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Highway Worker Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Highway Worker information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do highway worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for highway worker in Virginia is $23.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a highway worker?

Highway workers are skilled laborers responsible for constructing, maintaining, and repairing roads, highways, and related infrastructure. Their duties may include paving roads, filling potholes, operating heavy machinery, and installing traffic signs and barriers. They work in various weather conditions and often ensure that roads are safe and accessible for motorists. Highway workers play a crucial role in keeping transportation networks functioning smoothly and safely.

What are some common challenges highway workers face during road maintenance projects?

Highway Workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, dealing with heavy traffic, and adhering to strict safety protocols. The work can be physically demanding and may require long hours, especially during emergency repairs or seasonal maintenance. Team coordination is crucial, as Highway Workers must collaborate closely with equipment operators, supervisors, and other crew members to ensure projects are completed efficiently and safely.

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

To thrive as a Highway Worker, you need fundamental skills in construction, road maintenance, and the safe operation of heavy equipment, often supported by a high school diploma and a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Familiarity with tools such as jackhammers, asphalt pavers, and safety protocols like OSHA standards is commonly required. Physical stamina, teamwork, attention to detail, and a strong safety mindset are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure efficient, high-quality roadwork while maintaining safety for both workers and the public.

What is the difference between Highway Worker vs Road Maintenance Technician?

AspectHighway WorkerRoad Maintenance Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, CDL often preferredHigh school diploma, CDL optional
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, construction sites, highwaysOutdoor, roadways, maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageState DOTs, construction companiesMunicipalities, state agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Highway Workers and Road Maintenance Technicians both work outdoors on roadways and often require similar certifications like a high school diploma. Highway Workers typically focus on construction and highway repair projects, while Road Maintenance Technicians handle routine maintenance and repairs. Both roles are essential for roadway safety and are employed by government agencies and contractors.

How much do highway workers make?

Highway workers typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $35,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and specific duties. Many positions require knowledge of safety protocols and operating construction equipment, with opportunities for overtime and union benefits.

How to get a job working on the highway?

To become a highway worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require a valid driver's license. Relevant skills include knowledge of safety procedures, operating construction equipment, and physical stamina; certifications such as OSHA safety training can be beneficial. Job opportunities are often found through government transportation departments, construction companies, or labor unions.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Highway Worker jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Highway Worker job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Highway Worker jobs in VA?

For Highway Worker jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Highway Worker job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,504 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Job Title: Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC)
Location: Richmond, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Hourly; Non-Exempt
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Supervisory Responsibility: No
Compensation: $25 to $37 based on skills and experience.

Company Profile:
National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all of these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project. Find the safety you have been missing today!
Job Description:
National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is seeking a Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC) to support railroad flagging services for Class 1 Railroads, Regional Short Lines, Transit Systems, State DOT's, as well as Railroad Suppliers, Contractors, and Consultants alike.
Required Education:
High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Required Experience:
Minimum 2 years of experience with a Class 1 Railroad, Regional Short Line, Transit System, State DOT Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Railroad Contractor, and/or Railroad Consultant; preferably within the Maintenance Of Way (MOW) Department.

Job Requirements:

  • Proficient computer skills in basic email, phone, and text message applications.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail; well organized.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain strong client relationships.
  • Ability to travel for extended periods of time; sometimes month(s) at a time.
  • Ability to successfully complete Federal, Client, and/or Company Specific Training.

Job Duties:

  • Provide jobsite coordination.
  • Provide clear and concise communication with Dispatchers, Train Crews, other Railroad Personnel, and/or Contractor personnel.
  • Provide clear, concise, and thorough job briefings with all personnel on each job site.
  • Enforce all Railroad, State, and Federal Policies.
  • Identify rule violations and resolve in accordance with Railroad, State, and Federal Policies.
  • Submit daily field reports detailing Contractor and/or Railroad activities.
  • Provide On-Track Safety in accordance with 49 CFR 214 Federal Regulations for Class 1 Railroads, Regional Short Lines, Transit Systems, State DOT Rail Divisions, Railroad Suppliers, Railroad Contractors, and/or Railroad Consultants.

Work Environment:
This job operates in a field environment.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Must be able to hear, speak, read, and write clearly in English.
  • Must be able to drive long distances and/or travel by other modes as necessary.
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time and/or walk on level/uneven ground.
  • Must be able to tolerate extreme heat/cold temperatures.
  • Must be able to tolerate dusty/noisy conditions.
  • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Keywords:
Assistant Division Engineer (ADE), Assistant General Manager (AGM), Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Flagmen, Foreman, Foremen, General Manager (GM), Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.
Safety Commitment:
All employees of all levels are to remain committed to safety at all times while employed at National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS). As such, no job is so important and no service is so urgent that we may not take time to perform all work safely. Simply put, safety is our way of life. By placing safety first, we not only ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities, but we hold true our commitment to being the leader in safety throughout the Railroad Industry.
Closing Statement:
National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Any candidate selected for this position must be able to successfully pass pre-employment/recurrent background checks, drug/alcohol testing, and classroom training.