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Screed Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VSS International, Inc.

$18 - $30/hr

Communicate effectively with paver operator, screed operator, and other crew members. * Perform daily equipment inspections and report mechanical issues immediately. * Maintain roller cleanliness ...

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BrightView Landscapes

Concrete Finisher

San Diego, CA

$32/hr

Spread, level & smooth concrete, using rake, shovel, hand or power trowel, hand or power screed and ... Produce rough concrete surface using broom operated power vibrator to compact concrete. * Sprinkle ...

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Screed Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$25

$44

How much do screed operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for screed operator in California is $25.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $30.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a screed operator?

A screed operator is a construction professional responsible for operating the screed machine attached to an asphalt paver. Their main job is to control the thickness, width, and smoothness of the asphalt as it is laid on roads or parking lots. Screed operators ensure that the final surface meets precise specifications for quality and uniformity, working closely with other crew members to monitor temperature and material flow. Attention to detail and understanding of paving processes are essential for this role.

What is a screed operator?

A screed operator runs a screed, the equipment responsible for leveling asphalt when creating new pavement. In this career, you must have the skills to make the pavement as smooth as possible by applying the asphalt to plan specifications and compensating for uneven depth. In this position, the minimum qualifications are two years of previous experience on a road construction crew. This job can lead to a lucrative career in construction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a screed operator?

To thrive as a Screed Operator, you need expertise in operating paving and screed machinery, an understanding of asphalt and paving processes, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with controls on asphalt pavers, routine equipment maintenance, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring high-quality, safe, and efficient paving operations on construction sites.

What are some common challenges faced by screed operators on construction sites?

Screed Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise depth and slope while working with varying material consistencies and site conditions. Coordination with the paving crew and timely communication with other machine operators are essential to ensure a smooth, even surface. Additionally, long hours outdoors and exposure to weather can be demanding, but attention to safety protocols and teamwork help manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Screed Operator vs Concrete Finisher?

AspectScreed OperatorConcrete Finisher
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and certification in operating screed equipmentRequires a high school diploma and training in finishing techniques
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly on large concrete slabs, using screed machines to level surfacesWorks on various concrete surfaces, performing finishing and smoothing by hand or with tools
Industry UsageCommon in large-scale construction projects, especially for flat concrete surfacesFound across construction sites, focusing on detailed finishing work

While both roles involve working with concrete, a Screed Operator primarily uses machinery to level large surfaces efficiently, whereas a Concrete Finisher focuses on detailed finishing and smoothing by hand. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the concrete industry.

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Screed Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Screed Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,730 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Rubber Tire Roller Equipment Operator

VSS International, Inc.

Santa Cruz, CA • On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description
Position at VSS International, Inc.
"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY"
We are in need of Equipment Operator - Rubber Tire Roller for our VSS International, Inc job in Santa Cruz County. This opportunity is contingent upon being awarded the project.
The ideal candidate will be a safe, hardworking, team-oriented person who is ok with working outdoors on road construction crews.
General Duties
  • Operate rubber tire roller in asphalt paving operations to achieve proper compaction and mat finish.
  • Follow rolling patterns, speeds, and sequences as directed by foreman or crew lead.
  • Monitor asphalt temperatures and surface conditions to prevent over-rolling or material displacement.
  • Communicate effectively with paver operator, screed operator, and other crew members.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report mechanical issues immediately.
  • Maintain roller cleanliness (tires, drums, water systems if equipped).
  • Assist with general asphalt crew duties when not operating equipmentFollow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and jobsite procedures.
  • Maintain awareness of surrounding equipment, personnel, and traffic control

Qualifications
  • Must have good communications skills both written and verbal to interact with internal and external drivers and customers.
  • Must possess the ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects utilizing organizational skills and communications skills.
  • Strong sense of responsibility regarding timely and accurate completion of work, and a strong commitment to company goals.
  • Must be capable of functioning under fast paced stressful working conditions within live traffic
  • Prior pavement preservation experience is required

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT:
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.

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