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Snow Plow Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Vale, OR

$17.50 - $24/hr

... and snow plow; or a satisfactory combination of experience and training that would provide the ... operators' manuals and permit regulations. Supervisor is available to interpret guidelines.

Equipment Operator

Vale, OR · On-site

$4.4K/mo

Has Experience driving a Snow Plow. Has experience performing minor repairs on equipment. Has ... operators' manuals and permit regulations. Supervisor is available to interpret guidelines.

Equipment Operator

The Dalles, OR · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Ability to provide winter road maintenance including snow plowing, sanding, and de-icing on ... Two (2) years of experience operating heavy equipment and performing related construction and ...

Equipment Operator

The Dalles, OR · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Equipment Operator daily assignments will vary, but duties include:Asphalt paving operations ... snow plowing, sanding, and de-icing on arterial, collector, and priority routes Ability to assist ...

Snow Plow Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$13

$25

$37

How much do snow plow operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for snow plow operator in Oregon is $25.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $30.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by snow plow operators during peak winter conditions?

Snow Plow Operators often encounter challenges such as reduced visibility during heavy snowfall, navigating icy or unmarked roads, and managing fatigue during long or overnight shifts. Operators must also coordinate effectively with other plow drivers and emergency services to ensure high-priority routes are cleared first. Adhering to safety protocols and maintaining equipment in harsh conditions are critical aspects of the role, requiring focus and adaptability.

What is the difference between Snow Plow Operator vs Snow Removal Worker?

AspectSnow Plow OperatorSnow Removal Worker
CredentialsDriver's license, sometimes CDL; training on snow plow operationNone specific; may require basic physical fitness
Work EnvironmentOperating large snow plows on roads, highways, parking lotsManual snow shoveling, using snow blowers, on sidewalks and smaller areas
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, private contractors, transportation companiesProperty management, landscaping, private homeowners
Search & Comparison IntentYesNo

The Snow Plow Operator primarily operates large snow plows on roads and highways, requiring specialized driving skills and certifications. In contrast, Snow Removal Workers focus on manual snow clearing tasks like shoveling and using snow blowers in smaller areas. Both roles are essential during winter seasons but differ in work environment and required credentials.

Is snow plow operation a good side hustle?

Snow plow operation can be a viable side hustle for those with a snow removal vehicle and knowledge of operating plow equipment. It often requires flexible hours during winter storms and may involve working early mornings or late nights. Income varies based on demand, location, and the number of clients served.

What does a snow plow operator do?

A snow plow operator is a temporary, seasonal position in the winter. Typically, the job is either treated as an on-call position or a contracted position. In this career, you are the driver of a snow removal truck. For smaller areas, like parking lots, you can use a skid steer instead. Your primary duties as a snow plow operator are to maintain highways, roadways, parking lots, airport runways, and any other driving surface after a snowstorm. Additional responsibilities typically include dropping salt on roads to prevent ice buildup and increase road safety. Along with snow removal, you must also maintain your vehicle and equipment.

What is a snow plow operator?

Snow plow operators are professionals responsible for removing snow and ice from roads, highways, parking lots, and other public or private areas. They operate heavy machinery such as plow trucks, salt spreaders, and sometimes loaders to ensure surfaces remain safe and passable during and after winter storms. Their work is essential for maintaining transportation safety and accessibility during the winter months. Operators often work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on weather conditions.

How much money can you make with a snow plow?

Snow plow operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a private company or government agency. Seasonal or overtime work can increase total earnings, and some operators may earn additional income through tips or bonuses. Salaries can vary widely based on the region and the complexity of the equipment used.
What are popular job titles related to Snow Plow Operator jobs in Oregon? For Snow Plow Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Snow Plow Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Snow Plow Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Snow Plow Operator jobs in OR? For Snow Plow Operator jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Snow Plow Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,574 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

$17.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description Class Title: Equipment Operator Department: Road FLSA Status: Non-Exempt WC Code: 5506 Pay Range: 11 Union: AFSCME This classification performs routine construction and maintenance tasks with light and heavy motorized equipment in accordance with established well-defined procedures. EOE, Veterans Preference. SUPERVISION RECEIVED Work is performed under the general supervision of the Road Supervisor.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED Supervision of other employees is not normally a responsibility of positions in this classification. Essential Functions ((The following description of duties may not be all inclusive and other duties may be assigned at the discretion of management). Performs a variety of construction projects such as finish grading, sloping and channel work.

