Highway Building Careers

HIGHWAY BUILDING CAREERS

Institute Research Number 147 ISBN 1-58511-147-3

HIGHWAY BUILDING CAREERS WORKING TO KEEP AMERICA CONNECTED Excellent Earnings Operating Heavy Machinery and Managing Huge Construction Projects IN THE EARLY DAYS OF US HISTORY, NOT ONLY WAS IT INCONVENIENT AND

dangerous to travel between communities, it was often impossible. Roads were little more than dirt trails, or in cities they might be made of cobblestone – far from comfortable for someone riding a horse or in a coach. But as pioneers continued to explore from East to West and new towns and cities were established, the desire for safe, durable, and convenient roads grew. Modes of transportation changed; as technology developed, traveling by horse and wagon was no longer the only alternative to trains. The 20th century saw the meteoric rise of the personal automobile from a luxury item owned only by the wealthy to a standard necessity of daily life for many people. As cars improved and became economically feasible for more people, the demand for better roads increased as well. After all, people did not want to make a large investment in this type of machine, only to have the vehicle damaged when travelling on unstable dirt roads or punishing cobblestones. Weather conditions could cause problems for travelers, such as rain turning roads to muddy trails that could sink a car. Travelers wanted a more stable, durable kind of road that would not easily succumb to hazards of weather. Asphalt, concrete and steel were all found to have the strength and durability required to withstand the pressure of tons of cars and trucks driving over them. But even though materials technology has advanced considerably over the last 50 years, roads are not indestructible. What’s more, communities continue to change and grow, with road infrastructure needing changes, as well. Roads need to be widened and re-routed, and new roads are built 2

to connect communities that previously didn’t exist. Even roads that are adequate in terms of size and direction need ongoing maintenance to prevent their ultimate collapse. Because roads are exposed to weather conditions – extreme heat, cold, intense winds, and heavy rainfall, snow and ice – compounded by the normal wear and tear of daily traffic, highway departments and road construction crews across the country, from Florida to Alaska, work year-round to repair and replace the roads that have become so vital to daily life. There are numerous avenues to the highway industry work life. The majority of jobs will take place on a job site and will involve, directly or indirectly, working with large machinery. Projects can be as small as filling in cracks and potholes on a weather-worn road and as major as building an entirely new freeway. The work may take place at the height of summer heat or during frosty winter days. But whether the project is large or small, every assignment can give highway workers the satisfaction of knowing they play a pivotal role in keeping the extended network of American highways up and running. Roads are a critical part of life today, either connecting communities within large urban areas or connecting rural areas with each other and with the urban areas. And where there are roads, there will be workers needed to keep those roads accessible and safe.

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YOU CAN START EXPLORING THIS CAREER TODAY IF A CAREER IN THE HIGHWAY INDUSTRY SOUNDS LIKE A GOOD ROAD FOR YOU, THERE

are many things you can do, even if you’re still in school. Because many jobs in road construction and maintenance involve long hours outdoors, it’s important to consider your overall health and stamina. Being in good physical shape for the challenges of this kind of work is vital to your future success, both in terms of the demands of the work itself and the outdoor conditions that can affect your overall health. Physical activity, both aerobic and strength training, would be valuable. There are many professional associations that can provide information about the different jobs available. Calling, writing, or visiting their Internet sites will not only give you valuable and timely career information, but provide you with contacts if you decide to pursue this career. Each state has a Department of Transportation. Often counties and cities will have road work departments as well. Contact your local DOT, county or city government for information about jobs and job requirements, as well as current projects in your area. Observing construction and maintenance work as it happens will give you a feel for the work involved. Some highway departments will hire students as interns or entry-level summer employees for highway projects. The work at that level is not usually very difficult, but summer jobs in road construction do provide valuable experience as well as the opportunity to meet and talk with people who perform a variety of tasks in this career.

HISTORY OF THIS CAREER IN AMERICA TODAY, THERE ARE MILLIONS OF MILES OF PAVED ROADS AND

highways. It is one of the most extensive road systems in the world, and it is the primary form of travel for social, work, shipping and business needs. It’s hard to imagine the country without its complex system of roads, yet a century ago most of these roads did not exist. When the automobile began to draw consumer interest at the beginning of the 20th century, the public demand for better roads began to increase. Until then, rough dirt roads or cobblestone streets within cities easily sufficed for travel by foot or horse. Anyone wishing to travel more quickly than that was likely to take a train. But the increasing popularity of cars as a means of personal transportation quickly caught on, and the need to create roads that were smoother, sturdier, and less likely to damage the relatively delicate vehicles was clear. In the late 19th century, a 4

