Despite freezing temperatures and raging snowstorms, you love winter. The proof? You’re in seventh heaven, even when all the other drivers are tearing their hair out because the roads are covered in snow.
Why not become a snow removal contractor? Kill two birds with one stone by helping out the roads and enjoying the most beautiful snowstorms firsthand.
How do I become a snow removal contractor?
Besides being willing to drive a heavy vehicle in extreme weather conditions, all you need is a valid driver's licence for the type of vehicle you’ll be operating, like a regular truck, snowplow or salt spreader. However, if you’re seeking employment at a municipality’s public works department, you may need to have a high school diploma or experience as a public service worker. In that case, on-the-job training is usually provided, and new snow removal contractors are often accompanied by experienced coworkers.
Important work
Clearing snow from the roads, just like salting and sanding, is important for keeping traffic moving safely. So every winter, the roads, highways and parking lots get stripped of their white coats by snow removers who operate snowplows, trucks equipped with plow blades or salt and sand spreaders.
If you like being your own boss, then this is a dream job. You can distribute leaflets to get new customers and leave your business card with merchants. If you become a snow removal contractor who receives contracts from the municipal government, word of mouth about your excellent and prompt service will bring ample reward down the (soon-to-be-cleared) road.
Some patience is required
Unfortunately, not everyone loves confronting winter head-on like you do, so it’s quite likely that your patience will be put to the test. In addition to the adverse road conditions inherent in the job, you may need to deal with impatient drivers (who’ll often interfere with your work) as well as with people who don’t comply with no-parking signs on days when snow removal operations are in full force. And that's not counting the recycling bins and garbage cans that will be constantly in your way.
At the mercy of Mother Nature
Becoming a snow removal contractor means being willing to accept an irregular work schedule. That’s right, Mother Nature doesn’t give two hoots about the traditional 9 to 5 work day. She’ll deliver snowstorms and freezing rain whenever it suits her, day or night. In other words, “be prepared” is going to be your motto, just like the Scouts.
