J1 Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $47,844.00 - $60,714.00 Annually
Location : Butler County, PA
Job Type: Non-Civil Service Permanent Full-time
Job Number: N-2026-47939
Department: Department of Transportation
Division: TR Butler Co
Opening Date: 06/05/2026
Closing Date: 6/14/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Job Code: 93129
Position Number: 00011899
Union: AFSCME
Bargaining Unit: J1
Pay Group: ST04
Bureau / Division Code: 00081020
Bureau / Division: TR Butler County
Worksite Address: 351 New Castle Rd
City: Butler, Pennsylvania
Zip Code: 16001
Contact Name: Tricia McElhaney
Contact Phone: 724.431.6826
Contact Email: trmcelhane@pa.gov
THE POSITION
NOTE: THIS IS A REPOSTING OF N-2026-47939 WHICH WAS PREVIOUSLY OPEN FROM APRIL 22, 2026 TO MAY 1, 2026. PREVIOUS APPLICANTS DO NOT NEED TO REAPPLY.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is seeking motivated individuals to join the Butler County Maintenance Organization as Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainees. This opportunity is ideal for those who are eager to learn the repair and maintenance of diesel engines and construction machinery. As a trainee, you will receive hands-on instruction, develop essential technical skills, and contribute directly to the maintenance of critical transportation infrastructure. If you are ready to begin a rewarding career and make a meaningful impact in your community, we encourage you to apply today.
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
This role provides hands-on experience through a structured on-the-job training program led by supervisors, managers, and skilled technicians. The trainee will develop the knowledge and abilities needed to perform analytical tasks, preventative maintenance, and repair work on construction equipment, trucks, and automobiles powered by gasoline or diesel engines. Through guided practice and mentorship, the trainee will gain a strong understanding of mechanical systems and the operational procedures required to maintain and repair a wide range of vehicles and machinery.
Key Training Components

• Participate in a comprehensive on-the-job training program under the guidance of experienced staff.
• Learn to perform analytical tasks related to diagnosing mechanical issues.
• Assist with preventative maintenance and repair work on construction equipment, trucks, and automobiles.
• Gain exposure to mechanical systems for gasoline and diesel engines.
• Develop familiarity with operational protocols for maintaining and repairing fleet vehicles and machinery.
• Build confidence through hands-on practice and direct mentorship.

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 subject to change based on seasonal requirements and operational needs.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $47,844.00 (before taxes).
• 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 on the first day of employment.
• This position requires possession of an active Pennsylvania Class B Commercial Driver's License with the Air Brake Restriction (L) and Manual Transmission Restriction (E) removed, or equivalent.
• This position requires employees to possess an active Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations on the first day of employment.
• All positions will require employees to obtain a valid Pennsylvania Class 1, 4, or 7 Inspection Mechanic Certification during the probationary period.
• This position will require employees to pass the Department of Transportation's New Mechanic Training course during the probationary period.
• This position requires possession of an active Tank Vehicle Endorsement (N).

Additional Requirement:

• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.
• 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).
• 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.
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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 and click on the benefits box.
*Eligibility rules apply.
01
Special Requirement - Do you possess an active Pennsylvania Class B Commercial Driver's License with the Air Brake Restriction (L) and Manual Transmission Restriction (E) removed, or equivalent?

• Yes
• No

02
If you answered "Yes" to the above question, please provide your driver's license number and expiration date. If "No", type N/A in the text box below.
03
Special Requirement - Do you possess an active Tank Vehicle Endorsement (N)?

• Yes
• No

04
Have you been employed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a Tradesman Helper in the automotive field for two or more years full time?

• Yes
• No

05
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experience must also be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, type N/A in the text box below.
06
Have you completed post-high school training in a diesel technology curriculum?
If you are claiming credits/training, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.
If you answer "Yes" to this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visiting and clicking the Evaluation Services link.

• Yes
• No

07
How many years of full-time experience in the automotive field do you possess?

• 2 yrs or more
• 1 but less than 2 yrs
• Less than 1 yr
• None

08
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experience must also be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, type N/A in the text box below.
09
How much college coursework have you completed in the automotive field?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.
If you answer this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visiting and clicking the Evaluation Services link.

• 60 credits or more
• 30 but less than 60 credits
• Less than 30 credits
• None

Required Question