Scottish engineer developed the first process, called macadam, for hardening road surfaces. This was the forerunner to the later development of asphalt and concrete for creating durable roads. In 1916, the US government passed into law the first Federal-Aid Road Act. This act created a new government bureau, the Bureau of Public Roads (the forerunner of today’s Federal Highway Administration), which was given $75 million to subsidize half of a state’s cost to build highways. This was a large and somewhat controversial amount of money at the time; remember, in 1916 there were nearly 21 million horses compared to less than 4 million cars and trucks. It wasn’t until after World War I that road building really began to take off, however. The Depression of the 1930s slowed construction down, but didn’t stop it, and continuing employment for laborers in this field became one of the growth industries as the country struggled its way out of the financial depths and into the more prosperous 1940s. Even while the Depression was causing economic despair across the country, federal government agencies began drafting the first plans for a national system of road works, which would later be developed as the Interstate system. In 1956 President Eisenhower signed a bill authorizing the beginning construction of the Interstate system first envisioned in the 1930s. It took nearly 40 years to complete, with the final piece finished in 1990. But by that time, the US had an unparalleled system of moving people back and forth throughout the country. But it wasn’t just Interstates that were being developed during the last half of the 20th century. As the Federal Highway Administration developed and grew, each state developed its own Department of Transportation. The states were able to raise money, both from the federal government and from public bonds, to build highways and local streets within each state. Eventually counties and cities joined the building process, planning and building roads that filled in gaps left by larger projects run by state and federal transportation agencies. From narrow rural roads to multi-lane freeways, Americans enjoyed an ability they’d never had in previous decades: the ability to safely and quickly travel between two points, on their own schedule and at their own pace, in comfort. With every step of development of road construction and technology came new opportunities for careers. From the most basic labor of digging ditches to the new technology of asphalt to the advent of heavy machinery, new types and increasing numbers of jobs opened up for skilled and unskilled workers. As what were once new roads became older 5

and worn down, road maintenance became as important as road construction. As labor unions formed that made working conditions safer and compensation more equitable, the highway construction industry became more and more important as a prominent employer for millions of Americans. Today, the Federal government still finances almost 90 percent of all major highway projects. Cities, counties and states are responsible for finding funding for small roads. Roads continue to be built in record numbers, and they continue to need maintenance. Through good economic times and bad, roads are vitally important to economic and personal life, and that doesn’t appear to be something that will change in the near future.

WHERE YOU WILL WORK ROADS AND HIGHWAYS ARE ALWAYS OUTDOORS, AND WITH FEW EXCEPTIONS,

workers in this industry will spend nearly all of their work hours outdoors as well. Some of the planning and training hours may be in offices of the general or sub contractors, but the vast majority of time will be spent at the job site, since that’s where the vast majority of the work is. The job site can be anywhere – city, country, mountains, coastal areas, deserts or forests. Wherever a road is needed, or where road maintenance is needed, is where the worker will be. This may mean that employees will have to travel great distances to work. Sometimes they will need to stay in temporary housing, which may or may not be provided by the employer, when the job site is far enough from home that commuting isn’t possible. Some workers will travel from city to city, following jobs all around the US. Employees of city or county highway departments will be more limited geographically, traveling only within their own region. However, the availability for those jobs is limited compared to the jobs available for workers who are willing to be flexible about their locale. Those who work outdoors will be subject to every region’s seasons. Road work occurs year round nearly everywhere, except in some of the northern climates, where asphalt can’t be poured during colder weather. But even in those regions, excavation and repair work can still take place. Highway workers can be seen working under a burning sun, on the coldest days of winter and under a pouring rain. Because job prospects in your home town may be limited, you may have to consider jobs in other towns or states where larger projects are being done and employment opportunities are greater. 6

Supervisory level workers will have more opportunity to step in out of the weather, although the majority of their work is done outdoors as well. Many supervisors will visit the home office for frequent consultation, and on longer projects a trailer will be set up on site to serve as the supervisor’s headquarters. The trailer will usually offer some relief from the weather outside, as well as telephone and computers for keeping in touch with the home office. Supervisors need to have steady communication with crews at the job site, so they will be spending several hours each day inspecting the work being done and going over plans with key personnel. If supervisors are overseeing several smaller projects, they may spend many hours each week traveling between job sites. Workers who run the heavy machinery will spend most of their time outdoors, but some of the newer equipment has enclosed driver’s cabs with heat or air conditioning. Such enclosed units also offer additional protection against flying debris and the intense noise level that often requires the use of earplugs.

THE WORK YOU WILL DO THERE ARE MANY KINDS OF JOBS IN THE ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

industry. Even as new technological advances have created heavy machinery that has replaced the need for many manual labor positions, the machines don’t run themselves. Building or repairing a highway still takes large numbers of people to do the work. One of the advantages of this type of career is that many of the skills carry from job to job, meaning that workers who handle one aspect of road construction can carry those skills into other areas of construction and maintenance, which allows them to take advantage of different kinds of job opportunities. For the purposes of this report, the positions described start at entry level and stop just before the level of civil engineers. There is a different report on careers in civil engineering.

Construction Laborers This is the most basic entry level of construction jobs, suited for someone with interest but no specific skills. Most of the training takes place on the job site, assisted and instructed by more experienced workers or supervisors. It could be described as being a “jack of all trades,” as laborers tend to move from one task to another, wherever they are needed.

