cranes is preferred. Carpentry and/or concrete experience is helpful but not required. Must have basic math ...

Dirt Laborer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

... highway maintenance, utility locating, and site preparation. In this role, you will be an essential ... Your energetic approach and attention to safety will help ensure smooth project execution from ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Highway Helper information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do highway helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for highway helper in Iowa is $15.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

Highway helpers typically work outdoors and on-site, making it unlikely to earn $2000 weekly from home. To reach that income level remotely, consider roles in sales, digital marketing, freelance writing, or online consulting that leverage skills, experience, and a strong client base. Building multiple income streams and developing specialized skills can help increase earnings to that level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Highway Helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Highway Helper, you generally need a valid driver's license, basic automotive repair knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with roadside assistance tools, GPS navigation systems, and sometimes certifications in first aid or traffic control are typical requirements. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help in effectively assisting motorists and coordinating with emergency services. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring driver safety, efficient roadside operations, and positive public interactions during high-stress situations.

What is the difference between Highway Helper vs Roadside Assistance Technician?

AspectHighway HelperRoadside Assistance Technician
CredentialsMay require valid driver’s license, basic safety trainingOften requires driver’s license, certification in vehicle repair or safety
Work EnvironmentOutdoor highway or roadside areas, often in all weather conditionsOutdoor and sometimes indoor settings, including garages or roadside
Employer & IndustryTransportation companies, highway maintenance, roadside service providersAuto clubs, roadside assistance companies, insurance providers
Search & Comparison IntentHighway Helper vs Roadside Assistance Technician

The main difference between a Highway Helper and a Roadside Assistance Technician lies in their roles and certifications. Highway Helpers primarily assist stranded motorists on highways, often with basic safety and towing support, while Roadside Assistance Technicians may have additional vehicle repair skills and certifications. Both work outdoors in similar environments and are employed by roadside service providers. Understanding these distinctions helps motorists find the right support for their needs.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 a week without a degree often include roles such as experienced highway helpers involved in construction or roadside assistance, especially if they have specialized skills or certifications. These positions may require physical stamina, technical knowledge, or on-the-job training, and earnings can vary based on experience, location, and workload.

What jobs pay $250 an hour?

High-paying jobs that can reach $250 an hour include specialized roles such as experienced surgeons, anesthesiologists, corporate lawyers, and certain high-level consultants. These positions typically require advanced education, certifications, and significant experience, often working in high-stakes environments or providing expert services.

What are some common challenges Highway Helpers face during their shifts, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Highway Helpers often encounter unpredictable situations such as assisting stranded motorists in heavy traffic, adverse weather conditions, or during nighttime hours. New hires should be prepared for the physical and mental demands of working outdoors and responding quickly to emergencies. Effective communication with dispatch, law enforcement, and motorists is crucial, as is maintaining calm under pressure. Familiarity with safety protocols and basic vehicle troubleshooting can help new team members adapt more smoothly to the role.

What are Highway Helpers?

Highway Helpers are individuals or teams who patrol highways to assist stranded motorists, clear minor accidents, and help maintain traffic flow. They often provide services such as changing flat tires, jump-starting vehicles, providing fuel, and moving vehicles out of traffic lanes. Their primary goal is to ensure driver safety and minimize traffic disruptions on busy roads. Highway Helpers work in coordination with law enforcement and emergency services to respond quickly to incidents. They are typically employed by state departments of transportation or private contractors.
What are popular job titles related to Highway Helper jobs in Iowa? For Highway Helper jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Highway Helper jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Highway Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Highway Helper job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $32,114 per year, or $15.4 per hour.
Highway Technician - Denison

Highway Technician - Denison

State of Iowa

Ames, IA • On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description Are you interested in roadway construction and maintenance. The Iowa Department of Transportation is looking for individuals who will complete inspections of construction projects and help support the maintenance garages with snow removal efforts as a Highway Technician. Despite working between the two different areas, you will get to be a part of one dedicated team.

