Career profile · SOC 47-2071

Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators

Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators is an occupation catalogued under SOC 47-2071. The role reports a median annual salary of $51,650 in the US and is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Entry typically requires a High school diploma or equivalent, and shows high AI exposure (1.00 on a 0-1 scale) — significant portions of core tasks are already being automated.

Median salary
$51,650
per year
Growth outlook
Average
BLS 10-yr
Education
High school diploma or equivalent
AI exposure
1.3/10
automation risk

Frequently asked questions

How much does Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators earn?

The median annual salary for Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators in the US is $51,650.

What is the job outlook for Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators?

The role is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Current US employment is approximately 47,000 workers.

How do I become paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators?

The typical entry education is a High school diploma or equivalent. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.

Will AI replace Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators?

Our AI-durability model gives Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators a score of 1.00 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at high AI risk — many core tasks are already being automated by generative AI and workflow tools. Focus on AI-adjacent skills or plan a pivot to an AI-durable adjacent role.

How hard is it to enter this field?

Paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators has low barrier to entry — generally accessible — you can enter with basic credentials and on-the-job learning.

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