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Laborers assist in preparation tasks, such as setting up barricades, signs and warning lights, as well as helping coordinate traffic flow by working in teams with “Slow/Stop” signs. They may erect scaffolding if it’s needed, dig ditches, prepare forms for and help spread concrete. Laborers with more experience may be asked to operate forklifts, power shovels, cement mixers, front loaders, ditchdiggers and surveying equipment. Some may even assist with demolition and explosives, such as when rock needs to be blasted through to create a roadway. They may use jackhammers to break up existing pavement, then assist in preparing the site for re-pavement. They may be asked to run errands within the job site. When the job is done, they are usually the last to leave, as they will be expected to clear out job debris and pile up rubble, clean and examine tools for possible repair, and pack and remove all equipment and tools. Since many of these tasks are similar in different kinds of construction work, laborers may work on various types of construction projects, not just road construction. Or if they are municipal maintenance employees, they may work not only on repairing roads, but also parking lots, public tennis courts or even airport runways as well.

Equipment Operators (Operating Engineers) These positions are critical to the core function of the road construction crew. The development of heavy machinery has allowed far more rapid growth of road projects than would have been feasible if done mostly by hand or by small machinery. As the machines become more complex, more training and education are required for the operators, but in the long run, the process of building a road has become smoother and easier. Equipment operators will work with a large variety of heavy machinery, including cranes, bulldozers, dump trucks, tractors, hoist and winches, graders, scrapers, loaders, concrete and asphalt pavers and tamping equipment. The work they do will involve all aspects of a project, from clearing the land, excavating the road area, removal of debris, smoothing the gravel bed, preparing the site, placement of any support structures such as culverts or footings, pouring the asphalt, rolling it smooth, painting the stripes, hauling additional materials such as road signs and stop lights, and even landscaping the roadsides. With all types of equipment, the operators will need to be well-trained in the machine’s operation and able to maneuver in tight or rocky spaces. Operators will be knowledgeable in the machine’s overall performance, not just how to operate it, but in order to troubleshoot potential problems. Cleaning, fueling and maintenance are part of the operator’s work as well. 8

They may be responsible for some manual loading or unloading, and they will probably be expected to keep accurate records of work done. As technology continues to change, equipment operators may need to update their education by taking additional vocational courses offered through vocational schools, machinery manufacturers, or unions.

Highway Maintenance Workers The duties performed by highway maintenance workers may vary from city to city, or state to state. Many of the jobs performed in this career are similar to those in road construction positions, and it’s not uncommon to see maintenance and construction workers going back and forth between the two types of work. In general, maintenance workers primarily focus on the maintenance and repair of road surfaces in specific geographic areas. Roads are in a constant state of decline, as weather, continual traffic, and in some cases, erosion take their toll. Along with the actual road work, maintenance includes any easements, shoulders, ditches, bridges, signs and traffic lights, road stripes, guard rails and drainage systems. All of these areas have a direct impact on the overall quality of the road itself, and so they too must be repaired and maintained on a regular basis. Workers patch and repair cracks and potholes, reseal road surfaces, grind the pavement to increase friction, repair dented or broken signs and rails, posts and supports. They also monitor drainage systems to make sure they’re functioning adequately, reporting and repairing problems if they’re not. During summer months they may drive large mowers to keep weeds cut low to the ground, improving roadside visibility. They may remove unwanted trees and bushes, or remove overhanging branches that can cause car damage or accidents. In winter climates, they may install snow fences to prevent snow drifting on highways. They operate snow removal equipment, clearing roads of snow and ice during the winter months, as well as operating sanding or salting machinery that helps reduce slippery road conditions.

Ironworkers For road work involving bridges or tunnels, ironworkers

may be brought onto the job. Ironworkers do not focus only on road construction, since not all roadwork requires their skills. However, the skills they bring to constructing large structures with iron and steel are essential on road projects involving bridges or tunnels. The primary work done by ironworkers for bridges and tunnels is rigging and reinforcing, although some bridge projects may need their skills for ornamental ironwork as well.

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An ironworker’s job begins by assembling the steel frames, cranes and derricks they will need to complete their work. On large projects, this can be time-consuming and potentially dangerous, requiring the worker to use a variety of safety objects like safety nets, belts, helmets and goggles. Once the rigging is set, the foundation work of creating footings, piles and caissons begins. Reinforcing ironworkers, also known as rodmen, place reinforcing rods (or sometimes steel mesh) in concrete forms before the concrete is formed. When that is completed, the steel framework of the structure is erected, often using cranes to lift the massive steel into place. After checking to see that the structure is level and positioned carefully, the steel is bolted or welded into its final position. If there is to be any ornamental work, such as stairs, doorways or gates, lamp posts, or decorative steelwork, it will be done at the end of the ironwork. The work life of an ironworker can be somewhat sporadic, since they are often working outdoors at great heights and weather can make such work unsafe.

Construction Electricians Like ironworkers, construction electricians rarely make a career working only on road construction projects. Their role in the highway industry is usually related to street lights, stop lights, electronic highway information signs, and any electronic equipment for bridges. They are hired by the construction manager to implement the necessary electrical wiring, circuits, signal devices, lights and panel boards. They are responsible for making sure all their work conforms to rigorous electrical codes, including any city and state codes as well as the National Electrical Code.

