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Pavement Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Braun Intertec

Senior Pavement Engineer

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Consult on network-level pavement management, budget forecasting, multi-year project planning, and lead/support research projects * Perform other job duties, as assigned Required Skills: * Strong ...

LSU AgCenter

Research Associate 4

Louisiana, MO · On-site

LSUAM Engineering - LTRC - Sustainable and Resilient Pavement Materials and Technologies Center (Louay N Mohammad (00009649)) Work Location:0101 Louisiana Transportation Research Center Pay Grade:

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RDM International

Be Seen First

Pavement Testing & Evaluation Technician

Sterling, VA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

We have performed research for the FAA as well as other government agencies and commercial clients ... RDM's expertise and experience in pavement materials and failures, such as durability concerns ...

The Pennsylvania State University

NECEPT conducts pavement materials research, as well as the technician certification programs and related training courses for Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, in the areas of asphalt and ...

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Pavement Research information

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$11K

$112.8K

$129K

How much do pavement research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for pavement research in the United States is $112,800.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,000.00 and $129,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Pavement Research vs Pavement Engineer?

AspectPavement ResearchPavement Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in civil engineering or related field, often with research experienceRequires a degree in civil engineering, often with licensure or certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or testing facilitiesConstruction sites, project offices, and field locations
Industry UsageFocuses on developing new materials, testing pavement performance, and innovationDesigning, constructing, and maintaining pavements in infrastructure projects

While both roles involve pavement materials and industry knowledge, Pavement Research primarily focuses on testing, developing, and improving pavement technologies in lab or research settings. Pavement Engineers apply this knowledge in real-world projects, overseeing pavement design, construction, and maintenance.

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

To thrive as a Pavement Researcher, you need a strong background in civil engineering, materials science, and pavement design, often supported by an advanced degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, pavement analysis software (such as AASHTOware or MEPDG), and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for presenting research findings and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are vital for developing innovative pavement solutions and ensuring infrastructure safety and longevity.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Pavement Research, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Professionals in Pavement Research often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving materials technology, ensuring accurate data collection in field studies, and balancing project deadlines with rigorous analysis. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including civil engineers, material scientists, and government agencies—is common, so strong communication skills are crucial. Job seekers can prepare by gaining hands-on experience with laboratory equipment, staying updated on industry standards, and developing project management abilities to handle the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable nature of research projects.

What is pavement research?

Pavement research is the study of the design, construction, performance, and maintenance of pavement systems, such as roads, highways, and airport runways. Researchers in this field analyze materials, test new technologies, and develop methods to improve the durability, safety, and sustainability of pavements. The goal is to extend pavement lifespan, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance transportation infrastructure for public use.
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What cities are hiring for Pavement Research jobs? Cities with the most Pavement Research job openings:
What states have the most Pavement Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Pavement Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pavement Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pavement Research jobs are:
Pavement Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pavement Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,800 per year, or $54.2 per hour.
Staff Civil Engineer - Pavement & Geotechnical Research and Consulting

Staff Civil Engineer - Pavement & Geotechnical Research and Consulting

ARA

Ventura, CA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

ARA is seeking a staff civil engineer with a focus on pavement and geotechnical engineering to join our growing team. This full-time position is available at one of our offices in Champaign, IL; Ventura, CA; or Madison, WI. Please indicate your location preference(s) in your application.
This role is ideal for someone who wants to apply research expertise to practical engineering challenges. You'll work on both research and consulting projects, tackling complex infrastructure problems in pavement design, geotechnical asset management, field testing, and data-driven condition assessments.
At ARA, you'll be part of a collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven team. We support engineers who want to grow technically, contribute to high-quality deliverables, and evolve into subject matter experts.
What you'll do as a staff civil engineer:
  • Conduct applied research and consulting work in pavement and geotechnical engineering, including design, analysis, materials testing, and condition evaluation
  • Support proposal writing, technical reporting, and data analysis for transportation infrastructure projects
  • Contribute to projects involving pavement management systems, FWD/GPR testing, geotechnical evaluations, and asset management
  • Work closely with senior engineers and technical staff to deliver innovative, client-focused solutions
  • Participate in industry conferences and contribute to publications and presentations
  • Assist in field investigations and project execution, which may include occasional travel
  • Develop and enhance technical capabilities in pavement and geotechnical systems through both hands-on work and formal mentorship

Staff civil engineer requirements:
  • BS in Civil Engineering and 2-4 years of experience, or equivalent; advanced degree preferred
  • Research experience in areas such as pavement design, pavement condition evaluation, soil mechanics, or geotechnical testing
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively on multi-disciplinary teams

Preferred qualifications:
  • Certified EIT with intent to pursue PE licensure
  • Experience with MATLAB, Python, R, GIS, or database management tools
  • Publication or presentation experience in technical venues
  • Familiarity with proposal or grant writing

Salary & benefits:
The anticipated salary range for this position is $75,000 to 90,000/year, depending on education and experience, as well as location. ARA also offers competitive benefits that address our employees' needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits at https://www.ara.com/benefits/.
About ARA:
ARA is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs more than 2,200 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in civil technologies, computer software and simulation, defense technologies, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for pavement analysis, environmental site characterization, and robotics.
At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company's success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience.
Join us and help shape the future of transportation infrastructure.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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