PAINTED POST, N.Y. (WENY) -- The New York State Department of Transportation is pulling out all the stops in preparation for keeping the roads safe this winter. They're now hoping to bring on a handful of new employees ready for a battle of the elements.  

“We are having our salt barns filled, so they're filled and ready to go at this point,” Jim Rusak, NYSDOT Southern Tier Regional Director, said, adding, “This time of year, we're getting plows and wings back on the trucks and making sure all of the equipment is working in good condition.” 

With the first snowflakes flying in New York on Wednesday, New York's Department of Transportation is in full swing with snow and ice preparations. In addition to preparing their fleet, they're looking to fill over 30 full-time positions in the Western Southern Tier Region to help combat the winter weather.   

“Our transportation maintenance staff and mechanics are the heart of everything that we do,” Condie said. “It’s because of their efforts you can all get to work and our kids can get to school safely each day throughout the year. If it snows tomorrow, our crews will be ready to clear the roads and we will continue to bring on new team members.”   

Ted Condie is one DOT employee whose been tackling projects out in the elements for 15 years. He says keeping drivers safe on state roads brings him joy.   

“I have the honor and pleasure to be part of an outstanding team here at New York State DOT,” Condie said. “There is a great deal of satisfaction knowing the work we do is beneficial to our communities.”   

People can learn more about the jobs available with the NYSDOT online.