Managers Construction managers have a wide range of

responsibilities, which vary from job to job, as does their type of employer. Some managers are municipal employees, some are employed by general contractors, and some are independent consultants hired to handle a specific project rather than on permanent staff of a single employer. They may go by different job titles, such as: Project Manager General Contractor Contract Manager Typical duties of a construction manager would include managing and scheduling all phases of a large construction project, monitoring each step to make sure it follows the engineer’s plans and meets all relevant city and 10

state codes. Depending on the size of the project, construction managers may have several crew supervisors or field engineers who report to them. Managers determine the order of each different phase of the project and every individual task, and schedule the appropriate time frames. Then they estimate how many and what kinds of workers need to be hired to complete each component of the construction project. Managers are responsible for obtaining the appropriate construction permits, and they’re also responsible for making sure all work is done in a safe manner, complying with building regulations and labor union policies. They keep close watch on the quality of the work being done, regularly meeting with engineers and architects to be sure the construction is adhering to the specifications of the plans. Keeping track of the planned schedule to make sure nothing is done out of order, and that the work is following the projected time frame, is the manager’s principle responsibility. When delays or problems arise, they must make sometimes rapid decisions to correct the problems and keep the project as closely on schedule as possible. The manager is responsible for laying off workers as their part of the project is complete. The construction manager records the progress of the project in a series of written reports that cover all aspects of the work, including the schedule, materials used, labor hired or let go and equipment. These reports serve as the basis for meetings with project executives.

Inspectors Highway inspectors have an important role in the

completion of any road project. They monitor and record all phases of the construction of the road, making sure the road is built to proper specifications using the correct materials, so it is safe. To accomplish that, inspectors are involved from the very beginning, inspecting the excavated road site and the landfill used. They test the concrete poured into wooden firms, making sure it has been mixed and poured properly, and they inspect the concrete when it has set to make sure it has no defects. Throughout construction, right to the placement of the final guard rail, inspectors visit the site frequently to make sure the road is being built correctly. Contractors also rely on inspectors for their payment. Since contractors usually only estimate the materials, time and actual distance of the road, inspector’s reports prove what the contractor has actually done, which is important for the contractor’s final billing. Once the road is completed, the inspector is the one who accurately measures the actual distance of the road. 11

HIGHWAY WORKERS TELL ABOUT THEIR JOBS I Am a Highway Maintenance Worker “I grew up in a

small rural town. My dad worked for the county department of transportation. He worked strange hours sometimes, long days in summer repairing roads and long nights in winter doing snow removal. Sometimes he would take me to the highway department and let me climb around on the big machines. Of course I thought that was great. At school I always said I wanted to work like my dad when I grew up.

In high school, I took as many science and math classes as I could. Dad had retired, but he said these were the kinds of classes I needed to have a real career. I think he regretted not having had more schooling, as he never finished high school. He said I would have a better chance at being promoted some day if I had more education. The high school guidance counselor said the same thing, so I applied to the local technical school after high school. I took classes in construction technology and machine operation. When I graduated after two years, I was able to get a job with a general contractor who had road construction projects contracted with the state. I trained on the heavy machinery for them. It was fun for a while. The project was a large one, and I worked on different stages of it over many miles. I had the chance to learn a lot about some of the equipment. Then the project was finished, and I was out of a job. For a few years, I floated from project to project, moving between four states in my area. It was a good experience, getting to live in other towns and meet new people. But I missed my own hometown, and I was getting tired of not staying in one spot long enough to start a family of my own. So I went back and applied to the county highway departments in my home county and two neighboring counties. I was offered a job in a neighboring county. Now I have a full time, year round job in the highway department. I like having a regular job rather than changing employers all the time. I met my wife, who works in the sheriff’s

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department as a dispatcher, and we married and bought a home here. Even though I work for one employer, my job varies with the seasons, so it doesn’t get too routine. In the summer, we do road repair work, filling in cracks and repairing potholes, resurfacing older roads and adding new shoulders. We also keep the roadsides mowed and remove any debris. Last year we added guard rails to several stretches of highway that had had a series of bad accidents. In the winter, snow removal and ice control is our biggest job, as we’re in the north. Keeping the roads clear after a snowstorm or ice storm is one of our biggest tasks, depending on how bad the winter is. There is some road repair in the winter too, if we have a problem with cracking or buckling roads. I have been promoted to crew supervisor, which gives me better pay and the chance to have a say in how things are done. I also have been able to take some additional courses at the local technical school, which also increased my pay, so I’m doing pretty well. The next promotion I would eligible for would put me in management – a desk job. I’m not in a big hurry for that, although someday I’d like to be a manager. But then I wouldn’t get out as much and work with my hands, which is part of my job now. The hours are long sometimes, but it’s great to get outside and see what’s happening.”

