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Paving Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Paver Operator

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$46.25/hr

This position requires experience with paving equipment, attention to detail, and the ability to work closely with the screed operator and ground crew to ensure smooth, level pavement. Other ...

Screed Operator

Rosemount, MN ยท On-site

$50.96/hr

This position works closely with the paver operator and ground crew to maintain a smooth, consistent mat and support overall paving quality and efficiency. Position Description Position Description:

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Asphalt Operator

Shoreview, MN ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Work as part of an asphalt paving crew performing raking, shoveling , lute work, roller operator and asphalt placement and compaction. Assisted with site preparation, equipment operation, and cleanup ...

Equipment Operator

MN ยท On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Highway Heavy Paving Equipment Operator Job Type: Full-Time Location: Various Projects Across Northeastern Minnesota & Upper Midwest Salary: Union Scale / Hourly & Overtime Available Travel: Required ...

Tack Truck Operator

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$20.50 - $26/hr

This role is critical to ensuring proper bond between paving layers and requires precision ... The operator is responsible for the efficient working condition of the equipment and is expected to ...

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Tack Truck Operator

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$42.77/hr

Operating Engineers Local 49 Union ( * Health & Welfare Benefits and Pension would all remain ... This role is critical to ensuring proper bond between paving layers and requires precision ...

Tack Truck Operator

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$20.50 - $26/hr

This role is critical to ensuring proper bond between paving layers and requires precision ... The operator is responsible for the efficient working condition of the equipment and is expected to ...

Screed Operator

Brainerd, MN ยท On-site

$25.67 - $35.10/hr

Non-Exempt The Screed Operator is responsible for operating and adjusting the screed on an asphalt ... Operate and control the screed on the paver to maintain proper depth, width, and smoothness.

Blade Operator

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$48.71/hr

The Blade Operator is responsible for safely and precisely operating a motor grader to establish subgrade and base for asphalt paving projects. This includes cutting, shaping, and finishing roadbeds ...

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Paving Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$5

$27

$47

How much do paving operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for paving operator in Minnesota is $27.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $28.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paving operator?

Paving Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating machinery that lays asphalt or concrete on roads, parking lots, and other surfaces. Their main duties include controlling paving machines, monitoring the evenness and thickness of the material, and ensuring a smooth, safe finish. They also perform routine maintenance on equipment and may coordinate with other crew members to ensure projects are completed efficiently and to quality standards. Paving Operators play a vital role in infrastructure development and road maintenance.

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

To thrive as a Paving Operator, you need hands-on experience with heavy machinery, a solid understanding of paving materials and processes, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with operating asphalt pavers, rollers, and grade control systems, as well as safety certifications such as OSHA training, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for producing smooth, high-quality surfaces and maintaining safety on site. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient operation, project quality, and a safe work environment in construction settings.

What are some common challenges faced by paving operators on a job site?

Paving Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining precise control over heavy machinery, and coordinating closely with ground crews to ensure a smooth, even surface. Tight project deadlines and unexpected equipment malfunctions can also require quick problem-solving and adaptability. Effective communication with the team is essential to address issues promptly and keep the project on track.

What is the difference between Paving Operator vs Asphalt Raker?

AspectPaving OperatorAsphalt Raker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsHigh school diploma, basic safety training, manual asphalt spreading skills
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, heavy machineryConstruction sites, outdoor, manual labor
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, paving contractorsAsphalt paving crews, contractors

The main difference between a Paving Operator and an Asphalt Raker lies in their responsibilities and equipment use. Paving Operators operate heavy machinery like pavers to lay asphalt efficiently, requiring certifications and experience with machinery. Asphalt Rakers manually spread asphalt, focusing on manual labor and less machinery operation. Both roles are essential in asphalt paving projects, but Paving Operators typically handle more technical equipment and larger-scale tasks.

How much do paving operators make?

Paving operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Skilled operators who work with specialized equipment or in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, and many positions offer overtime opportunities and benefits.

How to become a paving operator?

To become a paving operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn equipment operation. Certification in equipment operation or safety training can improve job prospects, and physical stamina is important for working outdoors in various weather conditions.
Infographic showing various Paving Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,894 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Asphalt Paver Operator

Central Specialties, Inc.

Alexandria, MN โ€ข On-site

$32 - $44.67/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Central Specialties, Inc. is a second generation, family owned, general road contracting company serving Minnesota and the Dakotas. We take pride in the reputation we have built for providing responsive customer service, on the job safety, efficient and high-quality products and services. Our skilled workforce of 425+ employees is dedicated to quality and excellence. It's the pride our employees take in their work that keeps CSI at the top of the industry.
What sets us apart!
  • Family owned and operated
  • Best equipment and technology
  • Building the best roads start to finish

Benefits of joining our team!
  • Traveling throughout Minnesota and the Dakotas
  • Winters off
  • Working outdoors
  • Company paid training opportunities
  • We promote from within

As an Asphalt Paver Operator you will be tasked with proper maintenance and greasing of the paving machine and pick up machine. Communicating with the asphalt dumper and screed operator.
Requirements:
  • Must be able to travel throughout Minnesota, North and South Dakota
  • Regular, consistent attendance and regular overtime at all assigned job sites
  • Valid Driver's License, preferably Class A
  • Acceptable motor vehicle record
  • Previous paving equipment operation experience
  • Strong mechanical skills
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team
  • Physical strength and endurance to perform all principal duties and responsibilities
  • Ability to work cooperatively with others

Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for overall operation of the paver
  • While operating equipment, maintain clear and effective communication with the asphalt dumper and screed operator
  • Perform routine maintenance on the paving machine and pick up machine, such as greasing, checking fluid levels, and cleaning the equipment
  • Prioritize safety at all times, following company and industry safety guidelines and protocols
  • Performs other tasks as needed

Benefits:
  • Group Health Insurance
  • Vision
  • Dental
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • 401 (k) Company Match
  • 401(k) Company Discretionary Contribution
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Employee Sick and Safe Time (Part-time and seasonal employees)
  • Per Diem
  • Electronic Direct Deposit

Central Specialties is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.