2026 Summer Employment Program - PennDOT (Non-Student)

The Position

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is seeking hard-working individuals for employment from early April through October for the Summer Employment Program! Apply today if you enjoy working in an active, fast-paced environment with the potential for promotion into a permanent position! Opportunities exist statewide, or in many counties paid at the hourly rates indicated:

• Custodial Worker 1 ($18.05)
• Highway Maintenance Worker ($17.38)
• Semi-Skilled Laborer ($18.46)
• Transportation Equipment/CDL Operator ($23.00)

Because most positions work outside, there may be instances when work will occur in adverse weather conditions. Opportunities are based upon operational needs, so there may not be open positions for each job title in every county. View PennDOT's District map to see where your home county lies.

Description of Work and Required Experience, Training & Eligibility:

Custodial Worker

As a Custodial Worker, you will perform a variety of tasks of a routine nature in connection with cleaning functions. You will utilize custodial supplies and modern cleaning equipment, wash, wax, dust, and polish floors, furniture, and fixtures. You will be responsible for cleaning and sanitizing all restrooms, restocking supplies and keep clean the inside and outside and around building when and where needed. Your attention to detail and commitment to creating a clean and safe environment will contribute to the overall satisfaction and well-being of our staff and visitors.

• To be eligible, you must have:
• Previous custodial and janitorial experience preferred, but not required.
• Must have the ability to lift and move heavy objects of a reasonable weight.

Highway Maintenance Worker

As a Highway Maintenance Worker, you will perform manual labor duties on highway maintenance and construction projects, assist permanent sign crews with tasks such as erecting and maintaining traffic signs and delineators, and related tasks at work sites along the highway. This is an integral position within our organization, as the upkeep of our road infrastructure plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and safety of our communities.

• To be eligible, you must have:
• No previous experience or training required.
• Must have the ability to lift and move heavy objects of a reasonable weight.

Semi-Skilled Laborer

As a Semi-Skilled Laborer, you will perform manual work in the construction and maintenance of various buildings, grounds, or public works projects. This position requires a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently as part of a team.

• To be eligible, you must have:
• One year of experience in laboring work including the use of tools and equipment used in maintenance or construction.
• Condition of Employment: Certain positions may require possession of a valid Class C Pennsylvania's Driver's License.

Equipment Operator/CDL Operator

As a CDL Operator, you will perform a variety of duties during the summer season, such as supporting duties to the bridge inspection and crane crew, line painting, traffic control, equipment repair and maintenance, guide rail repair, and truck unloading.

• To be eligible, you must have:
• Successful completion of the Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee Program (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• Graduation from a Commercial Driver's License Training School; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.
• Special Requirements: Possession of an active PA Class A or B CDL or equivalent with the Air Brake (L) Restriction removed; certain positions require that the E or O restriction is removed.
• All candidates will be subject to a driving skills test as part of the interview process. The majority of these tests will be conducted on vehicles with manual transmissions.
• Possession of an active Medical Examination Certificate is required.

Additional Requirements:

• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to and click the Veterans' Preference tab or contact us at View email address on click.appcast.io.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

Benefits

Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this short video!

See the total value of your benefits package by exploring our benefits calculator. Health & Wellness

We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.

Compensation & Financial Planning

We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options.

Work/Life Balance

We know there's more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.

Values and Culture

We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.

Employee Perks

Sometimes, it is the little "extras" that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships. For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visit and click on the benefits box. Eligibility rules apply.