I Am a Construction Manager “I didn’t set out to be

a construction manager, but that’s where I am today, and I’m glad to be there. After I finished high school, I wanted to take some time off before going to college. I was pretty energetic and tired of being in school all day. I wanted to do something more physical, so I got what was supposed to be a summer job working for the state highway department on some road crews. That first job was pretty basic stuff, a laborer job. I started out holding signs up to redirect traffic, then I was asked to assist some of the machine operators. When the project was almost over, the contractor asked if I’d like to hire on for their next project, a smaller piece of road 13

construction (actually, they were rebuilding an existing road within a city). The smaller project gave me the chance to do more. The machine operators took me under their wings, and because the project was running on schedule, I was able to learn more about operating the machinery. The manager of that project suggested I take some courses in machinery at the vocational-technical institute. I wasn’t sure about that at first, as I had put off going back to school, and I wasn’t sure this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. But the manager pointed out that operating machines could be the first step to more jobs, with more variety, and that more education would get me promoted more quickly, if I did well. So I took time off from work and went back to school. I started out in a two-year program of construction technologies, then added on construction management classes, which took me a total of four years to complete. During the summers, I worked for the same contractor on more road construction and repair projects. When I graduated, they offered me a job as a machine crew supervisor. That wasn’t completely easy. Some of the machine operators resented having been passed up as supervisor, even though they’d been on the job longer than I had. But I had the training; I had spent time learning about the construction business as a whole rather than just the crane operating part of it. I made a point to be fair and reasonable, trying not to give arbitrary commands. In time it worked out fine. During my time as a crew supervisor, I was in on meetings where different crews reported on various stages of construction. I got to watch the construction manager work and make decisions. I knew that was what I really wanted to do: oversee everything, not just one small part. When another contractor approached me about hiring on as an assistant to the manager, I jumped at the chance. It was a good choice. The person I was assisting was planning on retiring a couple of years later, and since I made it a point to do a good job, I was promoted when the position opened up.

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Being a construction manager is like putting together a huge jigsaw puzzle where some of the pieces change shape sometimes. It can be very complicated, and sometimes it’s just a headache. But it’s never dull. Every day is different. I meet with all kinds of people at all different stages. I get recommendations, and I make decisions that make a difference in the way the roadwork goes. I get the satisfaction of seeing my decisions having a huge impact as a road slowly takes shape, from staking to excavation to the final inspection. I know what I do is important, and I take it seriously.”

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PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS THE WORK INVOLVED IN CONSTRUCTING AND MAINTAINING ROADS CAN BE EXCITING,

stressful, vital and exhausting. The personal qualities required to propel you towards success in this field will vary somewhat from job to job, but there are some overall characteristics that are useful at all levels.

Being in good physical condition is very important. Even for machine operators, who may spend a good part of their day seated, physical fitness will be critical in holding up during long days on the job site. For anyone who will be working materials by hand, or even holding the “stop/slow” signs on the open part of the highway, being physically fit will make long days on your feet and using the upper body muscles easier and less painful, not to mention postponing the effects of fatigue. Highway workers don’t have to be triathletes, but the better their physical condition, the more comfortable the workday. Being able to cope with extreme work conditions is a quality that may be developed over time. Some people are naturally able to handle long days in the hot sun or cold snow, while others need to develop coping mechanisms. Understanding your tolerance of weather variables will help you gauge your chances of being able to work under those kinds of conditions. Being able to stay calm and alert during stressful and occasionally dull periods is not only useful but critical in preventing dangerous accidents. If you’re someone who can stay calm under pressure and think well on your feet, your chances of promotion in this field are better. But it’s also important to be able to stay alert during repetitive tasks, which many of these jobs require. While a college education is not required for entry-level positions, a willingness to pursue additional training beyond high school will increase the possibilities of more work and pay as well as potential promotions. As technology changes and develops, employees who are willing to stay current and learn new techniques of road building, along with learning how to operate new types of machinery, will be those most in demand. A willingness to continue learning will also increase the types of job opportunities available to you. As many entry-level positions are seasonal or contract-based, another useful ability is planning for the future. Workers who know how to set aside part of their earnings for possible unemployment periods, or contract workers who budget for their own health, life and disability insurance, will find the ups and downs of the construction industry less a problem. 16

Being flexible is also important. Jobs may come and go, and the worker who is willing to relocate or manage a long commute will have more opportunities than someone who wants to stay only in one area. The worker who is willing to take on different tasks within a project or contracting firm will have more opportunity for promotion in the long run. Because road construction workers may change jobs frequently, it’s important to be a people person. There will be coworkers and supervisors who are less likable than others, and being able to get along with people will allow you to develop a positive reputation in your industry, an important factor in the eyes of those who hire workers.

ATTRACTIVE FEATURES OF THIS CAREER NO MATTER WHAT POSITION YOU HAVE IN THE HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION AND

maintenance industry, you can be sure it’s an important one. All aspects of American life depend on accessible roadways, whether business or social. Keeping cities and towns connected by constructing roads, and keeping travelers safe by keeping those roads in good condition, is an important job, and everyone involved in this work can take pride in their vital role in American life. People who like active lifestyles, being outdoors, engaging in heavy physical work or working with powerful machinery, and having a variety of work sites will be well-suited to a career in road construction and maintenance. Workers who pursue contract jobs will be able to see a great deal of their city, state, or even the entire country if they’re willing to follow the jobs. They may be able to work in urban or rural areas and meet all kinds of interesting people. Most entry-level positions do not require advanced education, although someone who wants to pursue promotions would be advised to seek post-high school training. The pay, especially on large projects, can be very good, enabling an enterprising worker to accumulate a year’s worth of average pay in a few months. Some workers will then take time off to enjoy other pursuits, while others will find new work and continue to save their extra money. For those who prefer steady work, the construction industry provides a fluid career path. Besides offering the opportunity to move from job to job, the skills learned on road construction projects are easily transferred to other 17

