The Concrete Paving Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of concrete paving equipment — including slipform pavers, placer/spreaders, and texture/cure machines — on airfield and heavy civil projects. This role is hands-on and production-critical: the Operator sets the pace and quality of every paving pass, working closely with the Paving Superintendent, foremen, and the paving crew to deliver smooth, in-spec concrete pavement day after day.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate slipform paving equipment and related machinery (placer/spreader, texture/cure machine, dowel bar inserter as equipped) to place concrete pavement to line, grade, and thickness per project plans and specifications
- Perform daily pre-shift inspections, greasing, fluid checks, and routine maintenance on assigned equipment; report defects and needed repairs promptly
- Set up, calibrate, and adjust paver controls, stringline/3D guidance systems, vibrators, and pan settings to achieve required smoothness and consolidation
- Monitor concrete head, mix consistency, and machine performance throughout paving operations; communicate adjustments with the plant, delivery, and finishing crews
- Support paving operations to FAA (e.g., P-501) and DoD/UFGS specifications, including tight tolerances for smoothness, grade, and edge slump
- Assist with equipment mobilization, assembly, teardown, and transport between projects
- Work as part of the paving crew during setup, cleanup, and non-paving activities as directed
- Follow all company safety policies, jobsite safety plans, and airfield/military site security and access requirements
- Maintain accurate daily records of hours, production, and equipment condition as required
Required:
- 3+ years of experience operating concrete paving equipment (slipform paver experience strongly preferred)
- Working knowledge of concrete paving operations: stringline and/or 3D machine guidance, vibrator function, grade control, and joint layout
- Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and basic project specifications
- Mechanical aptitude for routine maintenance and troubleshooting of heavy equipment
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to project sites
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check, including eligibility for badging/access on airport and military installations
- Willingness to travel to project sites across the region and work extended hours, nights, and weekends as paving schedules require
Preferred:
- Experience on FAA airfield or DoD/military paving projects
- Experience with GOMACO, Wirtgen, Guntert & Zimmerman, or Power Curbers/Power Pavers equipment
- CDL (Class A or B)
- Experience operating supporting equipment (loaders, skid steers, brooms, water trucks)
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
- Outdoor construction environment with exposure to heat, humidity, cold, rain, dust, and noise typical of South Louisiana heavy civil work
- Ability to climb on and off equipment repeatedly; sit or stand for extended periods; lift up to 50 lbs
- Ability to work night shifts and extended paving windows dictated by airfield operations and concrete placement schedules
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