PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania; Harrisburg (Dauphin County); On-site; USD 42,347 - 47,863; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg is seeking a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee to begin a structured training program toward the Transportation Equipment Operator A classification. You will learn to operate heavy equipment, assist with road maintenance, and help uphold public safety.

The role offers full-time employment with a fixed schedule, travel requirements, and no telework. The program opens pathways to long-term growth within PennDOT and a stable civil service career.

Qualifications

• Active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C driver's license on first day.
• Active Pennsylvania Class A or B CDL Learner's Permit on first day.
• Active Medical Examiner's Certificate per FMCSA regulations on first day.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment as part of training toward Transportation Equipment Operator A.
• Assist road maintenance crews and support safety practices on-site.
• Perform basic inspections and engage in manual tasks under supervision.
• Learn equipment checks and environmental compliance during daily duties.
• Complete duties with documentation of incidents and hazards as required.

Skills

PA CDL Class C license

PA CDL A/B permit

Medical Examiner's Certificate

Job description

Salary

$42,347.00 - $47,863.00 Annually

Location

Dauphin County, PA

Job Type

Non-Civil Service Permanent Full-time

Job Number

N-2026-53493

Department

Department of Transportation

Division

TR Dauphin Co

Opening Date

07/08/2026

Closing Date

7/21/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Job Code

91360

Position Number

Multiple positions may be filled from this posting

Union

AFSCME

Bargaining Unit

J1

Pay Group

ST02

Bureau / Division Code

00080850

Bureau / Division

Transportation Dauphin County, 8-5

Worksite Address

2140 Herr Street

City

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Zip Code

17103

Contact Name

Marissa Brandon

Contact Email

[e-mail]

Job Overview

Take the first step toward a rewarding future as a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Department of Transportation. This role offers real training, real tools, and real responsibility as you prepare for the Transportation Equipment Operator A classification. You will learn to operate heavy equipment, support road maintenance, and help protect the safety of the public. This training program opens the door to long-term growth and a strong career path.

Check out this video for more information!

Description of Work

This position provides hands‑on training that prepares you to operate heavy equipment and perform road maintenance work safely and effectively. The role supports transportation crews in keeping highways and bridges in good condition throughout the county. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other equipment used in highway and bridge maintenance
• Safety Practices: Follow all safety procedures and use protective equipment to maintain a safe work environment
• Manual Labor Tasks: Perform physical tasks using hand and power tools to support maintenance operations
• Equipment Checks: Conduct basic inspections and make simple adjustments to ensure safe and reliable equipment performance
• Environmental Compliance: Carry out environmental protection steps required for maintenance activities
• Incident Reporting: Report hazards, near‑misses, and injuries promptly to help maintain a safe job site

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.
• 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: 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.

Required Experience, Training & Eligibility

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.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

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.