Highway Maintenance Worker
Description OES Code: 87711
Maintenance workers perform the manual tasks associated with road upkeep. They fill potholes or broken places in roadways with asphalt or other such material, spread it with rakes, and finish the final surface. The apply oil to the road surface with sprayers. They clean and clear culverts, ditches, and other drain structures of debris, maintain road shoulders, berms and guard rails, and assist in removal of slides from roadways.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $10.77
25th Percentile $13.50
50th Percentile $16.92
75th Percentile $21.64

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
The standard workweek is a 40-hour, 5-day period. However, some workers may be called on weekends or nights for snow removal or other emergency work. Fringe benefits include paid vacations, paid holidays and sick leave, health benefits, and membership in a retirement system.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 7,200
Projected Employment 2008 8,300
Percent Change 1998-2008 15.3%
Separations 1998-2008 1,800

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 130
Projected Employment 2006 150
Percent Change 1999-2006 15.4%
Separations 1999-2006 20

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Highway Maintenance Workers can expect to be outside most of the day in all kinds of weather. The work is physically demanding and requires stamina, agility and strength. The workers are subject to sunburn, poison oak, and snake and insect bites. In addition, the job is hazardous because it is performed at the side of the road or in the roadway itself, where workers are exposed to vehicular traffic. There is also the possibility of injury by working with and around heavy equipment. Workers may be required to work in emergency situations caused by storms or floods.

Advancement
The job of Highway Maintenance Worker is usually the entry level in the construction or maintenance occupational series in public works departments. As workers gain skills on the job, they may advance to truck driver positions or heavy equipment operator jobs. A skilled worker may also be promoted to lead worker and be responsible for a crew of laborers. Because these jobs are all in government, promotion is dependent upon meeting civil service requirements.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Applicants should apply to the California Transportation Department (CALTRANS) and city and county civil service offices. Employers will list this job usually as laborer with the exception of CALTRANS, which uses the title of Highway Maintenance Worker. For CALTRANS jobs, application should be made at a district office. There are 11 districts scattered throughout the State.

Education and Training
Most employers require that applicants have completed the eighth grade or have some experience in the construction or maintenance field. The experience requirement may be for as short as six months or up to one year. A good driving record and a valid California driver's license are essential.

Skills & Other Requirements
Employers look for applicants who have knowledgej of the operation and care of automotive equipment, minor construction, requirements, and maintenance work, and safety practices. The ability to read and write, to follow instructions, and to do heavy manual labor is also required.

References
California Occupational Guide #537

Related Occupations: Truck Drivers, Heavy, Gardeners and Groundskeepers

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)