PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee (Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee)

Posting number: N-2026-54022

Department: Department of Transportation

Division: TR Lancaster Co

Job classification: Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee

Posting type: NCS External

Categories: Trades, Transportation, Drivers

Summary

Start your journey in a role that encourages growth and supports your future! As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee with the Department of Transportation, you will begin a practical and rewarding career in highway maintenance. This position helps you gain confidence with equipment operation and roadwork tasks that keep travelers safe. You will be part of a crew that works together to maintain the quality of Pennsylvania roads. Apply today and grow your abilities while supporting safe and reliable roads for communities!

Check out this video for more information!

Examples of duties

This position focuses on learning to operate highway maintenance equipment and perform essential manual labor tasks that support safe road conditions. It helps ensure transportation routes remain usable and well maintained throughout the year. As a PennDOT CDL Operator Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Operation: Operate trucks, loaders, and other highway maintenance equipment safely and correctly
• Safety Awareness: Follow proper safety procedures and use protective equipment to maintain a safe work zone
• Manual Tasks: Complete physical labor such as cutting brush, cleaning culverts, digging ditches, and repairing barriers
• Tool Use: Select and use both motorized and non-motorized tools appropriately to complete assigned maintenance jobs
• Maintenance Duties: Perform minor repairs, servicing, and daily checks on assigned equipment
• Traffic Control: Perform flagging duties to help direct traffic during roadwork activities

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 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: 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:

• 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: 

• 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 falsif