construction work, such as home or office buildings, utility projects and public works projects. Those who choose to stay in the highway industry have good potential for advancement, especially if they take advantage of opportunities for education and training in new technology related to construction. Because roads are so critical to the nation, there is always work available somewhere. Funding may slow during leaner economic times, but the flexible road worker will be able to find employment in other communities, or go from working on road construction to road maintenance. And because the skills in this line of work transfer well to other types of construction, there is a steady rate of attrition, leading to regular job openings. When it comes to public funding, road construction work is more likely to slow down during poor economic times, but road maintenance usually continues, especially if new roads are not being built. Besides offering a variety of positions, highway construction and maintenance work offers different workplace choices. Employees may work for the city, county or state, or they may work for a private contractor. For employees who like flexibility, working for private contractors gives them more options to change locales, projects, and job responsibilities. For those who prefer more of a routine, working for a city or county government agency may provide year-round construction and maintenance assignments within a limited geographic region. Because the skills are interchangeable, you will have the flexibility to move with little or no additional training.

UNATTRACTIVE FEATURES EVEN THOUGH HIGHWAY WORK CAN BE REWARDING, IT ALSO HAS SOME

characteristics that are not as desirable. Anyone considering employment in this field should consider some of these aspects before committing to this field of work. But keep in mind that thousands of people perform this work routinely; while it’s not for everyone, it is a great career for many. Working on road construction and maintenance projects can be physically strenuous and wearing. Hours can be long, especially on large public works projects that have penalties for delays. Faced with paying a fine to a city or state agency or having to pay workers overtime, many contractors will pay the overtime, which can lead to long days with little time off. On projects involving primary roadways, work is often done around the clock or only at night to speed up the construction process and minimize travel delays. This leads to well-paying but exhausting night 18

shifts, where the work is done under bright field lights rather than natural daylight. Extremes of weather will generally not cause work to stop, unless there’s significant danger (electric storms, tornados, etc.), so highway workers will find themselves working in extreme heat, cold, rain or snow. In any season, the work can be dirty and abrasive to skin and clothing. While worker safety has increased in priority in recent years, working on massive construction projects can be dangerous. In the case of road maintenance, often the roads are still partially open while repairs are being conducted, so workers are subjected to the risk of having drivers of vehicles become involved in accidents, especially on night jobs where visibility may be poor. Even on construction sites where traffic has been diverted, the use of heavy machinery as well as tons of asphalt, steel and concrete can lead to accidents that may be serious. Road construction itself is a project-oriented business, meaning that many employees are hired on a contract basis rather than as a permanent salaried employee. The pay may be good while the project lasts, but the employment may end when the road is completed, and benefits such as health insurance are not always included in contract jobs. States in northern climates often hire employees seasonally to conduct construction and maintenance projects that need to be done before heavy snowfalls, and those employees may be laid off when winter arrives. Except for managers and supervisors, highway construction and maintenance workers often do not have strong job stability. Even when the pay is good, those workers must take into account costs of personal insurance and periods of unemployment. Some workers will find themselves moving from location to location, even state to state, in search of steady work. The economic condition of the city, state, or even of the US, plays a role in how much work there is; the weaker the economy, the less road work that will be available. Unexpected problems and issues can arise at the job site, which can lead to a great deal of stress, particularly for those at the supervisory level who must make instant decisions to solve those problems. Supervisors are often on call 24 hours a day during large projects and must be available to deal with crises at a moment’s notice.

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PREPARATION YOU WILL NEED GETTING STARTED IN THE ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE INDUSTRY CAN BE

simple. In terms of education and training, the vast majority of jobs require only a high school diploma or GED (some won’t accept a GED, while others may not require either). On-the-job training is common, but as technology and methods develop and become increasingly complex, more formalized training in the form of two- or four-year degrees or union apprenticeships may become mandatory. In the meantime, students interested in pursuing these careers should focus their high school education around technical and mathematics classes, such as algebra, geometry, science and drafting.

Construction Laborers Since by definition this type of work is unskilled labor, there are not always many requirements for your first job. Some, but not all, employers require a high school diploma. Most of the training is done on an on-the-job basis. For laborers hoping to work their way up to more challenging work, or to supervisory positions, pursuing some kind of additional training is strongly recommended. That training may come in the form of a two-year vocational degree, a union apprenticeship or even home-study courses. Apprenticeships are generally comprehensive and detailed, offering better employment opportunities for entry-level workers.

