Highway Worker

Job Summary

This entry-level position supports the County’s maintenance of public roadways through hands-on, field-based work under close supervision. The role introduces employees to the safe operation of construction equipment, routine road maintenance, and essential safety procedures for work done on the transportation infrastructure within the county including field-based work involving highway maintenance, snow and ice control and seasonal operations. Employees in this position are expected to develop foundational skills and demonstrate competency in highway operations over a two-year introductory period, after which advancement to Highway Maintenance Technician may be considered.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

1. Assists in maintaining and repairing State, County and local roadways through patching, brushing, debris removal, and snow/ice control.
2. Learns to operate dump trucks, construction equipment, and snowplows proficiently and according to safety protocols.
3. Supports mowing, litter pickup, and right-of-way (ROW) clearing activities to maintain roadway safety.
4. Aids in flagging operations and setting up traffic control zones using signage and barricades during construction or maintenance work.
5. Participates in seasonal operations such as snow and ice control during winter months.
6. Performs basic equipment servicing such as greasing, fluid checks, and minor adjustments with oversight.
7. Assists in sign installation and maintenance tasks to support traffic safety.
8. Observes safety practices and participates in required training to develop operational competence.
9. Completes accurate daily records of work hours, tasks performed, equipment and material used for timekeeping and accountability.
10. Contributes to routine facility and grounds maintenance and cleaning of shop and tools.
11. Performs other duties as assigned in support of highway operations and training goals.
12. Employees hired as Highway Workers with the Door County Highway Department will have the opportunity to advance to the position of Highway Maintenance Technician upon reaching their two-year employment anniversary, provided they have successfully met the following required Core Competencies. A detailed definition of each Core Competency and the required Benchmarks will be provided in the Statement of Understanding to each employee upon hire. 
    1. General Road and ROW Maintenance.
    2. Truck and Equipment Operations
    3. Snow and Ice Control
    4. Traffic Control
    5. Facility and Grounds Maintenance
    6. Safety and Compliance
    7. Documentation and Data Entry

Key Competencies & Skills

• Learning Orientation: Demonstrates willingness to acquire new skills, follow instructions, and apply feedback to improve performance.
• Equipment Familiarity: Gains proficiency in operating trucks and light equipment in a safe and effective manner.
• Safety Awareness: Follows traffic laws, departmental policies, and safety protocols to reduce risks in a hazardous work environment.
• Teamwork: Collaborates effectively with crew members and supervisors to accomplish shared maintenance goals.
• Communication: Listens actively and reports work progress or safety concerns clearly and promptly.
• Work Accountability: Maintains punctual attendance and completes required documentation accurately.
• Foundational Technical Skills: Begins developing basic mechanical and roadwork knowledge through structured training and experience.

Required Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Wisconsin Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B and C or equivalent.
• Must obtain MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) Miner Certification within one year of hire.
• Able to obtain flagger safety certification within first two years of employment

Preferred Education & Experience

• CDL Class A with N (Tanker) and H (Hazardous Materials) endorsements without E (Automatic Transmission) and L (Airbrake) restrictions.
• At least 6 months of hands-on experience in road construction, equipment operation or a related field.
• Familiarity with State, County and local roads within Door County

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

This position involves physical labor performed outdoors in varying weather conditions. Must be able to lift and carry up to 60 pounds repeatedly and stand or walk for extended periods. Work includes operating vehicles and equipment, bending, kneeling, crouching, and handling materials in noisy, dusty, or wet environments. Safe conduct is essential due to proximity to traffic and construction hazards. This position requires safe operation of vehicles and machinery under low visibility or hazardous winter conditions and may include on-call or emergency response availability throughout the year. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required to be worn when performing specific tasks or exposed to certain hazards

Emergency Response Statement

In an effort to provide for continuity of County government and to cope with the problems of the emergency, you may be required to work during a proclaimed state of emergency, consistent with Sec. 323.14, Wis. Stats. and County emergency management plans and programs. 

Equal Opportunity Statement

Door County is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Disclaimer

The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.