Road Maintenance Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]
In the era of advanced infrastructure, the importance of road maintenance workers has never been more crucial.
As our roadways continue to expand and evolve, there’s a growing demand for skilled individuals who can maintain, repair, and ensure the safety of our transportation networks.
But what does a road maintenance worker job truly entail?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the ins and outs of this role,
- A hiring manager looking to define the perfect candidate,
- Or simply interested in the daily operations of road maintenance,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable road maintenance worker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive straight into it.
Road Maintenance Worker Duties and Responsibilities
Road Maintenance Workers perform a variety of tasks to ensure that roads are safe and well-maintained.
They often work with heavy machinery and tools, work in various weather conditions and may have irregular hours, including nights and weekends, based on the needs of their department or agency.
The duties and responsibilities of Road Maintenance Workers include:
- Inspecting roadways for signs of wear and damage
- Performing routine maintenance tasks such as filling potholes, sealing cracks, and clearing debris from the road
- Operating heavy machinery and equipment, such as graders, tractors, and rollers, to repair and maintain road surfaces
- Assisting in the construction of new roads, including grading and paving
- Setting up traffic control devices and directing traffic around work zones
- Applying chemicals, salt, or sand to icy roads to improve traction
- Performing landscaping tasks, such as mowing grass on road shoulders and maintaining roadside vegetation
- Responding to emergency situations, such as road accidents or extreme weather conditions, to assist with cleanup and road repairs
- Maintaining accurate records of work performed and materials used
- Adhering to safety procedures and regulations at all times to ensure a safe working environment
Road Maintenance Worker Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a dedicated Road Maintenance Worker to join our team.
The responsibilities of the Road Maintenance Worker include performing routine maintenance tasks on roads, inspecting roads for damage or wear, and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed.
The ideal candidate is physically fit, has a good understanding of road construction and maintenance equipment, and is committed to maintaining safe and high-quality roads.
Responsibilities
- Performing regular maintenance on roads, including patching potholes, sealing cracks, and applying asphalt.
- Inspecting roads for any signs of wear or damage.
- Operating and maintaining road construction and maintenance equipment.
- Ensuring that all safety protocols and standards are followed.
- Assisting with road construction projects as needed.
- Clearing debris and snow from roads and pathways.
- Directing traffic around work sites.
- Regularly reporting any issues or hazards spotted during inspections.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in road maintenance or a similar role.
- Familiarity with road construction and maintenance equipment.
- Physically fit and able to perform strenuous labor for extended periods.
- Excellent understanding of safety protocols in road construction and maintenance.
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to work in various weather conditions.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- A valid driver’s license may be required.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Road Maintenance Worker
- Work Environment: Field work, often in various weather conditions. Includes physical labor and operation of heavy equipment.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Road Maintenance Supervisor.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $50,000 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 Road Maintenance Worker Do?
Road Maintenance Workers are essential for maintaining and repairing roads in cities, towns, and rural areas.
Their role often extends to highways, bridges, tunnels, and other related structures.
They patch up potholes, repair broken or eroded sections of road, and replace aging or damaged infrastructure.
This might involve laying asphalt or concrete, or using heavy machinery to smooth out the road surface.
Road Maintenance Workers also take part in winter road maintenance, which includes plowing snow and spreading salt to prevent ice formation.
They often work closely with traffic management personnel to ensure that their work does not disrupt the flow of traffic unduly.
Their role may also involve setting up traffic diversion signs and barriers during road construction or repair works.
In addition, they may inspect roads and related structures for damage, hazard or wear and tear, reporting any issues to higher authorities for necessary action.
Safety is a key aspect of their job as they work in a high-risk environment.
Therefore, they strictly follow safety guidelines and use protective gear to minimize the risk of accidents.
Their role may also extend to maintaining roadside features, such as guardrails, highway markers, and culverts.
In rural areas, they may also be involved in maintaining unsealed roads or tracks.
Their work is physically demanding and may require working in unfavorable weather conditions or during unsociable hours including nights and weekends.
Road Maintenance Worker Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Road Maintenance Worker should have the skills and qualifications that correspond to the job role, including:
- Physical stamina and strength to manage heavy machinery and equipment, and perform tasks that may require prolonged standing, walking, lifting, or bending.
- Experience in operating a variety of tools and machinery used in road maintenance such as excavators, loaders, graders, and rollers.
- Knowledge of safety procedures and ability to ensure safety standards are met while performing various tasks on public roads.
- Technical skills for the repair and maintenance of public roads, including filling potholes, replacing signs, clearing debris, and trimming overhanging trees.
