PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee; Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee

Become a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Department of Transportation, where you will receive the training needed to work safely and confidently on road crews. This position helps you build experience operating heavy equipment and performing important maintenance tasks. You will work outdoors, learn from experienced staff and take steps toward full certification. This is a great chance to grow your skills and support safe travel across the state.

Watch the video for more information.

This position provides hands‑on training in equipment operation and highway maintenance while preparing you for required licenses and certifications. You will learn about safety practices, equipment procedures, and work tasks alongside an experienced crew. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training:
  Learn to operate trucks, loaders, and other machinery used in highway and bridge maintenance.
• Safety Practices:
  Follow proper safety procedures, use protective equipment, and stay aware of hazards on the job site.
• Manual Tasks:
  Carry out physical labor using tools such as shovels, rakes, chain saws, and tampers.
• Vehicle Checks:
  Perform pre and post operation inspections and make basic adjustments to equipment.
• Environmental Duties:
  Apply environmental protection requirements during maintenance activities.
• Field Reporting:
  Report equipment issues, safety concerns and work conditions to supervisors.

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

• 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 required. Work hours subject to change based on 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 $41,526 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

• 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.

• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

• 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).
• 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. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

• Pennsylvania law provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state…