PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Commonwealth-of-Pennsylvania; Emporium (Cameron County); On-site; USD 36,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s PennDOT is seeking a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee to join a hands-on pathway in highway and bridge maintenance. You will train on heavy equipment, learn safety procedures, and support daily tasks as you build toward licensing.

The six-month trainee program offers real-world field experience with experienced crews. The role runs full-time, with a 7:00 AM–3:00 PM schedule, no telework, and a starting annual salary of $42,347.00.

Qualifications

• Active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• Active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit on the first day of work.
• Active Medical Examiner’s Certificate per FMCSA Regulations on the first day of work.

Responsibilities

• Train to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other machinery with pre-operation checks.
• Use hand and power tools for maintenance tasks such as cutting, digging, patching, and trimming.
• Follow safety rules, observe and report hazards or injuries promptly.
• Maintain awareness of surroundings to help prevent risks for yourself and coworkers.
• Carry out environmental protection requirements during maintenance activities.

Job description

Join the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) as a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee and begin a hands-on path towards a rewarding career in transportation! This role gives you the chance to learn essential skills while working with experienced crews on road and bridge projects. Within this role, you will gain confidence as you train on heavy equipment and take part in safety-focused maintenance duties.

Check out this video for more information!

This is a six-month trainee position which supports highway and bridge maintenance operations by training on equipment, learning proper safety procedures, and assisting with daily work tasks. The role builds the skills needed for future licensing and certification while helping crews maintain safe travel conditions. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Train to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other machinery while completing pre-operation checks
• Tool Operation: Use hand and power tools for maintenance tasks such as cutting, digging, patching, and trimming
• Safety Practices: Follow safety rules, make observations, and report hazards or injuries promptly
• Worksite Awareness: Maintain awareness of surroundings to help prevent risks for yourself and your coworkers
• Environmental Compliance: Carry out 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 are subject to change based upon 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.

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:

• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.
• You must successfully pass a practical exam in the operation of equipment with a manual transmission.
• 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 and medical examination.

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.