Highway Maintenance Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of constant infrastructure development, the role of highway maintenance workers is more crucial than ever.

As transport networks expand and evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can maintain, repair, and improve our highways grows stronger.

But what does a highway maintenance worker job truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the specifics of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of highway maintenance,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable highway maintenance worker job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Highway Maintenance Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Highway Maintenance Workers perform a variety of tasks related to the construction, maintenance, repair, and cleaning of highways.

They often work in physically demanding conditions to ensure safe and smooth transportation for the public.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Performing general maintenance, repair, and construction work on highways, roads, bridges, and other related structures
• Operating heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, backhoes, and other construction equipment
• Performing routine inspections to identify and repair potential hazards, such as potholes, cracks, and damaged signage
• Removing debris, snow, or other obstructions from the roadway to ensure safe and smooth travel
• Installing and maintaining road signs, guardrails, and other road safety devices
• Assisting in traffic control during road construction or repair activities
• Collaborating with engineers, planners, and other professionals in the planning and execution of road projects
• Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards in all work activities
• Documenting completed work and maintaining records of maintenance and repair activities
• Responding to emergency situations, such as landslides, road accidents, and adverse weather conditions

 

Highway Maintenance Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Highway Maintenance Worker to join our team.

The ideal candidate will perform a variety of maintenance duties that include inspection, repair, and replacement of roads, highways, and other related infrastructure.

Highway Maintenance Worker responsibilities include identifying potential hazards, repairing damaged roads, performing snow removal operations, and carrying out preventative maintenance measures.

They should be well-versed with construction machinery, tools, and safety procedures.

 

Responsibilities

• Inspect, repair, and maintain highways, roads, and other related infrastructure
• Operate heavy machinery and hand tools
• Respond to emergency road situations, such as accidents or breakdowns
• Implement traffic control measures when necessary
• Remove snow, debris, and other obstructions from roads
• Carry out regular maintenance checks on machinery and equipment
• Record and report daily operations and maintenance activities
• Comply with local, state, and federal regulations concerning highway and road maintenance
• Participate in safety training and meetings
• Use proper safety gear at all times and follow established safety procedures

 

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Experience in highway or road maintenance, or related field
• Ability to operate heavy machinery and hand tools
• Knowledge of maintenance procedures for highways and roads
• Physical fitness and ability to perform demanding manual labor
• Strong understanding of safety regulations and procedures
• Excellent problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work in various weather conditions, and be on call for emergency situations
• Valid state driver’s license

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Highway Maintenance Worker
• Work Environment: This role requires outdoor work in various weather conditions and involves physical labor. The worker may be on call to respond to emergencies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Highway Maintenance Supervisor or Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $31,980 minimum to $59,720 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Highway Maintenance Worker Do?

Highway Maintenance Workers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of the nation’s roadways.

They are typically employed by local, state, or federal transportation departments or by private road construction companies.

The primary responsibility of a Highway Maintenance Worker is to maintain, repair, and clear roads and highways.

This can range from simple tasks, such as filling potholes, to more complex ones like repairing guardrails or removing debris from the roadway.

They are also responsible for keeping the road surfaces in good condition.

This includes applying materials like asphalt or concrete, grading road shoulders, and placing signage or traffic control devices.

In some cases, Highway Maintenance Workers may operate heavy machinery, such as bulldozers or graders, to perform their duties.

During the winter months, they are often tasked with snow and ice removal, using snowplows and other specialized equipment.

Ensuring safety is a key part of their job.

This involves setting up traffic diversions, installing safety barriers, and using warning signals during maintenance operations.

They are also responsible for inspecting the roadways, identifying potential hazards or needed repairs, and reporting their findings to a supervisor or manager.

 

Highway Maintenance Worker Qualifications and Skills

Highway Maintenance Workers are responsible for ensuring the safety and integrity of our roadways.

The skills and qualifications required for this role may include:

• Physical strength and stamina to carry out tasks such as lifting heavy objects, digging, and paving for extended periods.
• Proficiency in operating various machinery and tools involved in road construction and maintenance such as dump trucks, snowplows, and pavement breakers.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures to prevent accidents and ensure the wellbeing of both workers and the public.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, often in challenging weather conditions and during irregular hours, including nights and weekends.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify potential issues such as road damages, and determine the best methods for repair and prevention.
• Good communication skills to effectively coordinate with team members, supervisors, and other relevant authorities.
• Attention to detail to ensure tasks are completed correctly and safely, and that all safety measures are in place.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints and construction plans, as well as follow verbal and written instructions.
• Experience in basic maintenance tasks such as patching asphalt, filling potholes, and clearing debris from the roadway.