- Ability to work in varying weather conditions, as road maintenance work often continues in rain, heat, or cold.
- Good communication skills to effectively interact with team members and public as necessary during roadworks.
- Problem-solving skills to quickly assess and resolve any issues that may arise during road maintenance tasks.
- Understanding of traffic control techniques and ability to set up proper traffic diversions during roadworks for ensuring safety of public and road workers.
Road Maintenance Worker Experience Requirements
Entry-level Road Maintenance Workers are often required to have at least 1-2 years of hands-on experience, usually obtained through an apprenticeship or similar program.
This experience could also be gained through working in related roles such as Construction Laborer, Landscape Worker, or General Laborer, where they learn the basics of operating heavy machinery, adhering to safety protocols, and performing maintenance tasks.
Candidates with 3-5 years of experience are usually considered skilled Road Maintenance Workers.
They may have developed specialized skills, such as asphalt paving, snow removal, or traffic control management.
They may also have experience in operating more complex heavy machinery, and are often responsible for performing more advanced maintenance tasks.
Those with over 5 years of experience may be considered for supervisory or managerial roles within road maintenance.
These individuals likely have extensive experience in all aspects of road maintenance and have demonstrated leadership abilities.
They may also have additional certifications or qualifications, such as a Commercial Driver’s License or a certification in Hazardous Materials Handling.
Road Maintenance Worker Education and Training Requirements
Road Maintenance Workers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent as a basic qualification.
They receive on-the-job training to learn the necessary skills needed for the role.
This may involve learning how to operate heavy equipment, handling tools, road surface repair techniques, traffic control protocols, and safety procedures.
While not mandatory, having a commercial driver’s license (CDL) can be advantageous as some road maintenance tasks involve driving large vehicles or heavy machinery.
Some workers may also opt to complete vocational training programs in highway maintenance or a related field.
These programs offer more in-depth knowledge about road construction, drainage systems, blueprint reading, and environmental regulations.
Certifications from recognized bodies such as the American Public Works Association (APWA) can demonstrate a worker’s commitment to the profession and enhance job prospects.
Additionally, a good understanding of basic math, physical fitness, and the ability to work in various weather conditions are also critical requirements for this role.
Road Maintenance Worker Salary Expectations
The average wage for a Road Maintenance Worker is $19.06 (USD) per hour.
However, this may vary based on experience, the level of expertise, geographical location, and the employer’s budget or pay scale.
Yearly, a Road Maintenance Worker can expect to earn an average salary of around $39,650 (USD).
Road Maintenance Worker Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Road Maintenance Worker need?
A Road Maintenance Worker should have good physical stamina and strength as the job often requires heavy lifting and long hours of physical labor.
They should also have good dexterity and coordination for using various tools and machinery.
Ability to follow safety regulations is crucial, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
What qualifications does a Road Maintenance Worker need?
While a degree is not usually required for a Road Maintenance Worker, a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred.
On-the-job training is usually provided, but previous experience in construction, maintenance, or related field can be advantageous.
Depending on the specific role and location, certain licenses or certifications (such as a Commercial Driver’s License) may be required.
What should you look for in a Road Maintenance Worker resume?
When reviewing a Road Maintenance Worker’s resume, pay attention to their previous experience in road work or maintenance, as well as any relevant certifications or licenses they may hold.
Look for skills like physical stamina, attention to detail, and ability to operate heavy machinery.
Any experience working in a team or in harsh weather conditions can also be a plus.
What qualities make a good Road Maintenance Worker?
A good Road Maintenance Worker is reliable, with a strong work ethic and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks.
They should be detail-oriented, ensuring that all maintenance and repairs are done to a high standard.
They should also be safety-conscious, adhering strictly to all safety protocols and procedures.
What are the daily duties of a Road Maintenance Worker?
A Road Maintenance Worker’s daily duties may vary depending on the specific tasks assigned.
However, they often involve inspecting roads for damage, performing routine maintenance like filling potholes, clearing debris from roads, and setting up traffic control devices.
They may also operate heavy machinery, repair guardrails, and assist in major road construction projects.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we’ve delved into the core of what it truly means to be a road maintenance worker.
Surprised?
It’s not just about filling potholes.
It’s about paving the path for a safer, smoother future, one road repair at a time.
With our top-notch road maintenance worker job description template and real-life examples, you’re well-prepared to take your next step.
But why halt the journey?
Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your tool to creating detailed job listings or perfecting your resume to the tee.
Keep in mind:
Every road repair is a part of a bigger mission.
Let’s create that future. Together.
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