Maintenance Aide I

About the Role

This position serves as a vital part of the Arkansas Department of Transportation's fleet maintenance team. Under general supervision, the role focuses on keeping highways and facilities safe and accessible by operating single-axle trucks, tractors, and attached mowing apparatus. The team is responsible for a wide range of road maintenance functions, from routine grass and weed control to emergency response during severe weather or natural disasters.

Day in the Life

A typical day involves a mix of equipment operation and manual labor. You will frequently operate large tractors and gang mowers to maintain control of vegetation along highway right-of-ways. The role also requires performing landscape maintenance and tree cutting using industrial weed-eaters, chainsaws, and pole saws. Beyond mowing, you will operate single-axle dump trucks to haul construction materials, load and stack bags of salt, sand, and chemicals, and pick up litter, including large debris and dead animals.

Safety is paramount; you will frequently flag traffic and assist crew members in setting up and moving signs and cones for work zones. The role demands physical stamina, as you will be standing, walking, and climbing hills for extended periods while working in all types of weather, including noise, dust, and fumes. Occasionally, you may be called upon to respond to emergencies 24/7 or work during ice and snow removal operations.

Hiring Process & Requirements

Applicants must possess a valid driver's license. Upon hiring, candidates are required to pass the written portion of the Class A commercial driver's license (CDL) exam with a tanker ("N") endorsement within the first 90 calendar days and the driving portion within 180 days. Failure to meet these timelines may result in demotion or termination.

The selection process includes a pre-employment drug and alcohol test for contingent offers. Internal applicants already in safety-sensitive positions are exempt from pre-employment testing, while others must pass the test before starting work. This position is subject to additional testing under the ARDOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Program.

Equal Opportunity & Culture

The Arkansas Department of Transportation is an "at will" employer. We are committed to maintaining a safe and efficient workforce capable of handling the diverse demands of highway maintenance. This position does not require a bachelor's degree or highly specialized theoretical knowledge and is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.