PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Columbus Township (PA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is seeking a Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee to learn to operate trucks, loaders, and other machinery while performing maintenance tasks and safety training.

This full-time role includes environmental responsibilities, adherence to safety rules, required licenses for first-day work, and potential overtime or travel. Telework is not available, and work hours are daytime, Monday through Friday with seasonal adjustments.

Qualifications

• This position requires possession of an active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• An active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit on the first day of work.
• An active Medical Examiner’s Certificate as required by FMCSA Regulations by the first day of work.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.
• Preferred: experience operating equipment with a manual transmission.

Responsibilities

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate trucks, loaders, and other machinery with safety checks.
• Tool Skills: Use hand tools and motorized tools for maintenance tasks.
• Safety Practices: Follow safety rules, use PPE, report hazards.
• Worksite Awareness: Observe work areas, support coworkers, help prevent accidents.
• Environmental Tasks: Follow environmental protection requirements during maintenance.

Job description

Are you ready to enhance your technical skills while helping to keep Pennsylvania roads safe and well maintained? The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is searching for a motivated Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee who is eager to build important skills for a long-term career. This role teaches you how to operate key equipment and work safely with a maintenance crew. You will gain real-world experience with tools, safety practices, and road upkeep. Apply today to join a team where learning and teamwork lead to strong opportunities!

Check out this video for more information!

This position focuses on learning how to operate equipment and performing manual labor tasks that support roadway and bridge maintenance. It includes safety training, tool use, and hands‑on experience with PennDOT work procedures. As a Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate trucks, loaders, and other machinery and complete required safety checks
• Tool Skills: Use hand tools and motorized tools to complete maintenance and repair tasks
• Safety Practices: Follow safety rules, use protective equipment, and report injuries or hazards
• Worksite Awareness: Observe work areas, support coworkers, and help prevent accidents
• Environmental Tasks: Follow environmental protection requirements during maintenance activities

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
  • Work hours may vary due to seasonal requirements.
• This position may require dual shifts, overtime, and travel may be required.
• 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:

• This position requires 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 be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Qualifications (not required):

• Experience operating equipment with a manual transmission.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass a background investigation.

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.