SOC 47-4051
Highway Maintenance Workers
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ57/100
Elevated
US Employment
๐ฅ151,750
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$49K
$35K โ $69K
Projected Growth
๐+3%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค24/100
Low exposure
๐ก Highway Maintenance Workers face a risk score of 57/100 โ 13 points above the national average of 44. With only 24/100 GenAI exposure, most core tasks remain resistant to current AI capabilities. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $49K ($3K above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 57/100, Highway Maintenance Workers faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like autonomous heavy equipment operation are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 151,750 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in navigating unpredictable and unstructured job sites and physical work in confined or elevated spaces to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Highway Maintenance Workers?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Autonomous heavy equipment operation
AI project scheduling and resource optimization
3D printing of building components
Drone-based site surveying and inspection
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Navigating unpredictable and unstructured job sites
Physical work in confined or elevated spaces
Fine motor craftsmanship in custom installations
Adapting to unique building configurations on-site
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Set out signs and cones around work areas to divert traffic.
Flag motorists to warn them of obstacles or repair work ahead.
Perform preventative maintenance on vehicles and heavy equipment.
Drive trucks to transport crews and equipment to work sites.
Erect, install, or repair guardrails, road shoulders, berms, highway markers, warning signals, and highway lighting, using hand tools and power tools.
๐ป Technology Skills
Data base user interface and query software
Spreadsheet software
Office suite software
Electronic mail software
Presentation software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Public Safety and Security
English Language
Transportation
Building and Construction
Education and Training
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 59% |
| Extraction Workers | 29 | $56K | 71% |
| Electricians | 32 | $62K | 80% |