Human Resources Professionals

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With a wave of retirements hitting the industry, you know that recruiting new people into transportation maintenance careers is a pressing challenge. HR professionals from across the state have shared that—no surprise—applicants are most interested in pay. It's difficult to compete with private-sector positions on pay alone. However, highlighting the entire compensation package—benefits, more predictable schedules, and work/life balance afforded by public-sector positions—appeals to people of all backgrounds looking to make a better life for themselves and their families.   

Skilling up to success 

Adult jobseekers and students have indicated they believe roadway maintenance positions have more training requirements than is often the case. For positions where specialized training or licensure (such as a CDL) can be acquired while working with the support of your agency, this is recognized as a definite benefit. Training opportunities abound across the state—work with your public works team to identify a development track using this training guide.   

Peer agencies across the state have developed recruiting, training, and development programs and plans with their transportation/public works teams. Have a look a some of their case studies for ideas and inspiration!

Check out or submit case studies

Getting the word out without sounding like 'the government' 

Jobseekers shared that applying for jobs in the public sector seems "complicated." Job titles and language used in descriptions can reinforce that impression—working titles and plain language can be more approachable. Check out this job board for examples of postings, including those shared through professional associations and organizations.

Posting on your website and employment sites like Indeed is a necessity for job searches, but word of mouth still rules the day when it comes to identifying new hires. Raise awareness about opportunities— and public works careers in general—with your networks using social media posts, and encourage your co-workers and colleagues to do the same. This collection of videos by the LRRB about transportation maintenance careers includes shorter versions for easy promotion on social media.  

Take a deeper dive

Read the LRRB research report findings including summaries of discussions with students, CDL holders working in other fields and adult jobseekers, and HR professionals about recruiting and retaining transportation maintenance professionals.