PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Start your career in highway maintenance with a hands-on role that helps keep Pennsylvania’s roads safe and ready for travel! As a Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee in Mercer County, you will learn to operate powerful equipment, work outdoors, and build valuable skills that can lead to long-term growth with PennDOT. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys physical work, teamwork, and learning new tools and techniques. Join a crew that makes a real difference for drivers across the region.

Check out this videofor more information!

In this role, you will train to operate highway equipment and perform a variety of maintenance tasks that support safe and reliable roadways. You will learn proper safety practices, equipment operation, and environmental responsibilities while working alongside experienced crew members.

• Learn Equipment Operation: Train to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other machinery, and complete required pre- and post-operation checks.
• Use Hand and Power Tools: Practice using shovels, rakes, chainsaws, jackhammers, mowers, and other tools to complete roadway and bridge maintenance tasks.
• Perform Manual Labor: Help clean culverts, cut brush and grass, repair guiderails, dig ditches, and support other maintenance activities.
• Follow Safety Procedures: Use protective gear, stay aware of hazards, report injuries or accidents immediately, and help maintain a safe work zone.
• Make Basic Adjustments: Learn to make simple field adjustments and minor equipment care to support safe and efficient operation.
• Support Environmental Practices: Follow environmental protection requirements and complete training related to environmental management.

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: Selected candidates who are new to employment within 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.

QUALIFICATIONS

Special Requirements:

• This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver’s License or equivalent.
• This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner’s Permit on the first day of work.
• This position requires possession of a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations on the first day of work.
• This position requires employees to demonstrate successful operation of equipment with a manual transmission.

Legal Requirements: 

• You must pass a background investigation.

• 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. 

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 

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.