The Department of Transportation is looking for a motivated PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee who enjoys learning through practical experience. In this role, you will develop the knowledge needed to operate essential construction and maintenance equipment. You will support roadway safety while gaining confidence in important job skills. Begin a training opportunity that prepares you for a strong future with the agency.
Check out this video for more information!
This position provides hands-on training in equipment operation and maintenance tasks that support safe highway and bridge work. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:
- Equipment Training: Learn to operate trucks, loaders, and other heavy equipment under supervision
- Certification Progress: Work toward required licenses and equipment certifications for the job site
- Tool Use: Use hand tools and motorized tools to complete tasks such as digging, cutting brush, and making repairs
- Safety Practices: Follow safety procedures, observe hazards, and report injuries or equipment issues immediately
- Worksite Awareness: Monitor the work area to help yourself and others avoid risks and maintain safe operations
- Environmental Compliance: Apply environmental protection practices 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.
- Dual shifts, overtime, and travel may be required. Work hours subject to seasonal change.
- 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.
- This position requires possession of an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit on the first day of work.
- This position requires possession of 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:
- 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:
- You must pass a background investigation.
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.

