Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee

THE POSITION Are you ready to build hands-on mechanical skills while helping to keep essential transportation equipment running safely and efficiently? Become a Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and gain practical experience in a fast-paced maintenance environment. This position offers structured training that helps build knowledge of engines, equipment systems, and repair techniques. Every day provides new opportunities to learn and grow your mechanical abilities. Apply today to join a team dedicated to safety, reliability, and professional development! DESCRIPTION OF WORK This trainee position provides on the job instruction in the maintenance, inspection, diagnosis, and repair of vehicles and construction equipment. The role focuses on developing technical skills while supporting maintenance operations and learning safe work practices. As a Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee, you will perform the following duties: Repair Training: Assist with repairs and overhauls of vehicles, construction equipment, and mechanical systems Maintenance Support: Participate in inspections, tune ups, servicing, and preventative maintenance activities Diagnostic Work: Identify equipment issues using testing equipment, procedures, and technical guidance Inspection Activities: Assist with safety and emissions inspections and related documentation Equipment Care: Maintain tools, equipment, records, and organized work areas Safety Practices: Follow protective measures, identify hazards, and support environmental requirements 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. Dual shifts, overtime, and travel may be required. Work hours are subject to seasonal change. Dual shifts are from 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM or 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. 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. REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY 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 possession of an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver Learner's Permit or License OR possession of an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver’s License with the Air Brake Restriction (L) and Manual Transmission Restriction (E) removed on the first day of employment. This position requires possession of an active Medical Examiner’s Certificate in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations on the first day of employment. All positions require possession of an active Pennsylvania Class 1, Class 4, or Class 7 Inspection Mechanic Certification during the probationary period. This position requires possession of an active Tank Vehicle Endorsement (N) during the probationary period. Additional Requirements: This position requires operation of vehicles or equipment with a manual transmission within the six-month probationary period. This position requires you to possess a basic set of tools. Employees may be required to obtain and maintain CDL endorsements and certifications necessary to operate specific pieces of equipment. This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations. You must be able to perform essential job functions. Legal Requirements: You must pass a background investigation. 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). If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. 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 Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information. 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. Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this short video! See the total value of your benefits package by exploring our benefits calculator. Health & Wellness We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.* Compensation & Financial Planning We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options. Work/Life Balance We know there’s more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.* Values and Culture We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving. Employee Perks Sometimes, it is the little “extras” that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships. For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visit www.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box. *Eligibility rules apply.