PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

The Position

As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will take the first steps toward earning important certifications and learning how to operate heavy equipment. This position gives you structured training and steady guidance from experienced team members. You will gain valuable skills that help you work safely and effectively on maintenance crews. This is an excellent path for someone who wants a strong start in public service. Check out this video for more information!

This trainee position helps you learn how to operate highway maintenance equipment while becoming familiar with safety rules, work practices, and reporting procedures. You will build skills through hands-on tasks that support daily maintenance operations. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate trucks, loaders, and other equipment used in maintenance work
• Tool Usage: Use hand tools and power tools to complete basic labor tasks safely and correctly
• Safety Practices: Follow safety procedures, use protective gear, and report hazards or incidents
• Equipment Checks: Perform basic inspections, adjustments, and documentation for assigned equipment
• Work Area Awareness: Stay alert to hazards and help maintain a safe environment for crews and the public

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.
• Overtime, travel, and shift work may be required. Dual shifts in effect November through March.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $42,347 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

Required Experience, Training & Eligibility

Qualifications

Special Requirements:

• This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit with the Air Brake Restriction (L) removed on the first day of work.
• This position requires possession of a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations on the first day of work.
• This position requires employees to demonstrate successful operation of equipment with a manual transmission within probationary period.
• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.

Additional Requirement:

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

Legal Requirements:

• A conditional offer of employment will require a drug screening.
• A conditional offer of employment will require submission of criminal history reports. See hiring agency contact information.

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.