Asphalt Raker

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.