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Highway Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ForceSource

Dirt Laborer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Your energetic approach and attention to safety will help ensure smooth project execution from ... highway maintenance sites preferredFamiliarity with heavy equipment operation such as dozers ...

ForceSource

Dirt Laborer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Your energetic approach and attention to safety will help ensure smooth project execution from ... highway maintenance sites preferredFamiliarity with heavy equipment operation such as dozers ...

ForceSource

Dirt Laborer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Your energetic approach and attention to safety will help ensure smooth project execution from ... highway maintenance sites preferredFamiliarity with heavy equipment operation such as dozers ...

ForceSource

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 ...

Iowa Bridge & Culvert

Crane Operator

Washington, IA

... 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 ...

HDR

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 ...

HDR

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 ...

ForceSource

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 ...

Iowa Bridge & Culvert

Crane Operator

Ottumwa, IA

... 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 ...

Iowa Bridge & Culvert

Crane Operator

Burlington, IA

... 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 ...

ForceSource

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 ...

Iowa Bridge & Culvert

Crane Operator

Des Moines, IA

... 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

PE - Civil - Transportation Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... helping you save prep time and focus on impactful teaching. * We handle the logistics--you just ... Ability to explain AASHTO geometric design standards, Highway Capacity Manual methods, and MUTCD ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHighway Helper JobsHighway Helper Jobs in Iowa

Highway Helper information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do highway helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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.

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.

How to get a job working as a highway helper?

To become a highway helper, applicants typically need a valid driver's license, good communication skills, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Job openings are often posted by transportation departments or roadside assistance companies, and some positions may require completion of safety training or certification. Prior experience in customer service or roadside assistance can be beneficial.

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.

How much do highway helpers make?

Highway helpers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often involves roadside assistance, safety protocols, and working in various weather conditions, with some positions offering overtime pay or benefits.

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 is a highway helper?

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 job categories do people searching Highway Helper jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Highway Helper jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Highway Helper jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Highway Helper job openings:
Highway Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Highway Helper job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,114 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Dirt Laborer

ForceSource

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 hours ago

Job description

Job SummaryWe are seeking a motivated and dependable Dirt Laborer to join our construction team, focusing on civil infrastructure projects including highway maintenance, utility locating, and site preparation. In this role, you will be an essential part of the crew responsible for assisting with earth-moving activities, operating heavy equipment, and supporting overall site development. Your energetic approach and attention to safety will help ensure smooth project execution from start to finish. This position offers an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience working on diverse construction projects in a dynamic environment.ResponsibilitiesAssist with excavation, grading, and site preparation tasks using heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, graders, and front loader trucksSupport the operation of dump trucks for hauling materials and debris across construction sitesConduct manual labor including lifting, shoveling, and moving materials to facilitate project progressPerform utility locating to identify underground utilities before excavation beginsFollow safety protocols in accordance with FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations and industry best practicesMaintain equipment by performing basic mechanical checks and reporting any issues promptlySupport paving activities and other civil infrastructure tasks as directed by supervisorsExperiencePrior construction experience working on civil infrastructure projects or highway maintenance sites preferredFamiliarity with heavy equipment operation such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, graders, and dump trucks is highly desirableKnowledge of mechanical systems related to construction machinery and basic troubleshooting skillsAbility to perform heavy lifting and manual handling safely for extended periodsUnderstanding of FMCSA regulations relevant to commercial vehicle operation is a plusExperience working on utility locating or underground utility projects is advantageousProven ability to work effectively in a team environment on busy construction sitesJoin us in building vital infrastructure while developing your skills in a fast-paced, safety-focused environment. We value energetic individuals eager to contribute to meaningful projects that make a difference!