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Paving Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

State of Indiana

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gary, IN

$22/hr

Gradall, Backhoes, Dozers, Vactors, Sweepers, SewerJets, Loaders, Skidsteers, Ag-spreaders, Pavers ... Heavy Equipment Operator: * Operate various types of heavy and specialized equipment to include ...

State of Indiana

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gary, IN · On-site

$22/hr

Gradall, Backhoes, Dozers, Vactors, Sweepers, SewerJets, Loaders, Skidsteers, Ag-spreaders, Pavers ... Heavy Equipment Operator: * Operate various types of heavy and specialized equipment to include ...

Oak Park

Equipment Operator

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Operation and maintenance requirements of power-driven equipment for pavement maintenance ... of time - Operating assigned equipment. Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and ...

IMC Companies

Be Seen First

Yard Coordinator / Lift Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $23/hr

We are a growing intermodal trucking company operating an ocean container storage depot in Elwood ... pave the way for our team's career success.

K-Five Construction Corporation

Laborer - CDL-A

Westmont, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Why K-Five Construction Corporation? * 4th Generation Family Owned and Operated * One of the Largest Asphalt and Concrete paving companies in the Midwest * Established reputation of high-quality ...

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All JobsPaving Operator JobsPaving Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Paving Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$29

$50

How much do paving operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for paving operator in Chicago, IL is $29.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $29.76 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.
Paving Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paving Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,893 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Project Manager - Asphalt & Paving Contractor

LeoForce

Homewood, IL • On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Project Manager – Asphalt & Paving Contractor

Location: Homewood,IL, US

Date Posted: 08-08-2026

Job Description

Experience: Senior Level

Salary: $110,000 - $150,000 per year

Job Details

We are seeking a driven and detail-oriented Project Manager/Estimator to join our team. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a passion for delivering high-quality infrastructure projects. You’ll be responsible for estimating and managing asphalt paving and concrete projects from bid through closeout.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for asphalt paving, site development, and related civil projects.
  • Analyze blueprints, specifications, proposals, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, and labor estimates.
  • Manage awarded projects, including scheduling, subcontractor coordination, material procurement, and client communication.
  • Monitor project progress, budgets, and timelines to ensure successful delivery.
  • Conduct site visits to assess conditions and gather data for estimates and project planning.
  • Collaborate with field superintendents, engineers, and clients to resolve issues and maintain quality standards.
  • Maintain detailed records of estimates, contracts, change orders, and project documentation.
Qualifications:
  • 3+ years of experience in estimating and/or project management in asphalt paving or heavy civil construction.
  • Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and equipment.
  • Proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred.
A bit about us:

With nearly a century of experience in concrete, asphalt paving, and heavy civil construction, we are a family owned and operated company recognized for our commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. Operating with a strong regional presence and a reputation for delivering high-performance infrastructure solutions, our organization offers a stable and growth-oriented environment for professionals looking to make a lasting impact in the industry. Our services include but are not limited to asphalt and concrete paving, material sales, construction management, highway construction and more.

Why join us?

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
  • A collaborative and safety-focused work environment.

#construction #project-management #civil-construction #paving #tier5

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