 

Highway Maintenance Worker Experience Requirements

Entry-level Highway Maintenance Workers usually have a high school diploma and some related work experience.

This can be gained through internships, part-time roles, or even through volunteer work in public works departments or local construction companies.

In addition to this, many employers prefer candidates who have undergone vocational training in highway maintenance or a related field.

Vocational training provides practical experience in tasks such as operating heavy machinery, basic road repair, and safety procedures.

Candidates with more than 2-3 years of experience are often sought after for their in-depth knowledge and proven expertise in highway maintenance work.

They would have gained hands-on experience in tasks such as identifying and repairing road hazards, operating and maintaining highway maintenance equipment, and following traffic control procedures.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience, having managed teams, coordinated work schedules, and overseen project budgets.

Such candidates would be suitable for supervisory roles within the highway maintenance sector.

In all roles, a valid driver’s license and the ability to work in all weather conditions are essential requirements.

In many cases, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) may be required, particularly for jobs that involve the operation of heavy machinery.

 

Highway Maintenance Worker Education and Training Requirements

Highway Maintenance Workers typically require a high school diploma or an equivalent education as a minimum requirement.

They usually learn their skills on the job.

However, some jobs require a commercial driver’s license and certain specific certifications, such as a flagger certification or safety certification.

Training in the use of heavy equipment, such as loaders, dump trucks and various other machinery is often necessary.

This training can be provided by the employer or through vocational schools and community colleges.

Some states and municipalities may also require Highway Maintenance Workers to complete a specific number of hours in traffic control training.

While a higher degree is not necessary, it could be beneficial for those seeking managerial or supervisory roles within the highway maintenance sector.

Additional training in traffic engineering, project management, or construction management may be beneficial for these roles.

Working knowledge of basic maintenance and repair, safety protocols, and traffic laws are vital for the role.

Continuing education is often encouraged to stay up-to-date with the latest safety regulations and equipment advancements.

 

Highway Maintenance Worker Salary Expectations

A Highway Maintenance Worker can expect to earn an average wage of $19.47 (USD) per hour.

The actual income can vary based on the level of experience, specific location, and the organization for which they work.

 

Highway Maintenance Worker Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Highway Maintenance Worker need?

While a high school diploma or equivalent is typically the only formal education needed, some employers may prefer candidates who have undergone vocational training.

A Highway Maintenance Worker often requires a commercial driver’s license to operate heavy equipment.

Also, the worker must have knowledge of safety practices and procedures for working in traffic areas.

 

What are the physical demands of a Highway Maintenance Worker job?

Highway Maintenance Workers are often required to work outdoors in all weather conditions, and the job can be physically demanding.

Tasks may involve lifting heavy objects, operating heavy machinery, and standing or walking for long periods.

Hence, physical stamina and strength are crucial for this role.

 

What skills are important for a Highway Maintenance Worker?

Highway Maintenance Workers should have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for operating machinery and handling tools.

They should also have a good understanding of safety regulations and procedures.

Being able to work as part of a team, problem-solving skills, and the ability to follow instructions are also important.

 

What are the daily duties of a Highway Maintenance Worker?

A Highway Maintenance Worker’s day typically involves repairing highways, roads, and other transportation structures.

They may repair potholes, install road signs, clean up accident sites, and assist in road construction projects.

They also perform routine checks on equipment to ensure it is in working order.

Additionally, they may be called upon to respond to emergencies or adverse weather conditions to clear roads and make them safe for travel.

 

Is it difficult to find qualified Highway Maintenance Workers?

The demand for Highway Maintenance Workers can vary depending on the area and season.

In regions with harsh winters, there is often a higher demand for workers to help with snow removal and road maintenance.

However, the job can be physically demanding and requires work in all weather conditions, which can make it more challenging to find qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve taken you on a journey behind the scenes of being a highway maintenance worker.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about filling potholes.

It’s about ensuring safety and efficiency on our roads, one repair at a time.

With our go-to highway maintenance worker job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into this crucial role.

But why not go further?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards creating detailed job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Always remember:

Every repair you make contributes to a bigger picture.

Let’s build safer roads. Together.

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