Asphalt Paving Operator

The Sunrock Group; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO 2 weeks

Paid holidays

Health insurance

Vision/Dental insurance

FSA/HSA options

Life insurance

401(k) plan

Wellness program

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

Sunrock is seeking an asphalt paving operator to operate pavers, rollers, and skid steers on roadway and site projects. You will help with material placement, compaction, and achieving precise grade while maintaining safety and quality on each shift.

This field-based role requires physical stamina, reliability, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather. CDL preferred; 2+ years of experience expected; opportunities for advancement within our Paving & Contracting Division.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of asphalt paving or heavy equipment operation experience.
• Able to read grade stakes and follow project specs.
• Must pass safety requirements and wear PPE.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL preferred.
• Willing to work outdoors in varying weather.
• Reliable transportation and flexible hours.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Lift up to 50 lbs; manual labor capability.

Responsibilities

• Operate asphalt pavers, rollers, and skid steers to place and compact material.
• Adjust machine settings for depth, width, and flow.
• Perform daily pre-trip inspections and report issues.
• Ensure smooth finish and proper grade of asphalt surface.
• Coordinate with truck drivers and crew for efficient operations.
• Maintain clean, safe work area per standards.
• Follow safety policies and report unsafe conditions.
• Mentor less experienced crew members.
• Undertake additional labor tasks as needed.

Education

High school diploma or GED

2+ years asphalt paving experience

Paving equipment operation

Grade reading and interpretation

Safety-minded

Communication skills

Physical stamina

CDL preferred

Teamwork

Flexibility

Job description

The Asphalt Paving Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining a variety of paving equipment used in roadway and site construction. This includes pavers, rollers, and skid steers used to spread, smooth, and compact asphalt materials to precise grade and finish specifications. Operators in this position work closely with paving crews and foremen to ensure high-quality results, efficiency, and safety. The role may involve performing general labor or maintenance duties as needed.

Typical work hours range from 8-14 hours per shift, Monday through Friday, with weekend or night work required depending on project schedules. Minimal overnight travel (up to 10%) may be required.

Operate asphalt pavers, rollers, and skid steers in the placement and compaction of asphalt materials.

Adjust machine settings to control depth, width, and flow of materials.

Conduct daily pre-trip inspections and report any maintenance or safety issues.

Ensure proper distribution and smooth finish of asphalt surface according to grade specifications.

Coordinate with truck drivers, crew members, and supervisors for efficient paving operations.

Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with Sunrock, MSHA, and OSHA standards.

Follow all safety policies and report unsafe conditions immediately.

Provide guidance or mentorship to less experienced crew members when needed.

Perform additional labor or support tasks on the crew as required.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Minimum of 2 years of asphalt paving or related heavy equipment operation experience required.
• Proficient in the safe operation of paving machinery including pavers, rollers, and skid steers.
• Ability to read grade stakes, understand slope and depth, and follow project specifications.
• Strong understanding of compaction, mix temperature, and asphalt laydown techniques.
• Must have reliable transportation and the ability to work flexible hours.
• Valid North Carolina Driver’s License required (CDL preferred).
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and quality workmanship
• Good communication and problem-solving skills
• Physical ability to perform manual labor and lift up to 50 lbs
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• This is a field-based position requiring regular exposure to outdoor conditions including heat, cold, and noise. Operators must be comfortable working around moving equipment and in fast-paced construction environments.

What We Offer:

• 2 weeks PTO (80 hours)
• 8 paid holidays (eligibility begins on day one)
• Medical, Dental (company-paid), and Vision insurance
• FSA / HSA options with employer contributions (HDHP or PPO)
• Company-paid life insurance
• 401(k) with discretionary match - fully vested after 3 years
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Opportunities for advancement within our Paving & Contracting Division

Sunrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, citizen status, or any other legally protected status under local, state, or federal law.