PennDOT CDL Operator (Transportation Equipment Operator A)
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Posted: March 19, 2026 (0 days ago)
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Department of Transportation
Location
Pennsylvania, 17120
Salary
$41,526 - $46,924
per year
Type
Closes
Base salary range: $147,649 - $221,900
Typical requirements: Executive-level leadership experience. Senior executive qualifications required.
Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).
This job is a trainee position with Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation where you'll learn to operate heavy machinery and perform hands-on maintenance to keep roads and bridges safe.
Over six months, you'll gain skills in equipment handling, safety checks, and manual labor under experienced guidance.
It's ideal for someone who enjoys physical work, values safety, and wants to build a stable career in public service without prior heavy equipment experience.

As you engage in our six-month on-the-job training program, you will develop crucial skills to support the operation of highway construction and maintenance equipment while performing essential manual labor as a key member of a highway and bridge maintenance team.
Your training will include obtaining the necessary licenses and certifications to operate heavy machinery, such as Heavy Truck/Tandem Axle (HT/TA) vehicles and loaders with a bucket capacity of 4.5 cubic yards or less.
You will learn to conduct and document important pre- and post-operation checks, make adjustments for safe operation, and minimize equipment wear.
Additionally, you will gain proficiency in using hand and foot controls, wearing seat belts, and managing tire chains on dual wheels.
In this position, you will also be trained to perform various manual labor tasks with both powered and non-powered hand tools, including shovels, rakes, and hammers.
You will learn to choose the right tools to reduce wear and prevent damage, as well as report any missing or broken equipment.
Safety is paramount, so you will ensure a safe work environment for yourself, your coworkers, and the public by following safety protocols and using protective gear.
You will be responsible for making visual observations, adjusting equipment as necessary, and reporting your findings both verbally and in writing.
Staying aware of your surroundings is essential to avoid risks and hazards, and you must report any personal injuries or equipment accidents, including near-misses, immediately to ensure proper treatment and prevent further injury.
Work Schedule and Additional Information:
QUALIFICATIONS
Special Requirements:
Additional Requirements:
Legal Requirements:
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).
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:
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):
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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