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Snow Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL

Road grading, ditch cleaning, trench excavation, movement, stockpiling, loading of aggregate/snow ... Read and understand the manufacturers operating manual for each piece of equipment prior to ...

Amentum Services, Inc.

Crane Operator

Chicago, IL

... safe operating condition. Notates any repair or maintenance needs on the daily check list and ... Snow shoveling, ice-chipping, and other forms of manual labor required. * Performs physical ...

Pae

Crane Operator

Chicago, IL

... safe operating condition. Notates any repair or maintenance needs on the daily check list and ... Snow shoveling, ice-chipping, and other forms of manual labor required. * Performs physical ...

Pae

Heavy Equipment Operator Lead

Chicago, IL

This is both a working and operating lead position with physical labor, and support tasking ... Snow shoveling, ice-chipping, and other forms of manual labor required due to location of position.

Oak Park

Equipment Operator

Oak Park, IL

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

... plow, snow plow and various other equipment for a variety of maintenance and construction ... of time - Operating assigned equipment. Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSnow Operator JobsSnow Operator Jobs in Illinois

Snow Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$23

$34

How much do snow operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for snow operator in Illinois is $23.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $29.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Snow Operator vs Snow Plow Driver?

AspectSnow OperatorSnow Plow Driver
CredentialsTypically requires snow removal training, driver’s license, and sometimes certification in equipment operationRequires valid driver’s license and experience operating plow trucks
Work EnvironmentOperates various snow removal equipment in outdoor, often harsh winter conditionsPrimarily drives and operates snow plow trucks on roads and parking lots
Industry UsageUsed across municipal, commercial, and private sectors for snow removalCommonly employed by municipalities, contractors, and private property managers for road and lot clearing

Snow Operators and Snow Plow Drivers both work in winter conditions and require similar licenses. However, Snow Operators often handle a variety of snow removal equipment, while Snow Plow Drivers focus specifically on plow trucks. Both roles are essential for effective snow management in urban and rural areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a snow operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Snow Operator, you need experience in operating heavy machinery such as snowplows and loaders, as well as a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or equivalent. Familiarity with de-icing equipment, GPS navigation systems, and vehicle maintenance procedures is often required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work long, irregular hours in harsh weather conditions set outstanding operators apart. These skills ensure roads and facilities remain safe and accessible during winter weather, minimizing disruptions and accidents.

What is a snow operator?

Snow Operators are professionals responsible for operating equipment to remove snow and ice from roads, parking lots, sidewalks, and other public or private spaces. They typically work for municipal services, private contractors, or facilities management companies during winter months. Their duties include driving snow plows, spreading salt or sand, and maintaining equipment to ensure safe and accessible conditions. Snow Operators often work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, especially during and after snowstorms.

What are the typical challenges faced by a snow operator during peak winter months?

Snow Operators often encounter long shifts and unpredictable work hours during heavy snowfalls, as timely response is critical for public safety. Navigating poor visibility, icy conditions, and operating heavy machinery in challenging weather are common aspects of the job. Effective communication with team members and adaptability are essential, as priorities can shift quickly depending on weather forecasts and municipal needs. Despite these challenges, strong teamwork and a well-structured support system help ensure safe and efficient snow removal operations.

What are popular job titles related to Snow Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Snow Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Snow Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Snow Operator jobs in Illinois are:

Snow Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Snow Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,293 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

HIGHWAY MAINTAINER - SNOW REMOVAL OPERATOR-DISTRICT 4

State of Illinois

Monmouth, IL • On-site

$27.79/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57813
Opening Date: 08/10/2026
Closing Date: 08/21/2026
Agency: Department of Transportation
Class Title: HIGHWAY MAINTAINER - 18639
Salary: $27.79 Hourly
Job Type: Hourly
Category: Part Time TEMPORARY ON-CALL
County: Warren; Fulton; Henderson; Knox; Marshall; McDonough; Mercer; Peoria; Stark; Tazewell; Woodford
Number of Vacancies: 52
Bargaining Unit Code: Non Bargaining Unit
Position Locations:
Aledo Team Section - 1610 SE 3rd Street, Aledo - Mercer County
Biggsville Team Section - 1470 State HWY 94, Biggsville - Henderson County
Monmouth Team Section - 710 180th Ave, Monmouth - Warren County
Macomb Team Section - 2850 E Jackson Street, Macomb - McDonough County
Knoxville Team Section - 1393 Knox Hwy 9, Galesburg - Knox County
Lewistown Team Section - 934 S Illinois Street, Lewistown - Fulton County
Wyoming Team Section - 720 South 7th Street, Wyoming - Stark County
Peoria West Team Section - 6500 W US Route 150, Edwards - Peoria County
Morton Team Section - 1971 N Morton Ave, Morton - Tazewell County
Wenona Team Section - 3095 County Rd 800 North, Wenona - Marshall County
El Paso Team Section - 990 W Main St, El Paso - Woodford County
All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.
Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.
Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.
No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.
Position Overview
The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire temporary Snow Removal Operators for the 2026/2027 Snow and Ice Season. The Snow Removal Operators (hourly snowbird) performs a variety of tasks related to the maintenance, repair and upkeep of roads, bridges and other related structures and features.
Essential Functions:
  • Operates CDL Class A or B licensed vehicles.
  • Assists in emergency snow and ice control.
  • Assists in servicing, washing, and making minor repairs of equipment such as trucks, tractors, snowplows, salt spreaders, compressors, graders and other light highway equipment.
  • Performs routine housekeeping duties and other tasks associated with the general care of the headquarters grounds.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of those enumerated above.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to the completion of four years of high school.
  • For seasonal employees only, possession of a Class B CDL with appropriate endorsements, to include X or N and no airbrake restrictions, is acceptable for a period of two years. At the beginning of the third year from the initial hire date, a seasonal employee must possess a Class A CDL with appropriate endorsements, to include X or N and no airbrake restrictions.
  • Requires one year driving experience immediately preceding appointment free of incidents which could result in license suspension or revocation.

Conditions of Employment:
  • Requires successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, a pre-employment physical examination, a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening as well as on-going random drug and alcohol screenings.
  • Requires the ability to perform arduous labor outdoors in a variety of adverse conditions including, but not limited to, hot, cold, wet, windy, muddy, confined spaces, active construction sites, climbing steep terrain, roadways open to traffic and wading in water while dealing with adverse environmental conditions such as poisonous plants, animals, insects, rodents and snakes.
  • Requires the ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions while maintaining productive working relationships.
  • This position is considered medium work as defined by the US Dept. of Labor (20 CFR 404.1567(c)). Medium work involves lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Operations employees are subject to call at any hour of the day or night on any day of the year in order to respond to emergencies outside of normal work hours. As a result, negotiated rate employees are required to work reasonable amounts of overtime when necessary. Any bargaining unit employee who may be required to engage in a call out shall respond to the call as quickly as practicable but in no situation can the response time exceed 45 minutes.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency
The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois.
Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs.
We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.
Work Hours: As needed, Non-Permanent, Non-Benefit / On-call (October 16 - April 15, dates are dependent on weather)
Agency Contact: District 4 Personnel at: DOT.D4WinterApplications@illinois.gov or 309/671-4870
Posting Group: Transportation; Public Safety
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.
If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.
Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.
Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

Social media

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