Seasonal Loader Operator - Snow Operations

GovFirst; Salem (VA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

GovFirst is seeking a Seasonal Loader Operator to support winter maintenance operations in Salem, VA. The role involves operating front-end loaders and heavy equipment, loading de-icing materials, and performing pre/post inspections during winter events.

Shifts run day and night from 8 AM to 8 PM and 8 PM to 8 AM. On-call seasonal work requires safety focus, ability to respond to emergencies outside normal hours, and strong teamwork in challenging weather.

Qualifications

• Experience operating front-end loaders or similar heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of safe heavy equipment operating procedures.
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations outside normal working hours.

Responsibilities

• Operate front-end loaders and heavy equipment safely and efficiently during winter maintenance operations.
• Load salt, sand, and other de-icing materials into trucks, trailers, and spreader vehicles.
• Assist with preparing equipment before, during, and after winter weather events.
• Perform pre-operation and post-operation inspections of assigned equipment.
• Conduct routine preventive maintenance and report equipment deficiencies to supervisors.
• Assist with snow and ice response activities as assigned.
• Follow OSHA, company, and industry safety policies and procedures.
• Wear and properly utilize all required PPE.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Work safely around heavy equipment and active maintenance operations.
• Respond to emergency call-outs, including nights, weekends, holidays, and adverse weather conditions.

Skills

Loader operation

Safety procedures

Outdoor work

Emergency response

Team player

Tools

CDL (desirable)

Job description

Job Title: Seasonal Loader Operator - Snow Operations

Location: Salem, VA

Employment Type: On-Call / Seasonal (Winter 2026–2027)

Shifts: Day and Night Shifts - 8 AM to 8 PM and 8 PM to 8 AM

GovFirst is seeking an experienced and safety-focused Loader Operator to support winter maintenance operations in Salem, VA. The successful candidate is responsible for:

• Operate front-end loaders and assigned heavy equipment safely and efficiently during winter maintenance operations.
• Load salt, sand, and other de-icing materials into trucks, trailers, and spreader vehicles.
• Assist with preparing equipment before, during, and after winter weather events.
• Perform pre-operation and post-operation inspections of assigned equipment.
• Conduct routine preventive maintenance and report equipment deficiencies to supervisors.
• Assist with snow and ice response activities as assigned.
• Follow all OSHA, company, and industry safety policies and procedures.
• Wear and properly utilize all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Work safely around heavy equipment and active maintenance operations.
• Respond to emergency call-outs, including nights, weekends, holidays, and adverse weather conditions.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members regarding work assignments and operational needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Previous experience operating front-end loaders or similar heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of safe heavy equipment operating procedures.
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather-conditions.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations outside normal working hours.

Required Work Authorization:

Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Required Licenses, Certifications & Screening:

• Valid driver's license required.
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is desired but not required.
• Clean driving record.