Asphalt paving is an essential component of constructing and maintaining roadways, driveways, and other types of pavement. Asphalt pavers are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery to lay asphalt and create smooth, durable surfaces.
In this blog, we will go over the job details of an asphalt paver. Including their salary, job outlook, job description, and examples of daily tasks.
What Does an Asphalt Paver Do?
Asphalt pavers are responsible for laying asphalt for new road construction, repairing existing roadways, and creating smooth surfaces for driveways, parking lots, and other types of pavement.
They operate heavy equipment, such as pavers, rollers, and asphalt distributors, to spread, level, and compact asphalt. They must work well in a team, follow instructions, and communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors.
Salary
“Asphalt Paver Operators in America make an average salary of $42,443 per year or $20 per hour. The top 10 percent makes over $72,000 annually, while the bottom 10 percent under $24,000 per year.” – Zipia.com
Job Outlook:
The job outlook for asphalt pavers is positive. The demand for new infrastructure and the need to repair and maintain existing infrastructure creates a constant need for skilled asphalt pavers.
As populations grow and urban areas expand, the demand for skilled construction workers, including asphalt pavers, is expected to increase. Additionally, as new technologies are developed, there may be a need for more skilled workers who can operate and maintain advanced equipment.
Daily Tasks
The daily tasks of an asphalt paver can vary depending on the specific job site and the type of project. However, some everyday tasks include:
- Preparing the job site: This may involve clearing the area of debris. Marking the location of the pavement and preparing the surface for the asphalt.
- Applying the asphalt: Asphalt pavers use heavy equipment to spread and level the asphalt, ensuring it is applied evenly and smoothly.
- Compacting the asphalt: Once the asphalt is applied, it must be compacted to ensure that it is solid and durable. Asphalt pavers use rollers and other equipment to pack the asphalt and create a smooth surface.
- Maintaining equipment: Asphalt pavers must ensure their equipment is in good working order. This may involve performing routine maintenance, making necessary repairs, and cleaning the equipment at the end of each day.
Reasons to Pursue a Career as an Asphalt Paver:
- High demand: As mentioned earlier, the job outlook for asphalt pavers is positive. With the growing need for new infrastructure and the maintenance of existing infrastructure. The demand for skilled asphalt pavers is likely to remain strong.
- Good pay: While the salary of an asphalt paver may vary depending on experience and location, it is generally considered a good-paying job. Additionally, with experience and advanced certifications, the salary can increase.
- Hands-on work: For those who enjoy working with their hands and being outdoors, a career as an asphalt paver can be a great choice. Asphalt pavers work on job sites and can often see the tangible results of their work at the end of each day.
Get Started IN Asphalt Paving
In conclusion, becoming an asphalt paver can be a rewarding and worthwhile career choice. With a positive job outlook, good pay, and hands-on work, it is a career that offers many benefits.
For those who are interested in pursuing this career, it is essential to gain experience and certifications to increase your earning potential and job opportunities.