Automotive Mechanic Intern (High School)

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania; Laporte (Sullivan County); On-site; USD 21,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Transportation, is offering an Automotive Mechanic Intern position in Sullivan County, PA. The role provides hands-on training in diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance within a PennDOT garage.

You will assist mechanics and operators while developing technical and communication skills in a team-oriented setting. Ideal candidates are high school students in automotive or diesel programs, who will gain real-world experience with tools and repair methods

Qualifications

• Internship requirements: must be at least 16 years old at time of hire.
• During 2026-27 school year, you must be a high school or vo-tech junior or senior in an automotive or diesel program.
• Letter of Recommendation from school co-op coordinator, guidance counselor, or similar school professional.
• Work Permit: minors must submit upon acceptance.

Responsibilities

• Diagnostic support: connect laptops to equipment to identify issues and plan repairs.
• Repair assistance: work with diesel mechanics on engines, brakes, hydraulics, electrical systems.
• Safety practices: follow safety rules and attend daily talks.
• Communication: share information with mechanics and supervisors and listen to operator concerns.
• Maintenance tasks: perform oil changes, replace filters, inspect belts/hoses, lubricate systems.
• Electrical testing: check circuits and diagnose charging problems.

Job description

Salary

$17.88 Hourly

Location

Sullivan County, PA

Job Type

Internship

Job Number

N-2026-58551

Department

Department of Transportation

Division

TR Sullivan Co

Opening Date

09/15/2026

Closing Date

10/4/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Job Code

U2540

Position Number

50534986

Union

Non Union

Bargaining Unit

98

Pay Group

XH28

Bureau / Division Code

00080360

Bureau / Division

Transportation - Sullivan County Maintenance Organization

Worksite Address

322 Park Street

City

Laporte, Pennsylvania

Zip Code

18626

Contact Name

Carolyn Kilburn

Contact Phone

570.368.4289

Contact Email

[e-mail]

THE POSITION

Are you a high school student looking for a hands‑on way to jumpstart your future in automotive repair while learning from experienced professionals? As an Automotive Mechanic Intern with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), you will gain valuable experience using tools, technology, and repair methods used in professional garages. This opportunity is ideal for students who enjoy teamwork and practical learning. Here, you will assist mechanics, operators, and garage staff while developing strong technical and communication skills. Apply today to learn how to help keep important fleet vehicles safe, dependable, and ready for use!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position provides hands‑on training in diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance tasks within a PennDOT garage. Within this role, you will have the opportunity to build your technical knowledge while supporting mechanics and operators. As an Automotive Mechanic Intern, you will perform the following duties:

• Diagnostic Support: Connect laptops to equipment to identify issues and assist in planning repairs
• Repair Assistance: Work with diesel mechanics on engines, brakes, hydraulics, electrical systems, and more
• Safety Practices: Follow safety rules, attend daily safety talks, and maintain proper protective equipment
• Communication Duties: Share information with mechanics and supervisors and listen to operator concerns
• Maintenance Tasks: Perform oil changes, replace filters, inspect belts and hoses, lubricate systems, and inspect tire and wheel assemblies
• Electrical Testing: Check electrical circuits and diagnose charging problems

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Work schedule will vary based on the agreement between high school and COPA location.
• Senior enrolled in High School 2026-2027 - The internship would be available through the 2026-2027 school year.
• Junior enrolled in High School 2026-2027 - The internship could be available through the 2026-2027 school year, summer 2027, and 2027-2028 school year
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position
• 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

Internship Requirements:

• You must be at least 16 years of age at time of hire.
• During the 2026-27 school year, you must be a high school or vo-tech (career and technical center) junior or senior in an in an automotive or diesel program that has provided preparation and training for the duties of this internship

Additional Requirements:

• Letter of Recommendation: You must attach a Letter of Recommendation from your school's co-op coordinator, career or guidance counselor, or similar designated school professional indicating you meet your school's requirements and are being recommended for this opportunity.
• By participating in this program, the student and school agree to use the Commonwealth's Training Plan, Statement of Responsibilities, and Student Performance Evaluation. Forms will be provided to the student upon acceptance of this position.
• Work Permit: Minors will be required to submit their Work Permit upon acceptance of this position.
• 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.

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).

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.