Garage Operations Assistant - Altoona

We’re looking for a confident, people-focused leader who brings a safety-first approach and a knack for keeping operations running smoothly. As part of the garage leadership team, you’ll work directly with highway maintenance staff, prioritizing critical tasks that help make Iowa’s roadways safer and further our mission: Making Lives Better Through Transportation. You’ll build a strong, supported team by embracing our Core Values: Safety First, People Matter, Customer Focused, Servant Leadership, and Integrity Without Exception.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and communicate daily maintenance operations in partnership with the Highway Maintenance Supervisor.
• Handle routine administrative tasks using common technology and software.
• Prepare project plans that align with budget and operational requirements.
• Review maintenance records, material inventories, supply logs, and crew reports for accuracy.
• Oversee traffic control setups to ensure safe and efficient roadway maintenance operations.
• Coordinate snow operations and operate snow-removal equipment.
• Assist with grading and paving projects.

Requirements

• CDL permit upon hire; Class A CDL with endorsements/restrictions within 5 months of hire date (entry-level driver training provided).
• Successful U.S. DOT Clearinghouse query.
• Pre-employment physical verifying ability to perform the duties described (OPC Webinar Chapter 4 PCP Demo Test).
• Pre-employment drug screen and ongoing participation in random drug and alcohol testing programs.
• May be required to obtain pesticide/herbicide or other certifications as needed.
• Residency within 45 minutes driving time of the Altoona Maintenance Garage within five months of hire.
• Ability to work up to 16 consecutive hours and respond to emergencies as required.
• Some overnight travel may be required; employees must arrange their own transportation.

Qualifications

Applicants must meet at least one of the following:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalency, plus four years of full-time work in highway maintenance and equipment operation.
• All of the following:
  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalency;
  • Two years of full-time work experience in highway maintenance and equipment operation;
  • Two years of combined education (30 semester hours of accredited college coursework in construction technology/management or engineering equals one year of experience) and/or full-time experience.
• Current, continuous state executive branch experience including two years of full-time work as a Highway Technician Associate or Equipment Operator Senior.

Schedule

• 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
• Hours may vary; on-call 24 hours a day during emergencies and/or weather conditions.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits package including health, dental, flexible spending, and life insurance (benefits start the first month following 30 days of employment; review costs here).
• Paid time off effective immediately: biweekly vacation, separate sick leave, accruals rollover yearly, and 9 paid holidays.
• Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) with employer match.
• Optional 401A plan with employer contributions.
• Employee discount programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling, legal, financial).
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Learn more about State of Iowa employee benefits at the State of Iowa Employee Benefits Website.