PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

THE POSITION

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:

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

• 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.
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  Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
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  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

• 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.

• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

• 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.
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  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.

• 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.

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this short video!

See the total value of your benefits package by exploring our benefits calculator.

Health & Wellness

We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.*

Compensation & Financial Planning
We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options.

Work/Life Balance
We know there’s more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.*

Values and Culture
We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.

Employee Perks
Sometimes, it is the little “extras” that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships.

For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visit www.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box.

• Eligibility rules apply.