PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Coal Township (PA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, through PennDOT, is seeking a CDL Operator Trainee in Northumberland County. This hands-on trainee position focuses on highway and bridge maintenance, with formal training to operate construction equipment safely and effectively.

You will perform equipment training, safety practices, and environmental compliance while supporting maintenance crews; dual shifts occur in winter, and full-time hours are 7:30 AM–3:30 PM, Monday to Friday.

Qualifications

• Valid Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver's License on first day of work.
• Active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit on first day of work.
• Active Medical Examiner’s Certificate per FMCSA regulations on first day of work.
• Ability to operate vehicles or equipment with manual transmission during probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders and other maintenance equipment while earning licenses and certifications.
• Perform and document pre-operation and post-operation inspections and adjust equipment as needed.
• Assist maintenance crews with roadway and bridge projects following standard procedures.
• Support safety policies, use protective equipment, identify hazards and report concerns.
• Apply environmental protection requirements and complete environmental management training.

Job description

Ready to learn new skills, work with heavy equipment, and build a career that keeps Pennsylvania moving? As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Department of Transportation, Northumberland County, you will receive hands‑on training while supporting important highway and bridge maintenance activities. Every day offers a chance to grow your knowledge, earn certifications, and gain valuable experience in the field. Start your journey in a role that combines learning, teamwork, and public service.

Check out this video for more information!

This trainee position provides practical experience in highway and bridge maintenance while preparing employees to operate construction and maintenance equipment safely and effectively. Responsibilities include equipment training, manual labor, safety awareness, and environmental stewardship. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other maintenance equipment while working toward required licenses and certifications
• Equipment Checks: Perform and document pre operation and post operation inspections and make field adjustments when necessary
• Tool Operations: Use hand tools and powered equipment to support maintenance and construction activities
• Maintenance Support: Assist maintenance crews with roadway and bridge projects while following established work procedures
• Safety Awareness: Follow safety policies, use protective equipment, identify hazards, and report incidents or concerns
• Environmental Compliance: Apply environmental protection requirements and complete environmental management training activities

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Overtime, travel, and shift work may be required. Dual shifts in effect November through March.
• 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 (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:

• You must be in possession of a valid 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.
• This position requires operation of vehicles or equipment with a manual transmission within the probationary period.

Additional Requirements:

• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.
• 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.
• A conditional offer of employment will require a drug screening.

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.