What is a paving machine operator and how to become one

Key steps to become a paving machine operator

1. Explore paving machine operator education requirements

   Most common paving machine operator degrees

   High School Diploma

   68.4 %

   Bachelor's

   10.5 %

   Diploma

   10.5 %

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2. Start to develop specific paving machine operator skills

   Skills	Percentages
   Asphalt	50.86%
   Hand Tools	21.54%
   Construction Sites	17.73%
   Loaders	9.27%
   Repair Equipment	0.60%

3. Complete relevant paving machine operator training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 1-2 years on post-employment, on-the-job training. New paving machine operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a paving machine operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real paving machine operator resumes.

4. Research paving machine operator duties and responsibilities

   • Determine the exact quantities to be add to produce the determined quantities of asphalt.
   • Turn valves to regulate temperature of asphalt flowing from hopper when asphalt begin to harden on screed.
   • Operate and maintain a forklift, bobcat, backhoe/front-end loader and grader in a safe and efficient manner.
   • Crane operator, Bidwell paving machine operator and setup.

5. Apply for paving machine operator jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a paving machine operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams