Professional Highway Maintainer apprenticeship available across Colorado

Statewide - The Colorado Department of Transportation is encouraging people who are interested in a public safety career to apply for a position through a new maintenance apprenticeship program.

The position is a two-year paid mentorship in Colorado and includes both hands-on and classroom training. An apprentice will earn their Commercial Driver’s License and qualify as a Highway Maintenance Specialist. Starting pay is $16 per hour and includes full benefits worth nearly $16,700 per year, 11 paid holidays, paid leave, and a retirement package.

A candidate must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. The apprentice will train and specialize in either maintenance, tunnel operations or traffic and safety.

• Bayfield/Durango: This position is based at 650 U.S.160B, Bayfield, CO 81121
• Grand Junction: This position is based at 2330 G Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81505
• Greeley: This position is based at 10601 10th St., Greeley, CO 80634
• Hanging Lake Tunnel: Staff works rotating shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays. An HLT apprentice works this schedule in coordination with their mentor. In addition, van transportation to and from the HLT is available for those living in or near Grand Junction, DeBeque, Parachute, Rifle, Glenwood Springs and No Name.
• Morrison: This position is based at 12400 U.S. 285, Morrison, CO 80465
• Pueblo: This position is based at 10 Monarch Lane, Pueblo, CO 81004

To view the full announcement and submit an application, go to: http://careers.codot.gov and type “apprentice” in the search bar. The application close date is Sept. 7, 2022.

“We’ve designed this program so that it not only provides the necessary hands-on training and experience for those who would like to pursue a long-term career in public service, but also build up their qualifications for professional advancement,” said CDOT’s Director of Maintenance and Operations John Lorme. “And along with earning while you’re learning, an apprentice eventually will provide CDOT with a highly skilled employee who’s serving the traveling public.”

Once an apprentice successfully completes one year of the program and receives a CDL license, they will be eligible for a pay increase. At the end of two years, a successful apprentice may qualify for a permanent, fully operational Highway Maintenance Specialist position, which provides another pay increase upon promotion. Additional opportunities for career advancement in both leadership and technical tracks throughout the state should be anticipated.

More information on benefits is available here: https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-of-colorado-employee-benefits

In June, Gov. Polis signed an Executive Order to increase the number of apprentices in state agencies and departments, allowing individuals to obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally recognized, portable credential.