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Posted: January 27, 2026 (0 days ago)

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PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Department of Transportation

Fresh

Location

Pennsylvania, 17120

Salary

$41,526 - $46,924

per year

Closes

February 6, 2026

Job Description

Summary

This job is an entry-level trainee position with Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation, where you'll spend six months learning to operate heavy machinery and vehicles for highway and bridge maintenance, along with performing manual labor tasks.

You'll work closely with experienced team members to ensure road safety through hands-on training in equipment handling, safety practices, and basic inspections.

It's ideal for someone who enjoys outdoor work, is committed to safety, and wants to build a stable career in public infrastructure without needing prior heavy equipment experience.

Key Requirements

  • Valid Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver’s License or equivalent
  • Valid Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner’s Permit with Air Brake Restriction (L) removed on first day of work
  • Valid Medical Examiner's Certificate per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations on first day of work
  • Ability to operate vehicles or equipment with manual transmission (for certain positions)
  • Subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations
  • Ability to perform essential job functions, including manual labor and staying alert in hazardous environments
  • Commitment to following safety protocols and using protective gear during training

Full Job Description

Are you ready to embark on a rewarding career that makes a real difference? Join the McKean County Maintenance Organization, a vital part of the Department of Transportation, as a Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee. This role not only provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in operating essential equipment but also emphasizes the importance of safety protocols and effective logistics management. As you work under the guidance of experienced operators, you will develop the skills necessary to handle heavy machinery and vehicles, ensuring the safety of our roads for all travelers. A commitment to hard work and a strong focus on safety are crucial in this position. Do not miss your chance to take the first step toward a fulfilling career in transportation—apply today and become a key player in maintaining the safety of our highways!

Check out this
video for more information!

Requirements

As you participate in our six-month on-the-job training program, you will acquire essential skills to effectively contribute to the operation of highway construction and maintenance equipment, while also performing various manual labor tasks as a vital member of a highway or bridge maintenance team. This program emphasizes the importance of creating a safe work environment for yourself, your colleagues, and the public by following established safety protocols and using the appropriate protective gear. You will learn to conduct visual assessments, make manual adjustments, and communicate your observations clearly, both in writing and verbally. Staying alert in the work area is crucial for avoiding potential risks and hazards. Under the guidance of an instructor, you will also obtain the necessary licensing and certification to operate heavy construction machinery, including Heavy Truck/Tandem Axle (HT/TA) vehicles and loaders with a bucket capacity of 4.5 cubic yards or less.

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.
  • Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
  • Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $41,526.00 (before taxes).
  • You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Special Requirements:

  • This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C Driver’s License or equivalent.
  • This position requires possession of a valid Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner’s Permit with the Air Brake Restriction (L) removed on the first day of work.
  • This position requires possession of a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations on the first day of work.
  • Certain positions require operation of vehicles or equipment with a manual transmission.
  • 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.

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 medical examination and drug screening.


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.


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.

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Posted on NEOGOV: 1/27/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 1/27/2026

Source: NEOGOV | ID: neogov-pabureau-5211361