PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

  • State of Pennsylvania
  • Kittanning, Pennsylvania
  • Full Time

THE POSITION

The Department of Transportation has an opportunity for you as a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee. This position will offer you a chance to build a strong future in highway maintenance and equipment operation. You will gain valuable skills while working outdoors and learning from experienced crews. You will also be able to grow your confidence as you master new equipment and safety practices. This role is a great start for anyone ready to make a difference in their community.

Check out this video for more information!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

In this position, you will focus on learning to operate highway maintenance equipment and performing essential labor tasks that support road and bridge upkeep. As a CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

  • Equipment Training: Learn to handle heavy trucks, loaders, and other construction equipment safely and correctly
  • Safety Practices: Follow required safety rules, observe hazards, and report incidents to protect yourself and others
  • Tool Operation: Use a variety of hand tools and motorized equipment to complete maintenance tasks
  • Environmental Compliance: Apply environmental protection guidelines during maintenance activities
  • Worksite Awareness: Stay alert to changing work conditions and help maintain a safe work area

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

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 may be required. Work hours are subject to change based on seasonal requirements and operational needs.
  • 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 $41,526 (before taxes).
  • You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Special Requirements:

  • 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 Requirement:

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

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.

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.

01

Special Requirement - Do you possess a valid driver's license which is not under suspension?

  • Yes
  • No

02

If you answered yes to the above question, please provide your driver's license number and expiration date. If no, please type N/A in the text box below.

Required Question

Employer Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Address 613 North Street

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 17120

Website

Job ID: 523438054
Originally Posted on: 6/3/2026

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