Now hiring: ODOT got its money, but now it’s scrambling to fill hundreds of job openings before winter hits
KTVZ
(Update: Adding video)
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon lawmakers this week approved a package of tax and fee hikes for stopgap funding to the Oregon Department of Transportation. But the agency is by no means out of the woods when it comes to being ready for winter and the need to keep highway and passes cleared of snow.
With the passage of House Bill 3991 and new funding for road maintenance coming to the agency soon, ODOT said Thursday it’s moving as fast as it can to hire winter maintenance staff.
The agency said it’s “prioritizing filling a mix of seasonal and permanent maintenance positions that provide or support winter maintenance service. They are located in every region of Oregon.”
“This funding is a significant investment, and we do not treat it lightly,” said ODOT Director Kris Strickler. “ODOT will move as quickly as possible to fill vacancies, restore staffing levels and deliver the critical services Oregonians rely on in winter.”
In previous years, ODOT began the process of hiring winter maintenance staff during the summer. However, given the agency’s recent budget woes, it didn’t have the money to fill vacant maintenance positions or hire seasonal staff.
Compounding the staffing challenges: Twice as many people left the agency in July and August of this year, compared to a year ago.
ThOse factors, along with a recent hiring freeze to save money, have left hundreds of positions vacant as the agency heads into winter.
Interested applicants can apply here: Oregon Department of Transportation : Career Opportunities : About Us : State of Oregon.
People with commercial driver’s licenses or experience providing winter maintenance services are especially encouraged to apply., ODOT said. Training is available for those without that experience or certification.