Maintenance Aide I

About the Role

This position serves as a vital part of the Arkansas Department of Transportation's maintenance operations. Under general supervision, the role focuses on keeping highways and facilities safe and accessible by operating heavy machinery and performing essential road maintenance functions. The team works to manage vegetation, clear debris, and respond to emergencies to ensure smooth traffic flow for the public.

Day in the Life

A typical day involves operating a single-axle truck or a tractor with attached mowing apparatus to control grass and weeds along highway right-of-ways. You will also perform landscape maintenance, including tree cutting and brush removal, using industrial weed-eaters, chainsaws, and pole saws. The role requires frequent loading and unloading of materials such as salt, sand, and cement, as well as picking up litter and debris.

Beyond routine maintenance, you will assist in setting up and moving work zone signs and cones, flag traffic to ensure safety, and make repairs using hand tools. The position demands flexibility, as you may be called upon to respond to emergencies 24/7, including natural disasters, severe weather, and traffic accidents. You will also participate in ice and snow removal operations when conditions require.

Hiring Process & Requirements

Applicants must possess a valid driver's license. Upon hiring, successful 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.

A pre-employment drug and alcohol test is required for all contingent offers prior to performing any work. Internal applicants in safety-sensitive positions are exempt from pre-employment testing but remain subject to the Department's ongoing drug and alcohol testing program.

Equal Opportunity & Culture

The Arkansas Department of Transportation is an "at will" employer committed to maintaining a safe and efficient workforce. This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship as it does not require a bachelor's degree or highly specialized theoretical knowledge. The department values employees who can work effectively in all weather conditions, including noise, dust, and fumes, and who are capable of performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting up to 50 pounds and climbing grades.