Automotive Mechanic Intern (High School)

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 32,000 - 43,000; Part time

Job summary

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation invites high school students to join as Automotive Mechanic Interns in Union County, PA. You’ll gain hands-on experience with diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance under seasoned technicians, assisting with engines, transmissions, brakes, and electrical systems.

The program emphasizes teamwork, safety, and practical learning, with weekend and summer options and a schedule aligned to the student’s school year.

Qualifications

• Be at least 16 years old at time of hire.
• Be a high school or vo-tech junior or senior in an automotive or diesel program for 2026-27.

Responsibilities

• Assist mechanics, operators and garage staff with diagnostics and repairs.
• Perform maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, belts/hoses checks.
• Support safety practices and use PPE; follow shop safety talks.

Skills

Age 16+

HS junior/senior in auto/diesel

Job description

$17.88 Hourly

Union County, PA

Internship

N-2026-57440

Department of Transportation

TR Union Co

09/02/2026

9/21/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

U2540

50674216

Non Union

98

XH28

00080380

Transportation - Union County Maintenance Organization

612 Fairground Road

Lewisburg, Pennsylvania

17837

Shirley Landis

570.372.9105

[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 internship provides practical experience performing diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance within a PennDOT garage. As an Automotive Mechanic Intern, you will perform the following duties:

• Diagnostic Support: Connect laptops to equipment to identify issues and assist in repair planning
• Repair Assistance: Work with diesel mechanics on engines, transmissions, brakes, steering, suspension, hydraulics, and electrical systems
• Safety Practices: Follow all PennDOT safety rules, attend daily shop safety talks, and maintain proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Communication Duties: Relay information to mechanics and supervisors and listen to operators explain equipment concerns
• Maintenance Tasks: Perform oil changes, replace filters, inspect belts and hoses, lubricate systems, and check cooling components
• Electrical Testing: Check electrical circuits, diagnose charging system problems, and inspect tire and wheel assemblies for air loss

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 would go 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 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.