PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Becoming a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Department of Transportation is your chance to start a hands-on career that supports safe and reliable travel for communities. This role gives you the opportunity to learn valuable equipment and roadway skills in a supportive team setting. Every day offers a new way to build confidence and experience. Apply today and join a team that values your growth and commitment.

This role prepares you for essential highway maintenance and equipment operation responsibilities that support safe travel across the state. You will learn technical skills, workplace procedures, and safety practices throughout the 6 month training period. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other roadway machinery
• Safety Practices: Follow established safety procedures and use proper protective equipment
• Manual Labor Skills: Perform roadway and bridge maintenance tasks using motorized and non-motorized hand tools
• Equipment Checks: Conduct and document pre and post operation inspections and complete needed adjustments
• Environmental Compliance: Carry out environmental protection and management requirements related to maintenance work

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.
• Overtime, travel, and shift work may be required. Work hours are 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 within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $41,526.00 (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:

• Must possess an active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• Must possess an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit by the first day of work.
• Must possess a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations by the first day of work.
• This position requires the operation of vehicles or equipment with a manual transmission within the probationary period.

• 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 www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html 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.

Salary : $41,526 - $46,924