Paver Operator

Key Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate the asphalt paver at a consistent speed and heading to ensure a seamless mat; maintain a constant flow of material into the hopper and across the screed.
• Utilize and troubleshoot automated grade and slope control systems to ensure the project meets engineered specifications.
• Lead the coordination of haul trucks to ensure 'hot stop' free paving and proper exchange between the truck and the paver or Material Transfer Vehicle (MTV).
• Monitor and adjust screed heat, vibratory settings, and crown/extender controls to eliminate defects like tearing, segregation, or 'screed rise.'
• Continuously monitor the temperature and texture of the asphalt; identify and immediately correct issues such as 'shadowing' or inconsistent depth.
• Calculate and monitor material yield throughout the shift to ensure project profitability and adherence to design quantities.
• Serve as a mentor to junior operators, providing guidance on best practices for machine maintenance and paving techniques.
• Perform rigorous daily pre- and post-shift inspections; document all mechanical issues and perform minor field repairs or preventative maintenance (greasing, cleaning, fluid checks).
• Identify and eliminate safety hazards on the move; ensure all crew members are operating within safe zones relative to the paver and haul trucks.
• Oversee the end-of-day cleaning of the paver (shoveling out the hopper, spraying down with release agents) to ensure the machine is ready for the next shift.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience.
• Work Experience: 3+ years of Heavy Equipment Operations, specifically in Asphalt Paving.
• Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities: OSHA compliance and regulations; operational expertise (asphalt mix behavior); mechanical and technical aptitude; troubleshooting; detail oriented; time management; effective communication (written and spoken).

Additional Details

• Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. for plant maintenance and equipment servicing. Required to bend, stoop, climb, and reach. Must have good depth perception with or without seeing aid for distances up to 150 feet. Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls.
• Working Conditions: All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all weather conditions, cold, wet, dry and dusty. Must be able to work in areas where noise levels are up to 85 dBs.

Pay

The hiring range for this position is $27 - $36 exclusive of benefits or bonuses (discretionary and non-discretionary). The offered base compensation will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, business need, market conditions, proficiencies, skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Health Care Reimbursement Account
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Account
• Wellness Programs
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Paid Holidays and Vacation
• 401(k) with Company matching
• Pension

About the Role

The Paver Equipment Operator II is a skilled role responsible for the precision operation of asphalt paving machinery to spread and level material on highways, streets, and commercial projects. This individual acts as a subject matter expert on the paving crew, ensuring that the asphalt mat meets strict density, grade, and smoothness specifications. In addition to advanced machine operation, the Paver Equipment Operator II is responsible for troubleshooting complex equipment issues, leading pre-shift safety inspections, and providing on-the-job training to junior operators. This role requires a 'Guardian Angel' safety mindset, high-level situational awareness, and the ability to make independent decisions that impact the quality and efficiency of the entire paving operation.