PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Penndot Cdl Operator Trainee

Are you ready to launch a meaningful career as a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)? In this role, you will receive comprehensive training to operate heavy equipment and learn how to support important maintenance work that keeps roadways safe for everyone. You will develop strong practical skills while working alongside experienced team members. Apply today to take the first step towards a rewarding career in public service! Check out this video for more information!

This is a six-month trainee position in which you will receive training in equipment operation, safety practices, and roadway maintenance tasks. You will learn how to support highway crews while developing the skills needed for full certification. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Train to operate trucks, loaders, and other construction equipment used in roadway maintenance
• Tool Use: Learn to use motorized and non-motorized tools to support tasks such as patching, clearing brush, and repairing structures
• Safety Awareness: Follow safety procedures, observe work areas, and report hazards, injuries, or unsafe practices
• Operational Checks: Perform pre-operation and post-operation inspections and make basic adjustments to equipment
• Worksite Support: Assist with manual labor tasks and help maintain a safe environment for coworkers and the public
• Environmental Compliance: Carry out environmental protection steps required during maintenance activities

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Travel, overtime, and shift work may be required. Work hours are subject to change based upon seasonal requirements and operational needs.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

Qualifications

Special Requirements:

• This position requires possession of an active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• All employees must possess an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit on the first day of work.
• All positions require employees to possess an active Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations by the first day of work.

Additional Requirements:

• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Qualifications (not required):

• Ability to demonstrate successful operation of equipment with a manual transmission.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass a background investigation.

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).
• 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.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

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 on Veterans.

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.