Career profile · SOC 47-4051

Highway maintenance workers

Highway maintenance workers is an occupation catalogued under SOC 47-4051. The role reports a median annual salary of $49,070 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. The most in-demand skills for the role include types of asphalt coverings, mechanical tools, asphalt mixes, remove road surface, work ergonomically.

Median salary
$49,070
per year
Growth outlook
Average
BLS 10-yr
Education
High school diploma or equivalent
AI exposure
1.3/10
automation risk

Top skills

types of asphalt coverings mechanical tools asphalt mixes remove road surface work ergonomically work safely with hot materials transport construction supplies inspect construction supplies perform traffic sign maintenance follow health and safety procedures in construction

Frequently asked questions

How much does Highway maintenance workers earn?

The median annual salary for Highway maintenance workers in the US is $49,070.

What is the job outlook for Highway maintenance workers?

The role is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Current US employment is approximately 159,100 workers.

How do I become highway maintenance workers?

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

What skills does Highway maintenance workers need?

The most in-demand skills for this role include types of asphalt coverings, mechanical tools, asphalt mixes, remove road surface, work ergonomically, work safely with hot materials. These are the skills O*NET identifies as most important for competent performance.

Will AI replace Highway maintenance workers?

Our AI-durability model gives Highway maintenance workers 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?

Highway maintenance workers has low barrier to entry — generally accessible — you can enter with basic credentials and on-the-job learning.

Is Highway maintenance workers right for you?

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