Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee

The Position

Are you ready to begin a hands-on path toward becoming a skilled equipment mechanic? As a Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), you will train alongside experienced staff to learn essential mechanical skills. This position introduces you to the full range of tasks needed to maintain and repair cars, trucks, and heavy equipment. Every day brings new opportunities to work with tools, solve problems, and build confidence in your abilities. This is a great starting point for a long-term career in equipment maintenance and public service!

Description Of Work

This role focuses on learning how to maintain, inspect, and repair vehicles and construction equipment through supervised training. You will develop mechanical skills while working on engines, systems, and parts that support transportation operations. As a Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Repair: Assist with repairing cars, trucks, and heavy machinery and help replace worn or damaged parts
• Preventative Maintenance: Participate in routine servicing tasks that keep vehicles and equipment operating safely
• Mechanical Diagnostics: Learn to identify problems with engines, systems, and components using diagnostic tools and procedures
• State Inspections: Support safety and emissions inspections by performing repairs and documenting results
• Safety Practices: Follow safety procedures, maintain a clean work area, and learn to recognize and address hazards
• Field Adjustments: Help complete adjustments and repairs in the field to ensure safe operation and reduce wear

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

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 are 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: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $48,802.00 (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

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Two years as a Tradesman Helper (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration) working in the automotive field; or
• Graduation from a post-high school diesel technology curriculum of an accredited trade or technical school; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Special Requirements:

• This position requires possession of an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit or License on the first day of employment.
• This position requires possession of an active Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations on the first day of employment.
• This position requires possession of an active Pennsylvania Class 1, Class 4, or Class 7 Inspection Mechanic Certification during the probationary period.
• All positions will require employees to obtain a valid Pennsylvania Class 1, 4, or 7 Inspection Mechanic Certification during the probationary period.
• This position requires employees to pass the Department of Transportation's New Mechanic Training course during the probationary period.

Additional Requirements:

• This position requires possession of an active Tank Vehicle Endorsement (N) during the probationary period.
• This position requires operation of vehicles or equipment with a manual transmission.
• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• 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. 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.

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.