Careers in Ready Mix – How Hard Can It Be?

Eight million trade jobs were lost from the labor force during the pandemic, and according to information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the United States will need more than four million new skilled laborers in the coming years to replace them. Careers in ready-mix concrete can be quite lucrative, and it’s not as difficult to get started as you might think. Below, you can learn more about four different career options in the world of ready-mix concrete.

Concrete Truck Driver

The BLS states that heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers are in demand, and between 2021 and 2031, the field is expected to grow by about 4% – or as fast as average. In this position, you will be responsible for loading ready-mix concrete trucks, driving them to jobsites, unloading them, and then returning the truck. In some positions, you may be required to regularly clean and maintain the truck, as well. A career as a concrete driver requires a clean driving record and a CDL, or commercial driver’s license. The average pay is just over $23 per hour, which is equal to a little more than $48,000 annually.

Skilled Laborer

Aside from driving a concrete truck, you might also seek a career as a laborer. In this position, you will provide physical labor related to concrete in a wide range of construction settings. The requirements will vary from one company to the next, but most will require you to have a high school diploma. Most of the time, training is provided on the job, but specialized vocational training can result in better positions with better pay. According to the BLS, employment in this field will grow by 4% over the next decade. The median hourly wage is $18.16, which is equal to an annual salary of just shy of $38,000.

Concrete Finisher

As a concrete mason or concrete finisher, you will be responsible for smoothing and finishing a variety of poured concrete surfaces. This may include floors, driveways, or even roads. While advanced education is generally not required, a high school diploma and relevant vocational training is an asset. You can expect to receive on-the-job training, as well. The BLS states that the median hourly wage for concrete masons and finishers is $22.76, which is equal to just over $47,000 annually.

Business, Administrative, or Logistics Specialists

Like any company, a business in the ready-mix concrete industry will require managers, administrative specialists, and in some cases even logistics specialists. Managers and foremen ensure that things progress smoothly and safely on the job, and administrative specialists work directly with potential customers to schedule services according to their needs. On the logistics side, job duties may include locating and procuring additional supplies, including concrete trucks, as well as fleet management. Pay scales can vary greatly; according to the BLS, foremen who have bachelor’s degrees in their fields earn an average of more than $98,000 per year. Administrative support specialists earn an average of just under $40,000 per year, and logistics specialists can earn anywhere from $30,000 to $77,000 per year depending on their employers and their education.

No matter which of these careers you choose, it is always helpful to obtain relevant certification from the American Concrete Institute. Being certified in your specific field is important for landing better jobs with higher pay and for climbing the career ladder with time. As an employer in the construction industry, Interstate Concrete and Asphalt has always been committed to growing our industry with great employees. Take a look at some of our open positions… they may just be a wonderful start to a great new career!