Regular physical attendance at the employer's facility or job site is required. Set-up and maintenance of County roads, including chip sealing, patching with asphalt, cleaning bar pits, installing culverts, graveling, grading of roads and snow removal. Performs minor repairs on County equipment.

Performs manual tasks including shoveling, raking, hauling and flagging. Repairs and replaces wooden and concrete bridges. Install, repair and clean culverts and cattle-guards.

Trim and remove trees and brush from the roadways. Maintains "good housekeeping" in general work area; observes all safety rules and regulations. Courteously meet and deal effectively with other employees, department heads, outside agency personnel and the public.

Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSMust have high school diploma or equivalency (GED). Must have two years of experience in operation of heavy equipment which includes; grader, loader, backhoe, roller, dozer, forklift, and snow plow; or a satisfactory combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTSMust have valid CDL.

A CDL will be required in order to drive dump truck, belly dump, and water truck. Must have a clean, acceptable driving record that qualifies per the County's vehicle policy. Must pass a pre-employment drug test and random drug testing per ODOT requirements.

You must complete this Drug and Alcohol Testing Statement for Prospective Employee form by downloading it from the link below and upload it onto your application where you would upload resumes or other forms. Link to download the Drug & Alcohol Form: https://www.malheurco.org/wp-content/uploads/Departments/Admin/ODOT-Drug-and-Alcohol-Statement-for-interviewees-of-CDL-jobs.pdf PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS Past government experience. Has over 2 years of experience with grading, sloping, and channel work

Has Experience driving a Snow Plow. Has experience performing minor repairs on equipment. Has experience with road and bridge construction.

Has experience on all types of equipment used to perform this job. (Trucks, loaders, backhoes, graders, cranes, rollers, graders, snow plows, dozers, and forklift.) QUALIFIED VETERANS FORM If you are a Qualified Veteran or Qualified Disabled Veteran and would like to be granted preference in the selection and hiring process, please fill out this Veterans' Preference Form and provide proof of eligibility by submitting a copy of form DD-214 or 215 (copy 4). This completed form and required supporting documentation must be submitted with your application in order for consideration for Veterans' Preference http://www.malheurco.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Veterans-Preference.pdf If you are a Malheur County Resident that plans to stay in Malheur County for the next 5 years and would like to be granted preference in the selection and hiring process, please read, fill out this form and attach it to your application

https://www.malheurco.org/wp-content/uploads/Departments/Admin/Menu-Links/50-Resident-Applicant-Preference-Form.pdf BACKGROUND CHECKS In order to be considered for this position final applicants will be going through background checks which may include; Criminal, DMV, Pre-employment Drug test, Psychological testing, Reference, Certification and Education checks. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Thorough knowledge of: the operation of light and heavy equipment including motorized equipment such as trucks, loaders, backhoes, graders, cranes, rollers and other comparable equipment; thorough knowledge of road and bridge construction; safety practices; use of material hand tools. Skill in: application of safety practices; operation of light and heavy equipment and hand tools.Ability to:communicate effectively orally and in writing; understand and follow written and verbal instructions

Courteously meet and deal effectively with other employees, department heads, outside agency personnel and the public. GUIDELINESWork is performed under Federal and State specifications in accordance with department policies, procedures, operators' manuals and permit regulations. Supervisor is available to interpret guidelines.

PERSONAL CONTACTS AND PURPOSE OF CONTACTS Contacts are with co-workers and the public to exchange information or provide service. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT Worked is performed outdoors and in a mechanic shop; will be exposed to fumes, vibration, noise, adverse weather conditions and may include overnight camping conditions. This position also requires bending, climbing, kneeling, lifting up to 60 pounds, reaching, sitting, standing, stooping, walking, crawling, working at heights and walking rough terrain.

HOURS WORKED PER WEEK 40 (generally works 4 ten hour days Monday - Thursday). Evening and weekend work may be required due to emergencies and bad road conditions due to weather.