St. Louis, MO  (KTRS)   It may feel like August, but MODOT is already preparing for winter.

The highway department is looking to fill seasonal positions across the state for its winter operations. This includes 75 positions in the St. Louis area.

“Winter storms often last more than one shift and hiring seasonal workers helps keep crews on the road around the clock. These men and women are extremely important in ensuring safe travel on our state roads during winter months,” said Mark Croarkin, District Maintenance Engineer.

MoDOT requires maintenance worker applicants to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma. However, this year, MoDOT will consider candidates without a high school diploma if they have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and/or highway maintenance experience. Applicants must also successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening.

Seasonal maintenance workers, while not permanent positions, work full-time for the duration of the winter season performing snow removal as well as other maintenance activities. They are paid $12.69 per hour and, if needed, receive extensive training so they are able to obtain their CDL within 60 days.

Those interested in applying for a position can do so online at www.modot.org.