BEDFORD — As local officials continue prioritizing the safety, accessibility, and overall upkeep of regional infrastructure, the Lawrence County Highway Department has announced an immediate opening for a qualified maintenance and operations professional.
The department is responsible for managing a vast transportation network encompassing approximately 675 miles of roadway—including 600 miles of asphalt and 75 miles of stone—as well as 128 bridges and roughly 3,500 culverts and small structures across Lawrence County. The agency maintains all public roads, bridges, and small structures outside the municipal boundaries of Bedford, Mitchell, and Oolitic, as well as shared east and south county border roads, and maintains bridges within Bedford and Mitchell city limits.
Core Responsibilities and Work Scope
Selected candidates will handle day-to-day operations supporting the county’s core mission to provide safe, convenient, and efficient traffic movement for residents and visitors. Key job duties include:
- Equipment Operation: Safely operating heavy machinery and specialized county maintenance vehicles.
- Infrastructure Maintenance: Assisting crew teams with essential road repairs, asphalt paving, and drainage system enhancements.
- Emergency and Seasonal Response: Participating in critical emergency response operations, including winter snow clearance, seasonal plowing, and post-storm debris removal.
Job Qualifications and Hiring Requirements
To be considered for the position, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Licensure: A valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with zero restrictions.
- Screening: Successful completion and passage of a comprehensive background check and pre-employment drug screening.
Women and underrepresented candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Studies show that individuals from underrepresented groups frequently hesitate to submit applications unless they meet every listed qualification; prospective applicants who possess strong foundational skills and dedication are encouraged not to self-select out early.
Compensation and Employee Benefits
The role offers a robust public-sector benefits package designed to support employee well-being and long-term career stability, including:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
- Paid retirement plans (including 401k options).
- 17 paid holidays annually, plus paid vacation time.
- Paid time off (PTO) accrual starting at 3 days at 6 months of employment, expanding to 14 days of PTO after 1 year of service.
Interested candidates seeking to serve the local community directly can submit their applications through the Lawrence County Highway Department or contact the main department office at 1 County Complex Road in Bedford for further application procedures.
