Highway Maintenance Worker

Position Title:
Seasonal Highway Maintenance Worker

Department:
Thornton Township Highway Department

Reports To:
Highway Commissioner

Employment Type:
Seasonal

Position Overview

The Seasonal Highway Maintenance Worker plays a vital role in maintaining and improving Township roadways, drainage systems, rights-of-way, public grounds, and infrastructure throughout Thornton Township and unincorporated areas.

This position supports daily public works and highway operations by assisting with roadway maintenance, pothole patching, drainage improvements, debris removal, landscaping, snow operations, traffic control, equipment transportation, and general beautification projects. Employees are expected to perform duties safely, professionally, and efficiently while serving Township residents with pride and accountability.

The Township provides training, equipment, and leadership support to encourage employee development in roadway maintenance, safety procedures, teamwork, customer service, and operational efficiency.

General Requirements

• Preferred residency within Thornton Township
• Valid driver’s license preferred
• CDL license preferred, but not required
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to safely operate hand tools and light equipment
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds and perform physical labor
• Strong attendance and reliability required
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Maintain professionalism and a positive attitude in a fast-paced environment
• Follow all Township safety policies and procedures
• Must pass background check and pre-employment screening
• Prior public works, landscaping, construction, or roadway maintenance experience preferred, but not required

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform roadway maintenance and repair work
• Assist with pothole patching and asphalt repairs
• Clean and maintain storm drains, culverts, and drainage systems
• Cut grass and maintain Township properties and rights-of-way
• Remove debris, branches, and illegal dumping materials
• Assist with snow removal and salting operations during winter events
• Operate landscaping equipment such as mowers, trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws
• Load and unload materials, tools, and equipment
• Assist with traffic control and work zone safety setup
• Drive Township vehicles and transport equipment as assigned
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of Township facilities, vehicles, and work sites
• Report equipment concerns, maintenance issues, or safety hazards to supervisors
• Respond professionally to resident concerns and service requests
• Assist with emergency response operations during storms or public emergencies as needed

Work Environment

• Outdoor work environment in changing weather conditions
• Active, physically demanding position
• Frequent movement between Township job sites
• Exposure to roadway traffic, construction equipment, and seasonal weather conditions
• Weekend, emergency, and overtime assignments may be required based on operational needs

Compensation

Starting Pay: $16.00 per hour

Additional Requirements

• Must maintain safe work habits at all times
• Must comply with Township operational procedures and chain of command
• Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Attendance, punctuality, and professionalism are mandatory