PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, through PennDOT, is seeking a CDL Operator Trainee in Indiana County to learn how to operate heavy equipment and support highway and bridge maintenance. The role focuses on equipment training, safety checks, and manual labor using hand and power tools.

Typical hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with travel and occasional overtime. Starting salary for new Commonwealth employees is $42,347 per year, with opportunity for future advancement.

Qualifications

• Must possess an active PA non-commercial Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• Must possess an active PA Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit on day one.
• Must possess an active Medical Examiner’s Certificate per FMCSA regulations on day one.
• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate trucks and loaders and complete required safety checks.
• Use hand and power tools to support maintenance tasks.
• Follow safety procedures and report injuries or incidents.
• Observe worksites and communicate findings to crew leaders.
• Follow environmental protection rules during maintenance activities.
• Install tire chains and prepare machinery for safe operation.

Education

Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver's License

Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit

Medical Examiner’s Certificate (FMCSA)

Job description

Join the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in Indiana County and learn the skills that support safe and reliable travel. This role provides hands-on training with important equipment used for roadway maintenance. You will gain experience that prepares you for future advancement while contributing to essential public services.

Check out this video for more information!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This trainee role helps you learn how to operate heavy equipment and perform manual laboring tasks used in highway and bridge maintenance. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate trucks and loaders and complete required safety checks
• Manual Labor: Use hand and power tools to support maintenance tasks such as cutting, patching, and clearing areas
• Safety Practices: Follow safety procedures, use protective gear, and report injuries or incidents promptly
• Worksite Awareness: Watch for hazards, make observations, and communicate findings to crew leaders
• Environmental Compliance: Follow environmental protection rules and requirements during maintenance activities
• Field Adjustments: Install tire chains, make minor equipment adjustments, and prepare machinery for safe operation

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• 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 $42,347.00 (before taxes).
• 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

Special Requirements:

• You must be in 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 on the first day of work.

Additional Requirements:

• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.