PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Commonwealth-of-Pennsylvania; Tunkhannock (Wyoming County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, through PennDOT, seeks a CDL Operator Trainee to gain hands-on experience operating construction equipment and performing maintenance tasks. You will work with experienced staff and follow safety practices to prepare for advancement.

The role includes learning to operate heavy trucks, using tools for roadway tasks, and supporting work crews with daily maintenance. Telework is not available, and starting salary is non-negotiable in some cases.

Qualifications

• Understand how to operate construction equipment safely on maintenance crews.
• Follow safety procedures and report hazards or incidents.
• Perform inspections and adjustments to support proper machine function.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate heavy trucks and loaders on maintenance crews.
• Use hand and motorized tools for roadway and bridge tasks.
• Adhere to safety procedures and report hazards.
• Perform equipment inspections and adjustments.
• Assist crews with manual labor and upkeep of work areas.

Skills

Equipment operation

Safety awareness

Tool usage

Maintenance inspections

Worksite support

Tools

Heavy equipment

Job description

As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Department of Transportation, you will gain hands‑on experience that prepares you for advancement. This trainee program teaches you how to use important equipment and follow the safety practices needed on road crews. You will learn from experienced staff who support your growth each day. This position is a great way to build skills that lead to future opportunities.

Check out this video for more information!

This trainee role teaches you how to operate construction equipment and complete maintenance tasks that support safe roadway conditions. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Training: Learn to operate heavy trucks and loaders safely on maintenance crews
• Tool Usage: Use hand and motorized tools to complete roadway and bridge tasks
• Safety Awareness: Follow safety procedures and report hazards or incidents
• Equipment Checks: Perform inspections and adjustments to support proper machine function
• Worksite Support: Assist crews with manual labor and upkeep of work areas

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 schedule subject to change due to weather/season;
  • Winter shifts
    • 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    • 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• 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.
• This position requires employees to demonstrate successful operation of equipment with a manual transmission.

Additional Requirements:

• 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.