(WFSB) – Plow truck drivers are needed ahead of the major snow season.
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) said they need people to apply.
Dot said overall they have over 600 openings.
It’s down from 750 earlier this year, but it’s something they want to fill as much as they can.
When it comes to plow drivers, we’re seeing a similar issue we saw last year: recruiting enough drivers who have Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL).
All plow truck drivers in Connecticut need a CDL.
According to DOT spokesman Josh Morgan, the market for CDL drivers is as competitive as ever.
Other areas with shortages, like school bus drivers, continue to recruit too.
They’re not just competing with employers in Connecticut, either.
“You’re not just in competition with people, neighboring towns, neighboring states. It’s industry-wide across the country, also in competition with the private sector who are trying to hire drivers with a CDL license,” said Morgan.
The DOT said they also need mechanics.
According to Morgan, recruiting mechanics has been just as challenging.
Less mechanics means increased turnaround time for damaged or broken equipment, which means it could add to delays this season if not enough mechanics are hired.
“These plows are out, they’re running 12, 18, 24 hours they’re out there and things break. A belt snaps or there’s an issue with, a tire issue with some of the equipment operating the plow, we need the experts,” said Morgan.
If you’re interested in applying for a job with DOT, click here.
State dealing with shortage of snowplow drivers
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