Highway Technician I-III

Highway Technician I-III

Salary

$25.55 - $49.73 Hourly

Location

Highway Operations - Frederick, MD

Job Type

Full-time Regular

Job Number

FY26-00599

Department

DPW Highway Operations

Opening Date

07/16/2026

Closing Date

7/23/2026 4:00 PM Eastern

FLSA

Non-Exempt

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

JOB INFORMATION

Non-exempt (compensatory and/or overtime eligible; additional compensation to include annual work boot allowance); full-time; 40 hours per week; Summer: Monday - Thursday; 6:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; Winter: Monday - Friday; 7:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.; full benefits

The Highway Technician performs skilled maintenance and repair work on County roadways, bridges, storm drainage systems, traffic signs, and related infrastructure. This position operates a variety of light to heavy equipment and tools in support of roadway maintenance, construction, and emergency response activities. Work includes pavement repairs, drainage maintenance, vegetation management, snow and ice control, and installation or repair of signs and appurtenances. Incumbents perform assigned tasks in accordance with established procedures, safety standards, and work plans under the direction of a Foreman or Assistant Foreman. The position may provide limited assistance or guidance to other workers but does not have formal supervisory responsibility. Work is performed primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions and may require on-call response for emergencies or winter operations.

NOTE: The upper pay range reflects possible wage rates for internal County transfers and promotions, which are calculated per County policy. For external hires, offers are made at the base wage rate.

Frederick County Government values the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to Frederick County Government today.

TOTAL COMPENSATION PACKAGE:

Frederick County offers an extensive compensation package to reflect how highly we value our employees. The following is what you can expect in your first year as a full-time benefited Frederick County Government employee.

• 11 days of Vacation leave with increase after 2 years of employment

• 15 days of Sick leave with unlimited annual carryover

• 11 paid holidays, plus 2 additional floating holidays (10 and 11 month employees may not receive all holidays)

• Day 1 coverage of comprehensive Medical Insurance Plan options to include generous County Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution (if enrolled in the high-deductible plan). This is part of a full range of benefits including Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending

• Employee Health Center with no or low-cost primary and urgent care

• 100% County paid 2x annual salary Group Term Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) benefit

• County and Employee funded Defined Benefit Pension Plan

• Vesting after 5 years of service

• Additional service credit for eligible previous public service, military service, etc.

• Work/Life balance programs include: Employee Assistance Program and Employee Wellness Program

• Generous Tuition Reimbursement Program

• Other employee-paid benefits such as Deferred Compensation Plan, Legal Resources, Supplemental Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Lifetime Benefit with Long Term Care plan

NOTE: Benefited employees will accrue service and leave based on the FTE and/or hours worked per calendar year.

For more information, visit our benefits page on the Frederick County Government job opportunities webpage.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

HIGHWAY TECHNICIAN I DUTIES:

• Operate light to heavy equipment and vehicles, including dump trucks, mowers, loaders, skid steers, and related equipment, following established safety procedures
• Assist with pavement maintenance activities such as pothole patching, minor asphalt and concrete repairs, trench repairs, and shoulder maintenance
• Perform basic drainage maintenance, including ditch cleaning, debris removal, culvert assistance, and minor pipe repairs
• Install, repair, and maintain traffic signs, guardrails, and other roadside safety devices
• Perform other related duties as required

HIGHWAY TECHNICIAN II DUTIES:

• Operate and maintain a wide range of heavy and specialized equipment, including graders, backhoes, track hoes, bucket trucks, sweepers, and pavement marking equipment
• Perform advanced drainage work such as culvert replacement, pipe installation, ditch grading, and alignment of pipe using established methods and equipment
• Conduct skilled trade work including welding, concrete and masonry repair, and fabrication related to highway and bridge maintenance
• Fabricate, install, and maintain traffic signs and pavement markings in compliance with MUTCD and County standards
• Set up, modify, and remove work zones and traffic control devices in accordance with approved traffic control plans
• Perform other related duties as required

HIGHWAY TECHNICIAN III DUTIES:

• Lead, assign, and direct the work of crews on complex projects, specialty assignments, or emergency operations
• Operate highly specialized heavy equipment and machinery requiring, extensive experience, and technical expertise
• Assist Foremen and Assistant Foremen by providing work leadership, technical guidance, and operational support on assigned projects and emergency response activities
• Perform advanced roadway, bridge, and drainage work, including complex culvert installations, structural repairs, and precision grading
• Plan and coordinate daily work activities to ensure efficient use of labor, materials, and equipment
• Troubleshoot complex equipment, site, or construction issues and determine appropriate corrective actions
• Perform other related duties as required

