Job Summary
The Asphalt Raker is an essential skilled craft position responsible for the final, precision shaping and smoothing of hot-mix asphalt before compaction, ensuring a clean, high-quality, and uniform surface, especially in utility cuts, patches, and tie-ins common to restoration projects. This role requires significant physical stamina, a keen eye for detail, and strict adherence to safety and quality standards.
Supervision
Reports to: Paving Foreman / Superintendent
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Asphalt Finishing:
- Using an asphalt rake, meticulously spread, level, and smooth hot-mix asphalt to the proper grade, slope, and specified thickness.
- Correct surface irregularities and maintain consistent mat thickness across the restoration area.
- Hand-rake and finish edges, joints, and transitions, particularly around curbs, manholes, utility cuts, and existing pavement, to create a seamless, high-quality finished product.
- Match and finish freshly paved joints evenly before the roller operator begins compaction.
- Restoration Specific Tasks:
- Work specifically on utility restoration projects, including patching and replacing asphalt in trench lines or utility cuts.
- Assist in preparing surfaces for paving, which may include cleaning, application of tack coat, and removing temporary materials.
- Material Handling:
- Shovel, spread, and move asphalt material and other construction aggregates as needed.
- Assist in loading, transporting, and unloading equipment and materials.
- Teamwork and Safety:
- Communicate clearly and effectively with the Paver Operator, Roller Operator, and other crew members to ensure a smooth, continuous operation.
- Maintain a "safety first" attitude and strictly adhere to all company and OSHA safety requirements, including proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Assist with setting up traffic control (cones, barricades, etc.) to ensure a safe work zone for the crew and the public.
- General Duties:
- Clean and maintain hand tools, equipment, and the worksite upon completion of a job.
- Perform other general labor and construction-related duties as assigned by the Foreman.
Skills and Qualifications
- Experience:
- 1 to 3 years of demonstrable experience in asphalt paving, specifically with raking and hand finishing.
- Experience working on restoration, asphalt maintenance, utility cut, or patching projects is highly preferred.
- Technical Knowledge:
- Solid working knowledge of asphalt material properties, flow, and proper application techniques.
- Ability to read and execute paving procedures and follow instructions to meet project specifications.
- Proficiency in operating hand tools, including the asphalt rakes, and shovels.
- Personal Attributes:
- Exceptional attention to detail and pride in the quality of the finished surface.
- Strong team orientation and communication skills.
- Reliable attendance and punctuality.
- Valid Driver's License and reliable transportation.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Physical Stamina: Constant and strenuous physical effort is required, including standing, stooping, bending, crouching, and walking for extended periods (8+ hours).
- Lifting: Ability to frequently lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Working Conditions:
- Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.
- Exposure to loud noise, dust, dirt, grease, and hot asphalt mix is common.
- Work may require long, flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and out-of-town travel when necessary.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro