Snow Removal Operator

To operate snow and ice management equipment safely and effectively during the winter season, candidates for the Snow Removal Equipment Operator position must meet the following qualifications, physical requirements, and operational expectations.

1. Driving & Licensing Requirements

• Valid Driver's License: Valid Class D Driver’s License with a clean driving record (CDL Class A or B preferred for heavy equipment/haul trucks).

• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR): Clean MVR over the past 3 years (no major moving violations, DUI/OWI, or license suspensions).

• Transportation: Reliable personal transportation to report to the Willow River Company shop/site on short notice, at any hour, regardless of road conditions.

2. Technical Skills & Experience

• Equipment Operations: 1–3+ years of verifiable experience operating commercial snow removal equipment, including:

  • Plow trucks (3/4-ton to 1-ton pickup trucks equipped with straight or V-blades)

  • Skid steers / Compact Track Loaders (with pusher boxes, snow buckets, or broom attachments)

  • Medium/heavy-duty wheel loaders (for large commercial lot clearing and stockpiling)

  • V-box and tailgate salt/sand spreaders

• Site Awareness: Ability to read and follow pre-season site maps, identify staked obstacles (curbs, fire hydrants, light poles, utilities), and navigate tight commercial or residential lots safely in zero-visibility/dark conditions.

• Material Application: Understanding of basic de-icing application rates, salt spread patterns, and pre-treatment methods.

• Basic Maintenance: Proficiency in performing Daily Equipment Inspections (pre-trip/post-trip), checking fluid levels, greasing grease points, monitoring hydraulic lines, and safely mounting/unmounting attachments.

3. Availability & Working Conditions

• On-Call Status: 24/7 on-call availability throughout the winter season (typically November through April). Must be reachable via phone/text during designated call-out windows.

• Shift Flexibility: Willingness to work irregular hours, including extended overnight shifts (10 PM – 8 AM), weekends, and major holidays when snow events occur.

• Weather Endurance: Ability to work in severe sub-zero winter conditions, high winds, and heavy snowstorms.

4. Physical & Personal Qualifications

• Physical Stamina: Ability to sit for extended periods operating machinery, as well as frequently climb in and out of heavy cabs in winter gear.

• Manual Lifting: Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver up to 50–75 lbs repeatedly (bagged salt, plow blades, spreaders, shovel clearing).

• Communication: Clear communication skills via mobile phone or two-way radio to report site completion, equipment breakdowns, or lot hazards to management.

• Attention to Detail & Safety: Strict adherence to site safety guidelines, PPE rules, and defensive driving standards to prevent damage to customer property and company machinery.