Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators
Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators run machinery that applies asphalt, concrete, or other materials to roads, parking lots, and airport runways. They also operate equipment that compacts gravel, dirt, and similar materials. This work takes place outdoors at construction and paving sites across the country.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves operating asphalt pavers, concrete spreaders, tamping machines, or stone spreaders on active job sites. Equipment operators position and guide machines to lay materials evenly, monitor operations for quality and safety, perform routine maintenance checks, and communicate with crew members about site conditions. Weather and project schedules determine whether work happens during standard business hours or extended shifts.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy hands-on work with machinery and prefer structured, straightforward tasks with clear procedures. People who do well in this role are detail-oriented about following specifications and comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions while operating heavy equipment.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $83,300 | $111,360 | $111,370 | — |
| District of Columbia | $72,180 | $91,280 | $91,280 | 70 |
| Washington | $73,810 | $90,530 | $102,000 | 530 |
| Alaska | $66,830 | $83,520 | $100,240 | 80 |
| California | $64,270 | $83,130 | $126,640 | 1,400 |
| Connecticut | $61,230 | $77,480 | $96,160 | — |
| Idaho | $57,050 | $73,210 | $96,250 | 130 |
| Illinois | $56,000 | $73,060 | $102,240 | 950 |
| Missouri | $48,930 | $69,400 | $92,420 | 1,560 |
| Wisconsin | $50,380 | $69,020 | $91,230 | 960 |
| Minnesota | $61,930 | $68,180 | $80,450 | 830 |
| Oregon | $59,950 | $63,310 | $73,930 | 520 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Asphalt Paving — International Union of Operating Engineers
- Certified Equipment Manager (CEM) — Association of Equipment Management Professionals
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-2071.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.