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8 high-paying jobs in road and highway construction

As infrastructure needs continue to grow, the demand for skilled professionals in road and highway construction is expected to remain strong
Photo credit: Shutterstock.com / michaeljung

The construction industry is a vast and dynamic field, encompassing a wide range of specialized roles that contribute to developing and maintaining our infrastructure. Among these, road and highway construction plays a crucial role in connecting communities and facilitating the movement of people and goods. While many jobs in this sector require physical labor and specialized skills, they offer promising career paths and attractive compensation packages. Here’s a look at eight high-paying jobs in road and highway construction that typically earn over $80,000 per year:


1. Construction Manager


Construction managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of road and highway construction projects. They are responsible for developing project budgets and timelines, coordinating with various teams, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and managing the project’s overall success. Construction managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field and several years of experience in the industry.

2. Project Engineer


Project engineers play a critical role in the technical aspects of road and highway construction projects. They work closely with construction managers to design, develop, and implement project plans, ensuring the construction meets engineering specifications and safety standards. Project engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field and several years of experience in the industry.

3. Estimator

Estimators are responsible for calculating the costs of road and highway construction projects. They analyze project plans, specifications, and material costs to determine the budget. Estimators typically have a bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field and several years of experience in the industry.

4. Surveyor

Surveyors are responsible for measuring and mapping the land where road and highway construction projects will take place. They use specialized equipment to gather data about the terrain, obstacles, and existing structures, which is then used to develop project plans and ensure that the construction aligns with the intended design. Surveyors typically have an associate’s degree in surveying or a related field and several years of experience in the industry.

5. Equipment Operator 

Equipment operators operate heavy machinery used in road and highway construction projects, such as bulldozers, excavators, and graders. They must have high skill and experience in operating this machinery safely and efficiently. Equipment operators typically have a high school diploma or GED and several years of experience in the industry.

6. Electrician

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in road and highway construction projects. They work with lighting systems, traffic signals, and other electrical components to ensure the safety and functionality of the roadway. Electricians typically have a high school diploma or GED and several years of experience in the industry.

7. Concrete Finisher

Concrete finishers are responsible for smoothing, leveling, and finishing concrete surfaces in road and highway construction projects. They use specialized tools and techniques to ensure the concrete surfaces are durable, smooth, and aesthetically pleasing. Concrete finishers typically have a high school diploma or GED and several years of experience in the industry.

8. Pavement Laying Operator

Pavement laying operators are responsible for operating asphalt pavers, machines that lay a smooth, even layer of asphalt on roadways. They must have high skill and experience in operating this machinery safely and efficiently. Pavement laying operators typically have a high school diploma or GED and several years of experience in the industry.

These eight jobs represent just a few of the many rewarding and high-paying road and highway construction opportunities. With the proper training, experience, and dedication, individuals can pursue successful careers in this dynamic and essential industry. As infrastructure needs continue to grow, the demand for skilled professionals in road and highway construction is expected to remain strong, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a challenging and financially rewarding career path.

This story was created using AI technology.

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