PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee

Join the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in Sullivan County and learn the skills that support safe and reliable travel. This role provides hands-on training with important equipment used for roadway maintenance. You will gain experience that prepares you for future advancement while contributing to essential public services. Apply today to join the PennDOT team as a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee and start developing the skills you need to secure a long-term transportation career!

Within this role, you will participate in a six-month training program in which you will learn the specialized duties of a Transportation Equipment Operator A. This trainee position introduces you to the tools, equipment, and safe work practices used in highway and bridge maintenance. You will learn the skills needed to operate machinery, complete manual labor tasks, and follow proper procedures. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Train for Licensing: Train for licensing and equipment certification to operate specified heavy equipment
• Perform Checks: Perform and document pre and post operation checks
• Operate Controls: Operate hand and foot controls and install and remove tire chains
• Complete Manual Tasks: Complete manual labor tasks using tools such as shovels, rakes, compressors, and saws
• Maintain Safety: Maintain a safe work environment and report observations and incidents
• Follow Requirements: Follow environmental protection and management requirements

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. Work hours are subject to change based upon seasonal requirements and operational needs.
• Dual shifts will be in effect from 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 $42,347.00 (before taxes).
• 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.
• This position requires employees to demonstrate successful operation of equipment with a manual transmission within the probationary period.

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.

Legal Requirements:

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

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.