Roading Construction Worker
Description:
Roading construction workers use machines and equipment which apply chip seal, asphalt, and other materials to make surfaces such as roads, airport runways and driveways.
Tasks and Duties:
- check that machinery is in good working order
- meet with other workers to discuss issues such as safety, hazards and the day’s work
- dig up road surfaces for new cables or drains to be laid
- tip and spread gravel and apply seal onto the surface
- control the rate at which materials are tipped
- compact and smooth the surface using a roller
- make minor repairs to machines
- may pour and smooth concrete
- may carry out general carpentry duties
- may lay or repair pipes and drains
- may operate earthmoving machinery
- may direct traffic
Skills:
Roading construction workers need driving and basic surveying skills, as well as an eye for detail. They need to be able to follow instructions.
Knowledge:
Roading construction workers need to know about road-marking methods, health and safety standards, up-to-date methods and equipment and how to operate heavy machinery such as rollers. A knowledge of the materials they use, such as asphalt, drainage pipes and road metals, is important.
Personal Qualities:
Roading construction workers need to be patient, careful, responsible and motivated. It is important that they are safety-conscious.
Physical Requirements:
Roading construction workers need to have good hearing and good co-ordination. They also need to be fit as some heavy lifting is involved.
Educational Requirements:
Three years secondary education with NCEA Level 1 English, maths, science preferable.
Entry Requirements:
A roading construction worker must be at least 18 years of age to work. A current drivers license is generally required.
Useful Experience
- abouring
- work driving heavy vehicles
- work using machinery
- carpentry
It is preferred that roading construction workers have their driver’s and Heavy Trade licence (Class G or I) before they start work.
Training on the job
Skills are gained on the job and training is provided in driving machinery such as diggers. Courses are also available in first aid, drainlaying and management. On-the-job training can lead to a national certificate qualification.
Work Places
Roading construction workers work in locations such as roads, highways, airport runways and driveways. They travel locally to various work sites and may travel to other parts of the country to work.
- usually work irregular hours, and may work early mornings, weekends, night shift work and be on call
- generally work longer hours in spring and summer when more roading construction work happens
- work in most weather conditions and in places that may be noisy, wet, cold, dirty and dusty.
Salary
Roading construction workers usually earn between $47,000 and $60,000 per year, depending on the work involved and their level of experience and responsibility. They may earn more for supervisory duties, and may get a meal allowance if they work irregular hours. There may be opportunities for overtime.