|
 |
| Paving, Surfacing, and
Tamping Equipment Operators |
| |
| Employment Increase: |
48% |
| People In Field: |
107,000 |
| Average Salary: |
$30,450 |
| Qualifications: |
High School, Training |
| |
Nature of the Work:
People who work as paving, surfacing, and tamping
equipment operators are part of the teams that keep
roadways, parking lots, and airport runways smooth and safe. They
are there at the beginning, the middle, and the end of the
construction process, preparing the ground, surfacing it,
and checking it. They also come back later when it's time
for repaving, repairs, or expansions.
Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
A driver's license and a high school diploma are
generally necessary for people interested in this field. Many of the
skills required can be learned on the job, but applicants must
be able to read and understand training manuals. Passing a
civil service exam is often necessary. People who drive heavy
trucks require special drivers' licenses. In many states, people
who operate paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment belong
to unions.
Job Outlook:
Employment for construction occupations is expected
to grow as fast as average for all industries. It is expected that
by 2005, there will be approximately 107,000 paving,
surfacing, and tamping equipment operators. Employment depends
on the levels of construction. Growth is expected to increase
due to highway, bridge, and street repair, as well as repairs
to prevent deterioration of the country's highways and
bridges. In places where new growth and construction are
limited, most of the road work being done is limited to
necessary maintenance. In places where growth is booming, demand
for people with the skills to build roads is strong.
Sources of Additional Information:
For more information on construction occupations,
contact:
International Union of Operating Engineers
1125 Seventeenth St. NW
Washington, DC 20036
National Asphalt Pavement Association
NAPA Building
5100 Forbes Blvd.
Lanham, MD 20706-4413
You can also contact the town, city, or county
highway department listed in your local telephone directory.
|
| |
| Back to Career Listings |
| |
|
