PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Penndot Cdl Operator Trainee

Are you ready to begin a rewarding hands-on career that helps keep Pennsylvania moving while you learn to operate essential highway equipment? Take the first step toward a rewarding future as a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. In this role, you will learn to use highway maintenance equipment and support roadway operations in all seasons. You will develop practical skills through real work experience and structured training. Apply today to become part of a team that values dedication, safety, and strong public service!

This six-month training position teaches you how to operate highway equipment, follow safety procedures, and support maintenance crews across Pennsylvania. Within this role, you will receive hands-on instruction, complete required training, and learn the work rules and practices needed for success. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Learn to operate trucks, loaders, and other construction equipment safely and correctly
• Perform roadway maintenance work using tools such as shovels, rakes, saws, and tampers
• Complete required pre and post operation checks and make basic adjustments to equipment
• Follow safety procedures, observe work areas, and report hazards, injuries, and accidents
• Apply environmental protection rules during maintenance activities
• Install tire chains, use vehicle controls, and handle equipment in ways that reduce wear

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.
• You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• 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:

• This position requires possession of an active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• 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.
• All employees must possess an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit at the time of application.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• 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 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.