PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee

Commonwealth-of-Pennsylvania; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's PennDOT seeks an enthusiastic CDL Operator Trainee to learn highway and bridge maintenance skills. You will operate trucks and loaders, perform safety checks, and support traffic control during maintenance.

The role emphasizes hands-on training, adherence to CDL requirements, and a commitment to safe, quality public service for residents of Pennsylvania.

Qualifications

• Active Pennsylvania driver license required on day one.
• Must hold or obtain CDL learner's permit and medical certificate.
• Ability to operate heavy trucks and loaders safely.

Responsibilities

• Operate trucks, loaders and equipment for highway/bridge maintenance.
• Maintain CDL compliance with daily pre/post checks.
• Perform flagger duties to manage traffic flow when not operating.
• Carry out minor repairs, maintenance and cleaning of equipment.
• Follow safety procedures and report hazards promptly.

Skills

Equipment operation

CDL compliance

Traffic control

Manual labor

Safety procedures

Education

PA non-commercial Class C Driver's License

PA Commercial Driver Learner's Permit (Class A or B)

Medical Examiner’s Certificate (FMCSA)

Job description

NOTE: This posting will close on August 30, 2026 or after a total of 25 applications are received, whichever occurs first.

Begin a career that makes a difference for every driver on the road! As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Department of Transportation, you will learn valuable skills that support safe and reliable travel across the state. This role gives you real experience with highway equipment and daily maintenance tasks. You will work with a team committed to quality work and community service. Start your path toward a rewarding future in public service!

Check out this video for more information!

This role focuses on building the skills necessary for operating equipment and completing manual labor tasks that support safe highway and bridge maintenance. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Operation: Operate trucks, loaders, and other equipment as required for maintenance activities
• CDL Compliance: Maintain the required CDL and complete daily pre and post operation checks
• Traffic Control: Perform flagger duties to manage traffic flow when equipment is not being operated
• Manual Labor Tasks: Use motorized and non-motorized tools to complete tasks such as digging, cutting brush, and repairing barriers
• Equipment Care: Carry out minor repairs, preventative maintenance, and cleaning of assigned equipment
• Safety Practices: Follow safety procedures, report hazards, and help maintain a safe work environment

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Overtime, dual-shifts, and holiday shifts may be required during storm operations, emergencies, and specialized maintenance operations.
• Telework:You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary:In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

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 by the first day of work.

Additional Requirements:

• You must obtain an active certification issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in the operation of heavy trucks and loaders, and construction equipment, within the probationary period.
• Employees may be required to obtain and maintain CDL endorsements and certifications necessary to operate specific pieces of equipment.
• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Qualification (not required):

• Ability to demonstrate successful operation of equipment with a manual transmission.

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.