Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
FreshPosted Jan 20
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Posted: January 20, 2026 (0 days ago)
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Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Department of Transportation
Location
Pennsylvania, 17120
Salary
$47,844 - $60,714
per year
Type
Full Time
More Construction jobs →Closes
January 30, 2026
Job Description
Summary
This job is an entry-level trainee position where you'll learn to repair and maintain diesel-powered trucks, construction equipment, and vehicles under the guidance of experienced mechanics in Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation.
You'll get hands-on training in tasks like diagnosing problems, performing preventative maintenance, and fixing parts such as brakes and transmissions.
It's ideal for someone eager to start a career in heavy equipment repair, with a passion for mechanical work and willingness to learn on the job.
Key Requirements
- Two years of experience as a Tradesman Helper or equivalent in a related field
- Ability to engage in hands-on training for repairing vehicles, trucks, and heavy machinery
- Skills in diagnosing repair needs and assisting with component replacements like transmissions and brakes
- Knowledge of preventative maintenance, automotive diagnostics, tune-ups, and tire changes
- Capability to perform state safety and emissions inspections, including road tests and record-keeping
- Familiarity with using diagnostic tools to identify issues and recommend repairs
- Availability for full-time schedule (7 AM - 3 PM, Monday-Friday) with potential overtime, shift work, and no telework
Full Job Description
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is on the lookout for a Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee to become part of the Lebanon County Maintenance Organization. This role offers a fantastic opportunity for those looking to start a career in equipment maintenance, featuring an extensive hands-on training program led by experienced supervisors and skilled professionals. As a trainee, you will acquire essential skills in performing analytical tasks, conducting preventative maintenance, and repairing a variety of construction equipment, trucks, and vehicles powered by gasoline or diesel engines. If you have a true enthusiasm for maintaining and repairing diesel and construction machinery, seize this opportunity to develop your skills and propel your career forward—apply today!
Requirements
This role offers an opportunity to engage in a comprehensive, hands-on training program under the mentorship of supervisors, managers, and experienced staff members.
You will engage in the repair and maintenance of various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and heavy machinery, while gaining hands-on experience with equipment such as sweepers, mixers, and front-end loaders.
Your responsibilities will include diagnosing repair needs and assisting in the replacement of key components like shock absorbers, transmissions, and brakes.
You will also support tasks such as wheel balancing, alignment checks, minor body repairs, and the testing or replacement of electrical components, including alternators.
Additionally, you will perform preventative maintenance on vehicles and equipment, contributing to automotive diagnostics, tune-ups, and tire changes.
Your duties will extend to repairing and replacing engine subassemblies, adjusting cooling, suspension, and air conditioning systems, and maintaining fuel injection and transmission systems.
You will assist in conducting state inspections for safety and emissions on assigned vehicles, ensuring compliance with regulations through necessary repairs, which includes performing road tests, issuing inspection stickers, and keeping accurate inspection records.
Utilizing diagnostic tools, you will identify equipment issues and help determine appropriate repair methods and parts needed.
Furthermore, you will learn to maintain motorized hand tools like chain saws and compressors, while also reporting any missing parts or broken equipment and recommending replacements as necessary.
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.
- Work hours subject to change based on seasonal requirements and operational needs.
- Travel, overtime and shift work required.
- 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
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:
- Two years as a Tradesman Helper (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration) working in the automotive field; or
- Graduation from a post-high school diesel technology curriculum of an accredited trade or technical school; or
- An equivalent combination of experience and training.
Special Requirements:
- This position requires employees to possess an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit or License with the Air Brake Restriction (L) and Manual Transmission Restriction (E) removed on the first day of employment.
- This position requires employees to possess an active Medical Examiner’s Certificate in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations on the first day of employment.
- This position requires employees to obtain a valid Pennsylvania Class 4 or 7 Inspection Mechanic Certification during the probationary period.
- Employees may be required to obtain and maintain CDL endorsements and certifications necessary to operate specific pieces of equipment.
- This position requires operation of vehicles or equipment with a manual transmission within the six-month probationary period.
- This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.
Additional Requirement:
- 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).
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.
Check your resume before applying to catch common mistakes