Do you love to plow driveways after a huge snowfall? If moving snow and driving big vehicles is rewarding and satisfying at the same time, why not turn it into a career? You can make decent money plowing driveways as a profitable side gig, but it can also become a lucrative, long-term gig — especially if you work for the state.
Apply for a State Position
Locations in the Midwest are hiring at a record pace for snowplow operators. The trend isn’t slowing down either, mostly because the uncertain economy has led to a country-wide shortage of drivers.
On average, snowplow drivers make around $20 per hour. Getting a position through the state or county can be a bit more lucrative; salaries may reach as much as $69,000 per year.
Many state jobs are multi-faceted, which means job tasks may include other duties like construction work or truck and vehicle maintenance. The end result is year-round, not just seasonal, work.
Skills to Bring to the Table
If you’re interested in pursuing a snow remover or driver career, you need to prep your resume and cover letter to reflect your goals. It’s important to list what skills you bring to the table. Include these top qualities, where relevant:
- Able to make safety a priority.
- Has a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) endorsement or special driving operator license.
- Knows how to operate various types of heavy equipment, including a snowplow.
- Able to use hand power tools.
- Possesses basic truck inspection knowledge.
- Has experience with plow maintenance and care.
Not all jobs require a CDL, but it’s a good asset to have in your arsenal. Knowing how to plow properly and clear snow and ice is the most important of all the skills.
Specific Qualifications
Having the hard skills to land this job is essential. But be sure you can go one step further. Many private businesses, as well as state and county companies, will require you to meet specific DOT requirements, which will vary depending on whether you’ll be hauling a large trailer with salt or other materials. Some of these include:
- Ability to pass a physical, including an eye exam.
- Can complete a basic skills aptitude test.
- Able to pass a drug and alcohol test.
Any type of past training with driving a large truck may be a benefit. If you’ve never driven a large plow truck before, taking a training course is beneficial.
Expand Your Career
Landing a snowplow truck job allows you to gain a plethora of experience under your belt. From there, you can expand your career into heavy equipment operation. This opens up year-round opportunities for hauling and moving dirt and materials. Ice road trucking, Hazmat hauling, and oversized-load hauling are just a few jobs you can consider after a career as a snow plower.
If you’ve always wanted to get behind the wheel of a plow truck, now is the time. Many employers are offering sign-on bonuses and incentives for new and seasoned drivers. Some companies will even train you for free.
Being a snowplow driver gives you a wealth of experience to branch out with similar jobs. The snow is on the way. Are you ready to make some money?
