The first hard freeze is now in the books, and the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) is ready for what comes next. In the last several weeks, the DOT has been focused on preparing for the winter season, keeping the state’s roadways as clear as possible and to providing motorists with the information they need to make smarter, safer travel decisions. The department’s 101 maintenance garages employ 1,083 full-time equipment operators, mechanics and supervisors. They will also hire up to 633 temporary, seasonal employees this winter to keep the agency’s 902 trucks, 42 motor graders, 32 plows and 11 heavy-duty, self-propelled snowblowers on the roads. Those interested in temporary, part-time “snowfighter” positions can get more information and submit an application at https://iowadot.gov/careers.