Jobs and Careers

PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Cumberland County, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 27 Jul 2026

💰 $47,863/yr($42,347/yr – $47,863/yr)

About the role

Posting number: N-2026-55198

Department: Department of Transportation

Division: TR Cumberland Co

Job classification: Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee

Posting type: NCS External

Categories: Trades, Transportation, Drivers

Summary

Be part of a team that makes a real difference every day! As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Department of Transportation, you will step into a role that helps keep our roads safe and well maintained. This trainee program provides hands on learning with equipment and safety practices that prepare you for long term success. You will gain valuable experience while working outdoors and supporting statewide transportation efforts. Choose a career path with PennDOT and help shape the roads that connect us all!

Check out this video for more information!

Examples of duties

Within this role, you will participate in a six-month trainee program focused on learning equipment operation, safety practices, and the manual labor skills needed to support highway and bridge maintenance. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

Equipment Training: Learn to operate heavy trucks, loaders, and other roadway maintenance equipment accurately and safely
Tool Operation: Use motorized and non-motorized tools such as shovels, rakes, saws, and tampers for maintenance tasks
Safety Practices: Follow all safety rules, use required protective gear, and report hazards or incidents promptly
Area Awareness: Stay alert to risks in the work zone and help protect yourself, coworkers, and motorists
Environmental Care: Apply environmental protection practices required for maintenance activities

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 required. 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: 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

Special Requirements:

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.

Additional Requirements:

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 Gene