Whether you're working in construction or maintenance, inside an office or outside in the elements, you'll keep the roads safe by: Conducting routine sampling, inspection, and testing of materials used in highway construction Maintaining construction records Informing contractors and project inspectors of construction quality issues and/or non-complying work Operating snow equipment to remove snow, ice and frost from roadways Performing routine maintenance and servicing DOT equipment and vehicles Repairing and maintaining guardrails, signs, fences, and lighting To excel in this position, you will need the ability to learn new software, access and utilize multiple applications, and efficiently execute a high volume of typing while using a variety of technical devices and software applications. As a Highway Technician, your responsibilities help fulfill our Mission - Making Lives Better Through Transportation through your dedication to our Core Values: Safety First, People Matter, Customer Focused, Servant Leadership, and Integrity Without Exception alongside your teammates. Residency: Denison Maintenance Garage - Within five (5) months, employees are required to reside within 45 minutes driving time, during normal conditions, from assigned work location.

Shift: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Hours may vary and the position is subject to be on call 24 hours a day during emergency and/or weather conditions. Some overnight travel may be required.

As a State of Iowa employee, you will be eligible for the following benefits: Competitive pay and benefits package including health, dental, flexible spending, and life insurance Insurance benefits start the first month following 30 days of employment and costs can be reviewed here. Opportunities for professional growth and development. Paid time off effective immediately - biweekly vacation, separate sick leave, accruals rollover on a yearly basis, and 9 paid holidays per year.

Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package with employer match Optional 401A plan with employer contributions. Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling; legal, financial). We encourage you to view more about the State of Iowa Employee benefits and costs at the State of Iowa Employee Benefits Website.

Special Requirements: A CDL permit upon hire. Class A and endorsements/restrictions on your CDL within 5 months following your hire date. Entry Level Driver Training is available upon hire through the Iowa DOT.

The multi-faceted training will help meet all state and federal regulations. A successful U.S. DOT Clearinghouse query

A pre-employment physical verifying the physical ability to perform the duties described. Click the video link for a demonstration:OPC Webinar Chapter 4 PCP Demo Test (youtube.com) A pre-employment drug screen and will require ongoing participation in random drug and alcohol testing programs. May be required to obtain pesticide/herbicide certifications or other certifications as needed

Help make Iowa roadways safe for you, your family, and your friends. You have the freedom to flourish in Iowa - Apply now. The Iowa Department of Transportation is an equal-opportunity employer.

If you require a reasonable accommodation in completing any screening, interviewing, pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the selection process, please direct your request to the Affirmative Action & Equal Employment Opportunity (AA/EEO) Officer at: aa-eeo@iowadot.us Reasonable accommodation such as interpreter, translator, written materials, modified equipment/devices, ADA access, etc. This does not include scheduling needs. The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees

Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification: Graduation from high school, GED, or equivalency, and experience equal to two years of full-time work in highway maintenance, equipment operation, construction inspection, field work in engineering survey, or materials inspection and testing

A total of two years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in number one), where thirty semester hours of post-high-school education in highway maintenance, equipment operation, construction inspection, field work in engineering survey, or materials inspection and testing equals one year of full-time experience. Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes eighteen months of full-time work as a Highway Technician Associate or Construction Technician Assistant. For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Additional Qualification Requirements Positions in this class require possession of a valid Commercial Learner's Permit upon hire. Within a timeframe determined by the appointing authority, a valid Commercial Driver's License with the required endorsements and applicable restrictions must be obtained and subsequently maintained to continue employment. In conjunction with Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (parts 40 and 382), this job requires a pre-employment drug screen and will require ongoing participation in the employer's random drug and alcohol testing program and will be subject to the regulations regarding the Federal drug and alcohol testing program.

Prior to starting employment, all persons are required to have a post offer, pre-employment physical verifying the physical ability to perform the duties described. Within a period of time after hire, as determined by the appointing authority, employees in this class may be required to obtain and maintain Herbicide Applicator certification from the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Positions require certification for testing materials and operating specialized equipment as required by the Iowa Department of Transportation's Technical Training and Certification Program for Highway Materials and Construction; and/or other certifications as required.

Travel, including overnight travel, may be required for positions in this class. Employees must arrange transportation to and from assigned work areas. Within a timeframe determined by the appointing authority, employees in designated positions are required to reside within a defined driving time, during normal conditions, from the assigned work location.

Employees must respond to emergency situations as required. Employees must be able to work up to 16 consecutive hours.


What State Of Iowa employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Iowa logo

About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939