Paving Heavy Equipment Operator

Sunrock Industries; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

2 weeks PTO

8 paid holidays

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with match

Life insurance

Wellness/EAP

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Sunrock Industries in Durham, NC is seeking an Asphalt Paving Operator to run pavers, rollers, and skid steers for roadway and site construction. You will work with crews to achieve precise grade, quality finish, and safety compliance with standard procedures.

Typical shifts run 8–14 hours, weekdays, with possible weekend or night work; travel up to 10% may be required. Prior paving experience and a valid NC license are preferred for this field-based role.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of asphalt paving or related heavy equipment operation experience.
• Proficient in safe operation of paving machinery including pavers, rollers, and skid steers.
• Ability to read grade stakes and follow project specifications.
• Reliable transportation and flexibility to work varied hours.
• North Carolina driver’s license preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate asphalt pavers, rollers, and skid steers to place and compact asphalt.
• Adjust machine settings to control depth, width, and flow of materials.
• Perform daily pre-trip inspections and report issues.
• Ensure smooth finish according to grade specifications.
• Coordinate with drivers and crew for efficient paving operations.
• Maintain a clean, safe work area and follow MSHA/OSHA standards.
• Mentor less experienced crew members when needed.

Skills

Safety commitment

Teamwork

Communication skills

Manual labor ability

Education

HS diploma or GED

Tools

Pavers

Rollers

Skid steers

Job description

Why Work for Sunrock

At Sunrock Industries, we build North Carolina’s roads, highways, and communities from the ground up. Our team members are the driving force behind our success — and we reward that commitment with competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and real opportunities for career growth.

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

General Summary

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.

Key Responsibilities

• 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.

Qualifications

• 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.

Core Competencies

• 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

Work Environment

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.

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.