Highway Maintenance Workers: The Guardians of Our Roads

Have you ever wondered who maintains the highway in the middle of the night during a snowstorm or rain? Well, it is the highway maintenance workers who keep our roads safe and passable at all times. They are responsible for a range of tasks, from repairing potholes to clearing debris after a storm, and keeping the roadways smooth for drivers.

What is Highway Maintenance Work?

Highway maintenance workers are the unsung heroes who ensure that our roads are always in good condition. These workers need to be skilled in various areas, including maintenance, repair, and construction of roads, highways, and bridges. They work in all kinds of weather conditions and carry out their duties 24/7. Some of the tasks they may be responsible for include:

• Repairing potholes and cracks on the roadways.
• Sanding and salting the roadways during winter conditions.
• Mowing grass along the highways and roadsides
• Cleaning up debris after an accident or storm.
• Directing traffic during construction zones.

Training and Education for Highway Maintenance Workers

Although completion of high school or GED is usually the minimum educational requirement, several employers prefer those with some formal training. Community colleges and technical schools offer programs that provide relevant certifications such as Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or training in highway maintenance. These programs combine classroom training and practical application of tools and equipment that the workers will use on the job. Some on-the-job training is usually provided, which emphasizes the work’s technicalities and safety procedures. Additionally, workers may also acquire relevant certifications for specific tasks, such as handling hazardous materials.

Progression and Advancement for Highway Maintenance Workers

Once they start working, highway maintenance workers may receive promotions by demonstrating their abilities, performing well, and taking on additional responsibilities. For example, someone who starts as a pothole repairer may advance to a crew leader position, responsible for supervising teams that carry out more significant tasks. In contrast, workers who excel in other technical areas may progress to specific job-role specialists. They may be Hopkins System Technicians, Bridge Maintenance Worker, or upgrade to supervisory roles.

How to Get Into the Field

If you are interested in becoming a highway maintenance worker, there are various ways to get into the field. While some employers may require formal training and certification, others may provide on-the-job training and GEDs or High School Diplomas. It is important to maintain high levels of physical strength to undertake some of the field’s rigorous activities, including lifting heavy equipment and bending and squatting. Effective hand-eye coordination and a keen eye for detail are also necessary.

Highway maintenance workers are integral to the safety and maintenance of our roads. Every driver owes a debt of gratitude for their service if we have safe and well-maintained roads. Overall, a career as a highway maintenance worker can be an excellent opportunity for those willing to work hard, learn new skills, and progress in the field.

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Highway maintenance workers are responsible for the upkeep and repair of roads and highways, including snow removal, pothole repair, and pavement marking. According to the salary data provided, the US National Average annual salary for highway maintenance workers ranges from $34,028.80 at the entry level to $59,592.00 at the highest level (Level 06). The national average salary for all levels of highway maintenance workers is $49,566.40.

Unionization can have an impact on the salary of highway maintenance workers, with a national average salary of $53,518.40 for all levels of workers in a union compared to $39,540.80 for non-union workers.

In Illinois, highway maintenance workers can expect to earn a higher average salary of $62,067.20 per year, while in Louisiana, the average non-union salary for this occupation is $29,244.80.

Overall, the data suggests that unionization can have a positive impact on the salary of highway maintenance workers. However, geographic location can also play a significant role in salary disparities for this occupation.

Note: The hourly average salary is calculated based on a 40 hour work week.