Winter Reserve Snow Plow Operator

State of South Dakota; Watertown (SD); On-site; USD 31,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

State of South Dakota Department of Transportation invites applicants for Winter Reserve Snow Plow Operator. Seasonal positions in Watertown and Brookings require CDL with N endorsement and the ability to operate heavy equipment. Operators perform snow and ice removal on state highways during winter conditions, with training provided.

Hours vary by weather; shifts may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. This is a temporary, non-benefited position.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older and able to operate heavy equipment.
• CDL with N endorsement required; must obtain if not held within 30 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Remove snow and ice on State highways during winter conditions.
• Complete general maintenance tasks as assigned; training will be provided.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

CDL with N endorsement

Job description

Position Title: Winter Reserve Snow Plow Operator

Locations: Watertown (1) and Brookings (2)

Positions Available: 3

Agency: Department of Transportation / Division of Operations

Minimum Salary: $22.80 - $24.60 per hour depending on experience

Closing Date: March 31, 2027

• Seasonal positions can be filled prior to the closing date.*

The normal winter season is approximately September 24 through May 8.

Duties

Snow Plow Operators are responsible for snow and ice removal on State highways during inclement weather. Duties may include completing general maintenance assignments. Training will be provided.

Hours

The hours needed will vary depending on the severity of winter conditions. Winter reserve drivers typically work only during winter conditions affecting travel.

Please note this is a temporary or seasonal, non-benefited position, exempt form civil service.

Requirements

Must be 18 years of age and have the ability to operate heavy equipment. Must have a valid driver’s license and Class A or Class B commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a N: Tank Vehicles endorsement. If you do not have a N: Tank Vehicles endorsement you have 30 days from the date of hire to obtain it. Employee will be subject to pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, follow-up accident, and return-to-duty drug and alcohol testing. Offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of a drug screening. Applicants will be required to authorize the Department of Transportation to obtain a complete driving record. Incumbent must be willing to report to work during inclement weather conditions, including weekdays, weekends, holidays, early mornings, and evenings. Incumbent must be able to report to their assigned Department of Transportation Shop within 30 minutes, under normal driving conditions, from the time of notification.