Ultimately, salaries for highway construction workers depend on prevailing local wages and the cost of living in an area. Union road construction jobs, for instance, tend to pay more than nonunion positions.
The highest paid road construction employees earn $1135, while the lowest-paid laborers receive $394. On average, junior-level construction workers make about $31,000 and senior-level workers earn about $41,500.
There are several paths to becoming a road construction worker, including an apprenticeship. These programs typically include on-the-job training, while attending school for part of the year to learn subjects at a higher level. For example, you might start as a ganger and work your way up to become an earthmoving machinery operator or drainlayer after completing the course.
Road construction workers are responsible for the construction, repair and maintenance of roads. They are often employed by state and local government agencies, as well as private construction firms.
They are required to have a high level of physical fitness and strength, as they work outside and in all weather conditions. They also wear hardhats and protective gear to keep them safe.
Road construction workers often spend days away from home, and they travel often on company vehicles. They must also be able to stand for long periods of time and use heavy equipment. Depending on the employer, they may be expected to work overtime.
