How to Become a Highway Maintenance Workers in Illinois
Highway Maintenance Workers in Illinois earn a median salary of $58,130/year, which is 18% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a highway maintenance workers takes home approximately $2,410/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a highway maintenance workers can afford in Illinois
Becoming a highway maintenance workers in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Highway Maintenance Workers positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many highway maintenance workers positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for highway maintenance workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 11,050 highway maintenance workers. The highest concentrations are in Kankakee and Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.
Highway Maintenance Workers salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kankakee | $71K | $34.21/hr | 100 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $65K | $31.14/hr | 4,560 |
| Bloomington | $60K | $28.73/hr | 160 |
| Peoria | $59K | $28.59/hr | 460 |
| Springfield | $59K | $28.24/hr | 180 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $59K | $28.19/hr | 270 |
| Decatur | $55K | $26.32/hr | 140 |
| Rockford | $49K | $23.43/hr | 170 |
Highway Maintenance Workers salary range in Illinois
Highway Maintenance Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a highway maintenance workers make in Illinois?▼
The median highway maintenance workers salary in Illinois is $58,130 per year ($27.95/hr). This is 18% above the national median of $49,070. Salaries range from $34,420 to $89,880.
What are the requirements to become a highway maintenance workers in Illinois?▼
Highway Maintenance Workers positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a highway maintenance workers afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $58,130, a highway maintenance workers in Illinois would take home approximately $3,822/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for highway maintenance workers in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for highway maintenance workers in Illinois are Kankakee ($71,150), Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($64,760), Bloomington ($59,750). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for highway maintenance workers?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $58,130 salary, this means roughly $2,877/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.