OHIO — Winter might not be of concern right now, considering Ohio is a few weeks away from its first snow, but the Ohio Department of Transportation is already prepping for the season and is looking to fill 500 positions. 

During most snow events, ODOT has more than 3,300 drivers often working 12-hour shifts. While many are full-time drivers, ODOT also hires auxillary drivers, who help with other tasks and plow when needed. There are also a group of drivers who are hired seasonally. 

“Like every other employer right now, we are struggling to find qualified workers to fill these positions this year,” said ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks in a press release. “We’re doing everything we can to recruit the help we need to supplement our winter operations, but we do have concerns about finding drivers and mechanics in this challenging job market.”

ODOT said its goal is the same as last winter: To have primary routes back up to speed within two hours and 4 hours for secondary routes at the end of each snow event. ODOT hit 95% of that goal last year, but is worried that if positions don't get filled, it may be tough to achieve this year. 

“Our men and women take great pride in ensuring you have the safest conditions possible to get where you need to go and that will never change. What might, unfortunately, change is the speed with which we’re able to accomplish that important task,” Marchbanks said.

This year, the Farmer's Almanac predicts a "bone-chilling" winter for Ohio. The Almanac said it expects the state to have one of its longest, coldest winters in years with snow and below-freezing temperatures. 

The "Lower Lakes" region, which includes northern Ohio, will be cold and dry, according to the Almanac. Much of the Ohio Valley could see more snow than usual. 

The Farmer's Almanac claims to have 80% accuracy. Last year, most of its predictions were around 70% correct.