To perform this job successfully, an employee must be able to perform all essential functions satisfactorily. Any employees position may not be assigned all functions or equipment listed above, and the examples may not cover all functions or equipment that may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

The qualifications/requirements, knowledge/skills/abilities and physical requirements or working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

HIGHWAY TECHNICIAN I REQUIREMENTS ($25.55 - $43.43 per hour):

• High school graduation or the equivalent
• Possession of a valid Commercial Class B drivers license, with possession of tanker endorsement
• Minimum 2 years work experience in highway maintenance, construction work, heavy equipment operation, or other related infrastructure maintenance
• NOTE: 2 years of full-time FCG Highway Operation work experience may substitute for the education requirement

HIGHWAY TECHNICIAN II REQUIREMENTS ($27.33 - $46.47 per hour)

• High school graduation or the equivalent
• Possession of a valid Class A Drivers license, with possession of tanker endorsement (NOTE: an O or E Restriction is acceptable)
• Minimum 4 years work experience in highway maintenance, construction work, heavy equipment operation, or other infrastructure maintenance
• Current possession of MD Sediment & Erosion Control Certification
• NOTE: 2 years of full-time FCG Highway Operation work experience may substitute for the education requirement

HIGHWAY TECHNICIAN III REQUIREMENTS ($29.25 - $49.73 per hour):

• High school graduation or the equivalent
• Possession of a valid Class A Drivers license, with possession of tanker endorsement (NOTE: an O or E Restriction is acceptable)
• Minimum 6 years work experience in highway maintenance, construction work, heavy equipment operation, or other infrastructure maintenance
• Current possession of MD Sediment & Erosion Control Certification and one of the following: Maryland Pesticide Applicator Certification or Maryland Roadside Tree Certification
• OSHA 30-Hour Training
• NOTE: 2 years of full-time FCG Highway Operation work experience may substitute for the education requirement

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES:

A successful incumbent operating in this role displays the following:

• Ability to complete OSHA 10-hour training within six (6) months of hire or promotion/upgrade for Highway Technician I
• Possession of MD Sediment and Erosion Control Certification within six (6) months of hire or promotion/upgrade for Highway Technician I or II
• Ability to complete OSHA 30-Hour Training within six (6) months of hire or promotion/upgrade for Highway Technician II
• Ability to complete the MD Welders certification, Traffic Control, IMSA Level 1 & 2 certification, Pavement Marking Technician, MD Roadside Tree Certification, or Pesticide within six (6) months of hire or upgrade depending on operational needs
• Working knowledge of the fabrication, installation and maintenance of traffic signs
• Basic knowledge of highway, bridge and drainage construction and maintenance, construction of roads and bridges, storm water management, site development, and subdivision projects
• Knowledge of the hazards associated with highway operations work, with ability to recognize and employ appropriate safety measures
• Knowledge of the hazards associated with fleet services and maintenance, with ability to recognize and employ appropriate safety measures
• Knowledge of traffic and safety rules and accident prevention
• Knowledge of State and County laws and regulations pertaining to the installation of traffic signs
• Knowledge of roadwork related materials (e.g. stone, blacktop, etc.)
• Knowledge of tools, materials, and equipment used in the fabrication, installation and maintenance of traffic signs, including knowledge of basic computer skills used in an automated fabrication process, along with the ability to learn and accurately enter data into the Sign Inventory System
• Effective written and spoken (English) communication skills to understand instructions and travel directions
• Ability to make minor adjustments to vehicles and equipment, with ability to recognize more serious mechanical problems in order to arrange for prompt repair and avoid safety hazards
• Ability to learn to safely utilize necessary equipment
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Frederick County Employee authorized driver privileges
• Ability to operate various light Highway equipment in a safe and effective manner
• Ability to operate computerized system to manufacture salt brine to required specifications
• Ability to effectively plan and provide guidance when working with others
• Ability to effectively read blueprints, diagrams, and operation and maintenance manuals
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public
• Ability to maintain or obtain required certifications and licenses
• Ability to obtain and maintain all licenses and certifications

PREFERENCE MAY BE GIVEN FOR:

• At least 1 year of work experience driving a commercial vehicle
• Traffic Control / IMSA Level 1 & 2 Certification
• Maryland Welder Certification
• Pavement Marking Technician Certification
• Maryland Roadside Tree Certification
• Maryland Pesticide Applicator Certification

