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Highway Helper Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Estimator (Civil/Structures)

Springfield, IL · On-site +1

$140K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Civil Heavy Highway Estimator duties include providing accurate takeoff and cost estimates for ... the expertise to help our customers complete their most complex projects. William Charles ...

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Highway Helper information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do highway helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for highway helper in Springfield, IL is $16.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Highway Helper jobs in Springfield, IL?

For Highway Helper jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Highway Helper jobs in Springfield, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Highway Helper jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Highway Helper jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Highway Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Highway Helper job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,886 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

HIGHWAY MAINTAINER - SANGAMON CO - SIGN SHOP

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$7.1K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 58002 IPR #26-01634Opening Date: 08/06/2026Closing Date: 08/20/2026Agency: Department of TransportationPosition Title: Highway Maintainer - Sangamon County - Sign ShopSalary: Anticipated Starting Salary $7,154 Monthly; Full Range: $7,154 - $8,936 MonthlyJob Type: SalariedCategory: Full Time County: SangamonNumber of Vacancies: 1Bargaining Unit Code: RC019 Downstate (All counties other than Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, & Will counties) Teamsters
This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position. All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.
Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.
This position is subject to a pre-employment physical examination, drug and alcohol testing, and random drug and alcohol testing after hired.
****A CLASS "A" CDL WITH "N" OR "X" ENDORSEMENT IS REQUIRED FOR THIS JOB POSTING****
Please attach a copy of your Class "A" CDL with "N" or "X" endorsement to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application.
Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.
Position Overview
The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire a Highway Maintainer. The successful candidate will prepare signs and materials for delivery, operate trucks to deliver completed signs to all districts statewide, prepare accurate delivery documents, monitor computerized sign inventory system for accuracy and efficiency.
Essential Functions
  • Under direction, prepares signs and materials for delivery; operates trucks to deliver completed signs to all districts statewide, prepares accurate delivery documents; monitors computerized sign inventory system for accuracy and efficiency.
  • Removes completed signs from drying racks, sorts and places in appropriate inventory locations and shipping containers
  • Operates various trucks, forklifts and equipment to package, load, unload, and transport finished and salvageable signs between the districts and the Highway Sign Shop.
  • Prepares accurate shipping documents from production reports and computerized inventory system data.
  • Performs a variety of freeway sign and raised pavement marker rehabilitation tasks at various locations throughout the state.
  • Sorts, classifies, resizes, straightens, and strips salvageable sign materials.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of those enumerated above.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of high school.
  • Requires possession of a Class "A" CDL with appropriate endorsements, to include X or N and no airbrake restrictions.
  • Requires one year of driving experience immediately preceding appointment, free of incidents which could result in license suspension or revocation.

Conditions of Employment
  • Requires successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, a pre-employment physical examination, a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening as well as on-going random drug and alcohol screenings.
  • Requires the ability to perform arduous labor outdoors in a variety of adverse conditions including, but not limited to, hot, cold, wet, windy, muddy, confined spaces, active construction sites, climbing steep terrain, roadways open to traffic and wading in water while dealing with adverse environmental conditions such as poisonous plants, animals, insects, rodents and snakes.
  • Requires the ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions while maintaining productive working relationships.
  • This position is considered medium work as defined by the US Dept. of Labor (20 CFR404.1567(c)). Medium work involves lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Operations employees are subject to call at any hour of the day or night on any day of the year in order to respond to emergencies outside of normal work hours. As a result, negotiated rate employees are required to work reasonable amounts of overtime when necessary. Any bargaining unit employee who may be required to engage in a call out shall respond to the call as quickly as practicable but in no situation can the response time exceed 45 minutes.
  • Requires the ability to work at heights in a bucket truck up to 30 feet in the air.
  • Requires the ability to work on ladders up to 10 feet in the air.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency
The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois. Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs.
The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. Employees also receive a robust benefit package including:
  • Monday-Friday work schedule
  • Flexible work schedules in several program areas (flexible time, hybrid scheduling)
  • Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
  • Pension Plan
  • (12) Weeks paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Deferred Compensation Program and other pre-tax benefit programs (Medical/Daycare)
  • Employees earn (12) paid Sick Days annually
  • New Employees earn (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to (25) paid Vacation Days annually
  • Employees earn (3) paid Personal Days annually
  • (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources

We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.
Work Hours: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM Monday - Friday
Work Location: 1135 W Reynolds St, Springfield, Illinois, 62702
Work Office: Office of Highways and Intermodal Project Implementation / Bureau of Operations
Agency Contact: DOT.CONTACTHR@ILLINOIS.GOV
Posting Group: Building, Fleet & Institutional Support; Public Safety; Transportation
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.
If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.
Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.
Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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