PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

CDL Operator Trainee

Start your career with PennDOT as a CDL Operator Trainee and help keep Pennsylvania moving! The Department of Transportation provides a supportive environment where you learn to operate important equipment. You will grow your abilities while working on meaningful projects that serve communities. This role gives you the chance to develop confidence and take on new challenges! Check out this video for more information!

This position provides hands-on training that prepares you for operating heavy equipment and performing maintenance duties on highways and bridges. The role supports safe and efficient transportation operations across the state. As a CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other construction equipment safely and effectively
• Safety Practices: Follow proper safety procedures and use protective gear to maintain a safe work environment
• Tool Operation: Use motorized and non-motorized tools such as shovels, rakes, hammers, and chain saws to support maintenance tasks
• Vehicle Checks: Perform and document pre-operation and post-operation inspections to ensure safe and efficient equipment performance
• Worksite Awareness: Observe surroundings and assist in identifying hazards to protect coworkers and the traveling 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.
• Dual shifts, overtime, and travel may be required. Work hours subject to seasonal change.
• 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.

Required Experience, Training & Eligibility

Qualifications

Special Requirements:

• You must possess 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.