-PennDOT Winter Maintenance Program

About the role

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is offering seasonal positions in the Winter Maintenance Program for the 2026–2027 season (September–April). These roles help keep communities moving during severe weather.

Responsibilities

• Winter CDL Equipment Operator: Performs a wide range of winter roadway tasks, including clearing snow, directing traffic, supporting equipment maintenance, assisting with guide rail upkeep, and unloading materials.
• Winter Dispatcher: Dispatches equipment operators during winter events, handles clerical duties, and ensures smooth communication and workflow.
• Diesel & Automotive Mechanics: Performs maintenance and repair on PennDOT equipment and vehicles, completes routine inspections, services components, and repairs parts.
• Tradesman Helper & Semi-Skilled Laborer: Performs routine maintenance and repair on vehicles, equipment, and related parts, ensuring efficient winter operations.

Requirements

• Winter CDL Equipment Operator: Successful completion of the Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee Program or graduation from a Commercial Driver's License Training School; or equivalent experience.
• Diesel & Automotive Mechanics: Successful completion of the commonwealth’s Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee program or two years of journey-level mechanic experience in the diagnosis and repair of automobiles, heavy trucks, or construction equipment.
• Tradesman Helper & Semi-Skilled Laborer: One year of experience in laboring work or equivalent combination of experience and training.

Qualifications

• Winter CDL Equipment Operator: Active PA Class A or B CDL with Air Brake (L) Restriction removed; valid Medical Examiner's Certificate; active certification in heavy truck and loader operation; certain positions may require additional certifications.
• Diesel & Automotive Mechanics: Valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License; valid Medical Examiner's Certificate; active certification in heavy truck and loader operation; certain positions may require additional certifications.
• Tradesman Helper & Semi-Skilled Laborer: Active non-commercial PA Class C driver's license or equivalent; certain positions may require additional certifications.

Skills

• Effective communication skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Benefits

Opportunities are based on operational needs and may vary by county. The position offers a chance to gain valuable experience and support safety, teamwork, and dependable winter operations.

Pay

• Winter CDL Equipment Operator: $23.46 per hour
• Winter Dispatcher: $17.73 per hour
• Diesel & Automotive Mechanics: $25.47 - $28.94 per hour based on title
• Tradesman Helper & Semi-Skilled Laborer: $18.83 per hour

Schedule

Positions are typically full-time, with hours varying based on operational needs. Some positions may require weekend or evening work.

Contact Information

To see counties where you might be interested in working, view PennDOT's District map. For more information, check out this video. To apply, click on the hyperlink below for the specific title you are interested in.