PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Montoursville (Lycoming County); On-site; USD 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Transportation (PennDOT), seeks a CDL Operator Trainee in Lycoming County to learn heavy equipment operation, basic highway maintenance, and safety protocols. This paid, full-time role offers structured training, hands-on practice, and opportunities for advancement within public service.

Overtime and shifts may apply; telework is not offered. Starting salary is $42,347 per year, with a clear path to grow as you gain skills and certifications,

Qualifications

• Must possess active PA non-commercial Class C Driver's License or equivalent.
• Must obtain/maintain active Medical Examiner's Certificate per FMCSA.
• Ability to operate equipment with manual transmission during probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and related equipment safely and effectively.
• Use hand tools to complete maintenance tasks and report damaged equipment.
• Follow safety procedures and wear protective gear; report hazards or injuries immediately.
• Carry out manual labor such as clearing brush, repairing surfaces, and maintaining roadside areas.
• Perform pre- and post-operation inspections and basic field adjustments.
• Support environmental protection requirements during maintenance activities.

Job description

Start a meaningful path in highway maintenance with a role designed to help you learn and succeed. The Department of Transportation is seeking a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee in Lycoming County who is ready to develop new skills and support vital transportation services. This position provides hands-on training, teamwork, and opportunities to grow. Build a strong foundation for a future in public service. Check out this video for more information!

This trainee position provides structured learning and hands-on practice to teach safe equipment operation and basic highway maintenance tasks. The work supports road safety and prepares you for advancement within the department. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and related equipment safely and effectively
• Tool Use: Use motorized and non-motorized hand tools to complete maintenance tasks and report damaged equipment
• Safety Awareness: Follow safety procedures, use protective gear, and report hazards or injuries immediately
• Field Tasks: Carry out manual labor such as clearing brush, repairing surfaces, and maintaining roadside areas
• Operation Checks: Perform pre- and post-operation inspections and make basic field adjustments
• Environmental Duties: Support 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.
• 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:

• 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.
• This position requires employees to demonstrate successful operation of 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.