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / WORKING CONDITIONS:

• While working in this position, the employee is required to constantly walking, moving, traversing, climbing, stooping, kneeling and crouching; frequently lifting up to and over 50 pounds, pushing and pulling up to and over 40 pounds, reaching, making repetitive motions and driving; and occasionally crawling
• While working in this position, the employee is required to constantly work outdoors, walk on uneven ground, is exposed to dirt, dust and noise, work near machinery and is required to wear protective equipment; frequently work in hot temperatures (above 100 degrees) and cold temperatures (below 32 degrees); and occasionally work at heights and is exposed to chemicals and fumes.
• Physical requirements include the ability to climb ladders and rough terrain, to use tools and equipment such as those listed above and to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods of time in any weather conditions.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / EXAMINATION PROCESS

• Employees in this classification are designated as Essential. An Essential Employee means the employee is considered necessary for the operation of County services. Essential Employees are required to report to work in the event of a weather incident, general emergency, or disasters when County offices are closed. They may be required to work overtime with little or no advance notice and may be required to report to work in emergency situations and/or after hours.
• Required certifications and licenses must be maintained throughout employment. Loss of required certification and/or license may result in position downgrade or termination
• This position is subject to post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return to duty and random drug and alcohol testing

EXAMINATION PROCESS (may include):

• An evaluation of training and experience
• One or more interviews
• A behind the wheel driving test
• A pre-employment DOT physical examination and DOT drug test

Frederick County Government is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding workplace accommodation, including for individuals with disabilities. Applicants who require reasonable accommodation during the application and hiring process may contact the Talent Acquisition section of Human Resources. Inquiries about accommodations can be sent to Recruitment@FrederickCountyMD.gov

Retirement Plan:

A defined benefit retirement plan is provided for all regular County employees. Employees are automatically enrolled in either the Uniformed Plan (5 year vesting) or the Non-Uniformed Plan (5 year vesting, effective 07/01/2024) depending upon position classification. The majority of support for the plan is provided by the County; however, employees are required to make a mandatory pre-tax contribution towards their benefit. Retirement benefits are payable at normal, early or delayed retirement. Retirement benefits are also payable upon termination and in the event of death or disability.

Health Insurance:

County employees have a choice of two medical insurance plans, an In-Network (HMO) Plan or a High Deductible medical plan with a Health Care Savings Account, to provide coverage for medical and surgical expenses, hospital and emergency care expenses, mental health expenses and prescription drugs. The County and participants share in the cost of the health insurance with the employee having the benefit of pre tax contribution deductions. Medical insurance goes into effect on the first day of active employment.

Dental Insurance:

Employees may select coverage from one of three dental plan options, ranging from a PPO plan to a dental HMO plan. Coverage includes preventive care, fillings, crowns, bridges and dentures, and the cost of dental insurance is shared by both the County and the employee. Dental insurance goes into effect on the first day of the month that follows the eligible employees completion of 30 days of active employment

NOTE: Employees working 75% or greater of a 35 or 40 hour position are eligible for health & dental insurance.

Flexible Spending Accounts:

The Flex Spending plan allows employees to pay health and day care expenses with pre-tax dollars. Employees may set aside part of their salary in a special account that can be used throughout the year to reimburse themselves for out-of-pocket medical expenses. The maximum contribution is $3,400 per year for Health Care Spending and $7,500 for Dependent Care Spending (work-related day care expenses). Examples of expenses that can be reimbursed for Health Care Spending include, but are not limited to: deductibles, co-payments, dental fees, chiropractors services, and eyeglasses / contact lenses.

Life Insurance:

Employees are insured for 2 times their annual salary in case of death plus 2 times their annual salary for accidental death. Employees do not contribute to the premiums for this coverage. A Supplemental Life Insurance is also offered to regular County employees. The plan allows employees to purchase individually owned term life insurance for themselves, their spouse, and their dependents.

Savings Plan - Deferred Compensation:

The County offers a Section 457 Plan. Deferred compensation plans allow participants to save for retirement in either a pre tax or post tax (Roth) investment account. Contributions are invested at the employees direction into one or more of the variety of investment options offered by the plan. Changes may be made to the contribution levels, investment options, etc. at any time. Contribution maximums are set each year by the IRS.

