On the road: Work involves variety of skills
On the road: Work involves variety of skills
There is no doubt that the work of road construction laborers is physically demanding, requiring rigorous projects to be undertaken in all types of weather conditions. The wide range of vital tasks the workers perform, from the simple to the potentially hazardous, make it possible for the rest of us to reach our destinations each day.
At highway construction sites, typical duties may include clearing and preparing highway work zones and rights of way; installing traffic barricades, cones and markers; and controlling traffic passing around work zones. Workers also dig trenches, install sewer, water and storm drain pipes, and place concrete and asphalt on roads. Other highly specialized tasks include operating laser-guidance equipment to place pipes; operating air, electric and pneumatic drills; and transporting and setting explosives for tunnel, shaft and road construction.
Workers operate a variety of equipment, including pavement breakers; jackhammers; earth tampers; concrete, mortar, and plaster mixers; electric and hydraulic boring machines; torches; small mechanical hoists; laser beam equipment; and surveying and measuring equipment. They may use computers and other high-tech input devices to control robotic pipe cutters and cleaners. To perform their jobs effectively, construction laborers must be familiar with the duties of other craft workers and with the materials, tools and machinery they use.
Most road construction workers generally work eight-hour shifts, although longer shifts are common. Overnight work may be required when working on major highways.
Weather-related work stoppages are possible at any time of the year. Jobs are weather-sensitive, with the majority of work performed nine months out of the year — work can be scarce in winter months, depending on the region.
Hourly wages vary per trade, although the average pay rate for a general laborer ranges from $12 per hour to $19 per hour. The more skilled construction jobs will typically pay higher wages than general labor.Education and training Most road construction worker jobs require a variety of basic skills, but others require specialized training and experience. Most workers learn on the job, but formal apprenticeship programs provide the most thorough preparation.
While some construction worker jobs have no specific educational qualifications or entry-level training, apprenticeships for laborers require a high school diploma or equivalent. High school classes in English, mathematics, physics, mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, welding, and general shop can be helpful. Construction laborers may also choose or be required to attend a trade or vocational school or community college to receive further trade-related training.
Required skillsLaborers need manual dexterity, good eye-hand coordination, good physical fitness, a good sense of balance, and an ability to work as a member of a team. The ability to solve arithmetic problems quickly and accurately may be required. In addition, military service or a solid, reliable work history is viewed very favorably by contractors.
Opportunities for advancementThrough training and experience, laborers may also advance to become construction supervisors or general contractors.
For those who would like to advance, it has become crucial to be able to communicate in both English and Spanish in order to relay instructions and safety precautions to workers with a limited understanding of English; Spanish-speaking workers make up a large part of the construction work force in many areas.
Computer skills also are important for advancement in the industry as construction work is becoming increasingly mechanized and computerized.
Where to find jobsMost workers start by getting a job with a contractor who provides on-the-job training.
Temporary job agencies are also a good resource for finding short-term work in this field, as many private construction companies are using agencies to find experienced employees.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Ricky Touchstone, a senior project manager with Frank Blum Const
Looking for work
Companies in the Triad and surrounding areas include:
APAC-Atlantic Inc.
View job openings and apply online at http://www.apac.com.
Larco Construction
Larco is part of Sloan Construction Co. Inc. Learn how to apply at http://www.sloan-construction.com.
Sharpe Brothers/V&G Asphalt
View job openings and instructions on how to apply at http://www.SharpeBrosVG.com.
Triangle Grading and Paving Inc.
View job openings and apply online at http://www.trianglegradingpaving.com.
Yates Construction Co.
Learn how to apply at http://www.yatesconstruction.com.
