Asphalt Screed Operator

Location: Rockville, Maryland
Job Type: Full-time (March - December)
Company: Francis O. Day Co., Inc.
Company Address: 850 East Gude Drive, Suite A, Rockville, MD 20850
Company Phone Number:  x110
Position: Screed Operator
Pay Range: $22.00 - $27.00/hr.; based on experience and qualifications

Francis O. Day Company is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Screed Operator to support our asphalt paving operations. This position is responsible for controlling and operating the screed on asphalt pavers to achieve proper mat thickness, width, grade, and surface quality in accordance with project specifications.

The Screed Operator plays a critical role in mat quality and rideability, working in close coordination with the paver operator, rakers, roller operators, and foreman. This role requires a strong understanding of screed setup, adjustment, and asphalt behavior, along with a commitment to precision, consistency, and safety.

This is a field-based position essential to successful roadway, commercial, highway, and industrial paving projects.

• Operate and control the paver screed to achieve specified mat thickness, width, grade, and cross-slope.
• Set up, adjust, and monitor screed components including extensions, crown, heaters, vibrators, and grade controls.
• Maintain consistent head of material and coordinate with the paver operator to ensure uniform mat quality.
• Monitor mat appearance, texture, and joints, making real-time adjustments as conditions change.
• Ensure smooth transitions at longitudinal and transverse joints and tie-ins.
• Perform daily pre-operation inspections and operator care tasks specific to screed components.
• Communicate clearly with rakers, roller operators, and foremen regarding mat conditions and adjustments.
• Identify screed or equipment issues and report them promptly to supervision or equipment management.
• Maintain compliance with all safety procedures, traffic control requirements, and job site standards.
• Keep the screed area clean, organized, and free of buildup or obstructions.

• 3+ years of experience operating asphalt paver screeds on roadway or commercial paving projects.
• Strong understanding of screed operation, asphalt behavior, and paving best practices.
• Experience with common screed systems and paver brands (e.g., Blaw‑Knox, Cat, Volvo, Dynapac, or similar).
• Ability to read grades, follow paving plans, and maintain tight tolerances.
• Mechanical aptitude and working knowledge of screed heaters, vibrators, extensions, and controls.
• Knowledge of job site safety, traffic control, and environmental requirements.
• Ability to work early hours, extended shifts, and variable schedules during paving season.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively as part of a paving crew.

• Outdoor construction environment in varying weather conditions.
• Prolonged standing and walking behind paving equipment.
• Exposure to heat, asphalt materials, noise, fumes, and traffic.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform manual adjustments and cleaning tasks.

• 4 Paid Holidays.
• Benefits for single and family (Health, Dental, and Vision).
• Bonuses (safety, performance, etc.).
• Company Paid Life and AD&D Insurance.
• 401K with Company Contribution.
• Opportunities for overtime.
• 56 hours of paid sick & safe leave after 90 days.
• 1 week of vacation time after 1 year of service.

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and does not constitute a contract. The company reserves the right to modify this description at any time without notice.

For over 80 years, family‑owned F.O. Day has developed into an award‑winning paving and excavation company by building close relationships with our extended family of valued clients, trusted employees, and dedicated subcontractors & suppliers. Francis O. Day Co., Inc. Headquarters supports its Regional Offices and four asphalt production facilities. Led by management in these facilities, our employees focus on safety, quality, and performance supported by state‑of‑the‑art technology and equipment.

Francis O. Day Co., Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without discrimination based on race, gender, religion, age, marital status, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, state, or local law.