Educational Reimbursement Program:

County employees who have successfully passed their probationary period may apply for education reimbursement for courses that can improve or develop an employees capabilities related to their current job or for a promotional opportunity within Frederick County Government. The benefit also covers the costs of job-related non-credit courses. If the employee receives a grade of at least a C, or successfully passes a non-credit course, the County reimburses the employee 75% of the costs of tuition, fees and books. If an employee doesnt remain employed with Frederick County Government for two years after a class is taken, the benefit needs to be reimbursed to FCG.

Employee Assistance Program:

This confidential assessment, referral and counseling service is available at no cost to all employees who may need help with a personal or job-related issue or concern.

Leave

Annual Leave - Employees are eligible to use Annual Leave after their 6 month probationary period. Annual Leave accrues as follows: Years of service days per year

0 - 2 years 11 days

2 - 10 years 17 days

10 + years 24 days

Sick Leave - Employees will earn sick leave at a rate of 15 days per calendar year.

Sick Leave may also be used for illness of an employees child, dependent, spouse, parent or parent-in-law. There is no limit on the amount of sick leave accumulated. Unused Sick Leave may be used for additional credit in the pension plan at the time of retirement.

NOTE: Regular benefited part-time employees earn annual and sick leave on a pro-rated basis based on their actual number of hours worked biweekly up to their assigned number of regularly scheduled work hours.

Other available types of leave include, but are not limited to, Family Medical Leave, Bereavement, Jury, and Military.

Holidays:

The County observes 10 holidays every year and 11 are observed on years of General Elections.

For additional information on Frederick County Governments benefits package, please visit the Division of Human Resources website at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov.

All hires before January 1, 2012, will follow the all benefit and leave rules as described in the Personnel Rules amended October 3, 2013.

01

Your application, which includes any associated supplemental questions, must be complete at the time of submission and must clearly articulate the required work experience relevant to the position for which you are applying. The experience you indicate in your responses to the supplemental questions must also be described, in detail, on the Work History section of this application. Your application may be considered incomplete if vague descriptions of experience are included or if you cite experience in your supplemental question response that is not included on the Work History section of this application. When considering work history, 1 year of employment = 2,080 hours. If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience based on the information submitted, or if you state "see resume" as your response, you will not be considered further.

• I have read and acknowledge the above instructions.

02

Have you earned a high school diploma or the equivalency?

• Yes
• No

03

Which best describes your drivers license status?

• Possession of a valid Commercial Class B drivers license
• Possession of a valid Commercial Class A drivers license
• Possession of a valid Commercial Class A drivers license with O Restriction
• I do not possess any of the above license options

04

Do you have possession of either listed endorsements? (Please select all that apply)

• I currently possess the airbrake endorsement
• I currently possess the tanker endorsement
• I do not possess either listed endorsement at this time

05

How many years of work experience in highway maintenance, construction work, heavy equipment operation, or other related infrastructure maintenance do you have?

• Less than 2 years or work experience
• 2 years of work experience
• 3 years of work experience
• 4 years of work experience
• 5 years of work experience
• 6 or more years of work experience

06

Please provide details regarding that work history in the text area below. The work history details provided should include the employer or organization name, dates of employment/service and the duties you performed. NOTE: If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience, based on the information submitted, you will not be granted the requirement.

07

Do you have at least 1 year of work experience driving a commercial vehicle?

• Yes
• No

08

Please provide details regarding that work history in the text area below. The work history details provided should include the employer or organization name, dates of employment/service and the duties you performed. NOTE: When considering work history, 1 year of employment = 2,080 hours. If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience, based on the information submitted, you will not be considered further.

09

Do you have current possession of MD Sediment & Erosion Control certification?

• Yes
• No

10

Which best describes your current OSHA Outreach Training Program construction industry training completion?

• I have completed OHSA Outreach Training Program 10 hour construction industry training
• I have completed OHSA Outreach Training Program 30 hour construction industry training
• I have not completed either training and can do so within 6 months of hire

11

Are you willing and able to perform tree work on an elevated platform up to 75 feet high?

• Yes
• No

12

Do you have at least 2 years of full-time FCG Highway Operation work experience?

• Yes
• No

13

Please select the certifications you currently possess (select all that apply):

• Traffic Control / IMSA Level 1 & 2 Certification
• Maryland Welder Certification
• Pavement Marking Technician Certification
• Maryland Roadside Tree Certification
• Maryland Pesticide Applicator Certification
• I do not currently possess any of the listed certifications

Required Question

Employer Frederick County Government

Address 12 East Church Street

Frederick, Maryland, 21701

Phone 301-600-1070

Website http://www.FrederickCountymd.gov/jobs