The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is looking for qualified individuals to apply for seasonal positions to help with snow and ice removal across the state through its annual “snowbird” program. The temporary snowplow drivers are hired by IDOT every year on a full-time and on-call basis to help keep roads cleared throughout the winter.
“Many farmers have worked in these positions outside of the planting and harvesting seasons,” said Rep. Blaine Wilhour, “Also, others who are looking to earn extra cash or get their foot in the door at the Department of Transportation have worked as ‘snowbirds’ in the winter keeping roads open and safe for everyone including school buses and emergency vehicles like fire trucks and ambulances.”
Snowbirds are required to promptly respond to emerging weather situations for snow and ice removal and stay on alert to work in emergency conditions at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays. Applicants must have a commercial driver’s license and submit to a criminal background check. A pre-employment physical is required. Veterans are encouraged to apply.
Applicants will be selected based on availability, experience and qualifications. For additional information, including details on the application process, pay and the potential for benefits, please click HERE. Job postings will be made the week of Aug. 23.
Each winter, IDOT has approximately 1,800 plows to put into service, providing coverage to nearly 16,000 miles of roads statewide. These positions are crucial to frontline snow and ice response efforts and have led to full-time jobs as highway maintainers and careers at IDOT.