As the winter storm season approaches, PennDOT's Brad Rudolph says the agency needs to supplement the workforce that battles snow and ice.
"We're very much in need of drivers," he said. "It doesn't affect our winter services. It's just we need more manpower."
PennDOT's winter storm plan includes a full complement of salt trucks equipped with plows, but Rudolph says the regular crews need a break when storm cleanup lasts for days and drivers are on the road for 12-hour shifts.
"You know, we're looking for operators," PennDOT's Brad Rudolph. "All our routes are covered, so our guys work longer hours, but we are in definite need of mechanics and temporary operators for the winter."
Diesel mechanics, too, are in demand to keep the trucks on the road. And, Rudolph says, anyone who can show they're handy or has experience in a truck garage, and can help the mechanics with vehicle maintenance or repairs, is certainly in demand.
Drivers can start for almost $19 an hour; diesel mechanics over $21 an hour; and tradesman helpers, working as clerks and radio dispatchers, $15.74 an hour.
Rudolph says help is needed in Philadelphia and the suburban counties, as well as other parts of the region.
He says people can find a rundown of positions available, and apply, online. Click on the "open jobs" tab and look for "PennDOT Winter Maintenance Program 2019-2020."