Screed Operator

Key Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate and adjust the screed to control the width, depth, and crown of the asphalt mat.
• Utilize and troubleshoot automated systems, including sonic sensors, 3D GPS grade control, and laser leveling tools to ensure sub-millimeter accuracy.
• Cookordinate with the Paver Operator to regulate the flow of material from the hopper to the augers, maintaining a consistent 'head of material' in front of the screed.
• Manually or electronically adjust screed extensions and cut-off shoes to adapt to varying road widths and transitions.
• Continuously monitor the asphalt mat for defects such as tearing, segregation, or 'screed marks,' and make immediate adjustments to heat, vibration, or speed to correct issues.
• Perform real-time calculations of material yields and spread rates to ensure project volumes align with engineering estimates.
• Maintain screed plate temperatures to prevent material from sticking and to ensure proper compaction conditions.
• Conduct thorough inspections of the screed unit, checking hydraulic lines, heating elements, and electronic sensors for wear or damage.
• Perform daily cleaning and lubrication of the screed, including the removal of asphalt buildup (using citrus-based cleaners or approved agents) to maintain mechanical integrity.
• Adhere to all OSHA and Martin Marietta safety protocols.
• Proactively identify hazards related to moving traffic and heavy machinery, ensuring the safety of the ground crew.
• Serve as a mentor to junior operators, providing on-the-job training on advanced paving techniques and equipment troubleshooting.
• Communicate via radio or hand signals with the Paver Operator and truck drivers to ensure a continuous, non-stop paving operation (pave-by-link).
• Maintain accurate daily logs of material usage, equipment hours, and any site-specific challenges for the Foreman.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience.
• Work Experience: 3+ years of Heavy Equipment Operation specifically in Asphalt Paving, with at least 2 years focused on Screed Operation.
• Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities: OSHA compliance and regulations, operational expertise (asphalt mix behavior), mechanical aptitude, 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 be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders. Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. Good depth perception with or without seeing aid for distances up to 150 feet.
• 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.
• Hiring Range: $32 - $41 exclusive of benefits or bonuses (discretionary and non-discretionary).
• Benefits: Competitive benefits package including medical, dental and vision coverage; prescription drug coverage; health savings accounts; flexible spending accounts; life, AD&D and disability insurance; 401(k) with a company match and an employer-funded defined benefit pension plan. Other benefits include paid time off, paid holidays, education/tuition assistance, an employee discount program, adoption assistance, wellness programs and more.