PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

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

Job summary

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in Mercer County is hiring a CDL Operator Trainee for a six-month program. You will train on heavy trucks and equipment, assist with daily maintenance tasks, and learn safety procedures to support highway and bridge operations.

This role prepares you for licensing and certification while contributing to safe travel conditions. Work hours are 7:00 AM–3:00 PM, Monday–Friday, with travel and overtime as required.

Qualifications

• Active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C driver's license.
• Active Pennsylvania Class A or B CDL Learner's Permit on day one of work.
• Active Medical Examiner’s Certificate per FMCSA regulations by day one.
• Drug and Alcohol testing is required.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.

Responsibilities

• Equipment Training: learn to operate heavy trucks and other construction equipment.
• Manual Labor: perform tasks with shovels, rakes, and patching tools.
• Safety Practices: follow procedures, report hazards, maintain safe environment.
• Field Awareness: stay alert to risks and assist with safe operations.
• Environmental Duties: follow environmental requirements during maintenance.

Skills

CDL Eligibility

Safety Awareness

Manual Transmission Operation

Job description

Join the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in Mercer County and learn skills that support safe and reliable travel. This role provides hands‑on training with important equipment used for roadway maintenance. Here, you will gain valuable experience that prepares you for future advancement while contributing to essential public services. Apply today to step into a position that helps build a strong foundation for your career!

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 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: Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other construction equipment while completing required checks and adjustments
• Manual Labor: Perform various tasks using tools such as shovels, rakes, chainsaws, mowers, and patching machines
• Safety Practices: Follow protective procedures, make observations, report hazards, and help maintain a safe work environment
• Field Awareness: Stay alert to work area risks, report injuries or equipment issues, and support safe operations for all workers
• Environmental Duties: Carry out environmental protection requirements and follow training related to 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.
• Travel, overtime, and shift work are required. 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: 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:

• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Qualifications (not required):

• Ability to demonstrate successful operation of 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.