Equipment Operators (Operating Engineers) Years ago,

anyone wanting to have a career as a heavy machine operator in the highway construction industry would simply have to be hired for on-the-job training. While that still happens, the trend today is toward requiring more formalized education and training for these kinds of positions. Union apprenticeships with various construction companies now is the preferred method of training. Applicants for apprenticeship programs must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED and have a valid driver’s license. They may be required to pass a physical exam, as well as pass a written aptitude test and personal interview. If accepted, apprentices will spend time first learning about the care and maintenance of the machinery before learning to operate it. Another avenue for training is vocational or technical school training. Students are advised to investigate the reputation of the school with local construction employers before enrolling. Once employed as a machine operator, further educational opportunities are offered by trade associations and equipment manufacturers. 20

Highway Maintenance Workers

Many highway construction and maintenance employees began their careers as entry-level maintenance workers. These types of positions usually require a high school diploma or GED, although occasionally neither is mandatory. Workers can pursue this career through a two-year vocational school as well, but most of the training for any entry-level position takes place at the job site. However, employees interested in moving into supervisory positions will have better opportunities if they pursue some level of college education. Since some of the work involved in maintenance requires the ability to drive, a driver’s license is often a prerequisite. Workers applying for jobs with city, county or state highway departments will be asked to take a civil service exam, which demonstrates the employee’s basic reading and math skills.

Ironworkers

Following completion of high school, people interested in pursuing a career as an ironworker will need to apply for an apprenticeship program. Such apprenticeships generally take 3-4 years to complete. During that time, apprentices will usually spend most of their time in on-the-job training under more experienced ironworkers. Apprentices must also spend at least 144 hours each year in a classroom, studying mathematics, blueprint reading and drafting.

Construction Electricians Electricians must have a high school

diploma to enter an apprenticeship program (many apprenticeships do not accept high school equivalency certificates). Apprenticeship programs are currently the best way to become a construction electrician. Offered through national organizations such as the Independent Electrical Contractors or Associated Builders and Contractors, such programs offer on-the-job training along with classroom instruction. Once the apprenticeship is completed, electricians usually must pass local or state licensing exams to demonstrate their competency and understanding of local building codes.

Managers Construction workers used to be promoted through the

ranks to management without additional formal education beyond a high school diploma and on-the-job training. However, today’s construction world has become more technologically complex, and today’s employers are looking for managers not only with relevant job experience, but with a solid educational background as well. Many two- and four-year colleges offer construction management programs that cover both theoretical and 21

practical aspects of road construction and maintenance. In addition, many managers are licensed in one or more of the building trades, many of which offer vocational training to supplement the college education and on-the-job training.

Inspectors Highway inspectors must have at least a high school

diploma, and usually they will be required to have additional training. Inspectors will be expected to have comprehensive education in road-building materials and methods, and that training can be earned in a number of ways. A starting job as a laborer on a road-building project is a good introduction. Taking an apprenticeship in one of the building trades is recommended, or you can attend technical or engineering school for more in-depth study of construction technology, technical mathematics and inspection methods. Beginning inspectors will be given on-the-job training as well before they are permitted to perform inspections on their own.

WHAT YOU CAN EARN EARNINGS IN THE HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE FIELD ARE EXCELLENT, considering the limited number of years of education required to get started. Your salary will vary depending on the size of the project, where the funding is coming from (public versus private funding), and the general state of the economy, which has an impact on publicly-funded projects in particular. In any given category, entry level workers with little or no experience or training will earn the lowest amounts, while employees with more experience or special training will earn more. Pay-related benefits, such as insurance and pension programs, vary from company to company, but most contractors pay overtime rates starting at time-and-a-half for working more than 40 hours per week. Paid vacations are rare, except at the management level. Construction Laborers Beginning laborers can expect to earn about $16 an hour when they begin work in this field, moving up to as much as $30 per hour with more experience.

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Equipment Operators (Operating Engineers) Pay scales for equipment operators vary according to the type of machinery operated and the level of experience the operator has. The average hourly wage for machine operators starts at $20 per hour, moving up to as much as $40 per hour. Crane and tower operators tend to earn more, while excavator, grader, bulldozer and scraper operators tend to earn less. Highway Maintenance Workers Year-round road maintenance positions will offer employees a starting pay of $16 per hour, or slightly more for heavy equipment operators. While these workers typically work a straightforward eight hour, five day a week schedule, occasional overtime will earn time-and-a-half. Employees in these positions usually work for a city or county municipality, where employee benefits will be better than in private contractor jobs. Ironworkers Highway ironworkers will earn $15 per hour at entry level, with time-and-a-half or double time for over 40 hours per week. However, annual salaries will appear lower than weekly averages, since most ironworkers do not work full time year round. Bad weather, and completion of projects without new projects to start are both common reasons for time off without pay. Construction Electricians Electricians can earn as much as $20 per hour to start, especially if they are located in large urban areas. Electricians in rural areas are likely to earn less, generally about $15 per hour to start. Experienced electricians can earn several times their starting rate as they progress. Not all of their income will come from road construction and maintenance projects, but because they have skills that cross over to many construction projects, they can generally stay steadily employed. Managers Salaries for construction managers can vary considerably, based on experience and seniority, size of the project, overall responsibilities and geographic location. Starting salaries will be about $35,000 per year, but highly experienced managers working a large project can earn as much as $100,000 per year. Many managers enjoy additional employee benefits, such as insurance, paid vacations, company car and daily food and lodging allowance when working away from home. 23

Inspectors How much a highway inspector can earn will depend on their experience, seniority, training and qualifications. The salary also depends on which government agency employs the inspector, and where the agency is located. Average starting salary is $40,000 per year, plus paid vacation and sick time, insurance and job-related mileage reimbursement.

OUTLOOK FOR THIS CAREER WHEREVER PEOPLE LIVE, WHETHER IN A LARGE CITY OR A SPARSELY-POPULATED RURAL

community, there is a need for roads, and there is a need for those roads to be adequately maintained. Unless we reach the point of transporting people through space as they do in science fiction novels, roads will be part of the American landscape.

In other words, the highway industry should hold steady in the foreseeable future. This is based on an uncertain economy; if the economy faces a downturn, road projects may slow up, especially new road construction, which is costly for communities. However, where new roads are not being built, the old roads must be taken care of to avoid having to add new roads. If the economy is booming, more communities will fund bigger, more expensive projects to improve their roadways. So while it appears that there will always be some level of construction and maintenance occurring, just how much will depend on the state of the economy. Beyond the economy, job prospects are good. Low unemployment combined with an aging workforce have created high demand for employees. Since many of the skills used in road construction and maintenance can be used in other segments of the construction industry, people frequently change jobs, looking for different challenges and opportunities. As those people seek positions elsewhere, jobs open up for newcomers. There is a high demand for entry-level workers, which can be attributed to internal promotions, job changing, and years of a strong economy leading to more road projects. Beyond the economy is the unpredictable state of the weather. Communities that are prone to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes and floods, may have to replace roads unexpectedly. Large metro areas that rely heavily on multi-lane freeways cannot afford to have those freeways shut down even temporarily, and those areas will strive to find funding to replace the roads as quickly as possible, while also 24

repairing other damaged streets as well. While employees obviously can’t plan their careers around the weather, it’s worth noting that highways are frequently victims of these kinds of disasters, and additional workers are often needed on an emergency basis. As technology changes and develops further, workers who strive to learn about the newest trends and technologies will be the most in demand. Roads used to be constructed by workers with picks, axes, shovels and dynamite; today’s road builders are likely to be working with complex machinery that requires more education. Workers who have completed additional training on different types of machinery or who have taken the time to learn the basic underlying principles of road construction theories will be those at the top of any employer’s list. While college degrees are not required for entry-level work, employees who want eventually to be promoted into supervisory positions should seek additional education, either before beginning their work or (when possible) while working.

GET STARTED TODAY NOW THAT YOU’VE HAD THE CHANCE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DIFFERENT

opportunities in the road construction and maintenance industry, you may be interested in pursuing a career in this field. It’s never too soon to start. Talk to your school guidance counselor about registering for the applicable math, science and shop courses, or start investigating the technical and vocational schools in your area. Find out their requirements and what you need to apply. Or if you’re interested in an apprenticeship program, contact the local unions for information on prerequisites and applications. If you’re interested, but not sure which direction to go, it’s still valuable to contact local trade schools or unions, who can set up informational interviews for you in areas of interest. Talk to your school librarian about publications and books that will have more information for you to study. Call your city, county or state department of transportation for information and job or internship opportunities. There are many ways to start pursuing a career in the field of road construction and maintenance, and today is a great day to start.

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ASSOCIATIONS To learn more about the world of highway construction and maintenance, a good starting place is one of the many professional associations and government agencies. Contacting one of these organizations will give you access to valuable information and insight on current opportunities and requirements for a career in the highway industry. Each of the states has its own Department of Transportation located within individual state government offices, or they can be located by contacting the Federal Highway Administration (see list below). State Department of Transportation offices can advise which state and Federal highway projects may be occurring near your home, as well as which contractors have been hired to complete the project. n

American Council for Construction Education http://www.calpoly.edu/~jrodger/acce/index.htm

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American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees http://www.afscme.org

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American Institute of Constructors http://www.aicnet.org

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American Road and Transportation Builder’s Association http://www.artba-hq.org

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Asphalt Institute http://www.asphaltinstitute .org

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Associated Builders and Contractors http://www.abc.org

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Associated General Contractors of America http://www.agc.org

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Better Roads and Transportation Council

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Federal Highway Administration http://fhwa.dot.gov

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Highway Construction Industry Council

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Institute for Transportation Research and Education http://itre.ncsu.edu

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International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association http://www.ibtta.org

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International Road Federation http://www.irfnet.org

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Laborers’ International Union of North America http://www.liuna.org

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National Asphalt Pavement Association http://www.hotmix.org

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National Association of Women in Construction http://www.nawic.org

PERIODICALS There are periodicals devoted to the various aspects of the highway construction and maintenance industry, but because there are so many different components to road construction, there are also many different periodicals. For example, there are construction industry magazines that look at different kinds of construction; there are periodicals focused on road construction; there are magazines devoted to labor unions who are heavily involved in road work; and there are magazines about specific parts of the highway industry, such as asphalt technology or traffic control. Understanding which aspects of this career interest you most will help narrow down your reading choices, but if you’re not sure, browsing through several different magazines will give you an overview of the choices available. n

AFSCME Public Employee

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The American Professional Constructor

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Constructor

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Transportation Builder Magazine

COPYRIGHT 2005 Institute For Career Research CHICAGO

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