PennDOT Winter Mechanics (Diesel & Automotive Mechanics), 2026-2027

About the role

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is searching for Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanics and Automotive Mechanics to support winter operations across the state. This position offers the chance to work with a wide range of heavy equipment that keeps roadways safe during the toughest months. Your mechanical expertise will help ensure that essential vehicles stay in top condition. Join a team that values hands-on talent and provides meaningful service to Pennsylvania communities.

Check out this video for more information!

These positions support winter maintenance operations by ensuring that PennDOT vehicles and equipment remain safe, reliable, and ready for use.

As a Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic, you will perform the following duties:

• Equipment Repair: Perform maintenance and repairs on diesel-powered vehicles and heavy machinery
• Component Inspection: Check parts, systems, and equipment for wear or damage
• Preventive Service: Complete routine service tasks that reduce mechanical issues
• Fleet Support: Prepare vehicles and equipment for winter operations
• Shop Safety: Follow safety standards that support a clean and organized work area

As an Automotive Mechanic, you will perform the following duties

• Vehicle Repair: Conduct skilled maintenance and repair on fleet vehicles and equipment
• Equipment Service: Perform routine service tasks that support safe and reliable operation
• System Inspection: Evaluate parts, components, and systems for wear or malfunction
• Winter Preparation: Ready vehicles and equipment for seasonal conditions and demands
• Shop Safety: Maintain safe practices and support an organized work environment

Opportunities are based on operational needs, so there may not be open positions for each job title in every county. To see counties where you might be interested in working, view PennDOT's District map.

Work Hours and Additional Information

• Salary: Hourly rate of pay is based on title:
• Winter Diesel & Construction Equipment Mechanic earn $28.94
• Winter Automotive Mechanics earn $25.47
• These are seasonal positions lasting from September through April, but there are frequent opportunities to obtain a permanent full-time position.

Qualifications

Winter Diesel & Construction Equipment Mechanic

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements

• Successful completion of the Commonwealth's Diesel and Construction Equipment Mechanic Trainee Program (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• Two years of journey level mechanical experience in the diagnosis and repair of automobiles, heavy trucks, or construction equipment, which includes one year of experience in the diagnosis and repair of diesel vehicles or equipment; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Conditions of Employment

• All positions require possession of an active Pennsylvania Class 1, Class 4, or Class 7 Inspection Mechanic Certification during the probationary period.
• All positions require possession of an active Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License and any endorsements necessary to operate specific vehicles or equipment.
• Certain positions require 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.
• Certain positions require an active Pennsylvania Class 1, Class 4, or Class 7 Inspection Mechanic Certification on the first day of employment.
• Certain positions require possession of an active Medical Examiner’s Certificate in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations on the first day of employment.
• Certain positions require employees to pass the Department of Transportation’s New Mechanic Training course during the probationary period.
• Certain positions require possession of an active Hazardous Materials Endorsement (H).
• Certain positions require possession of an active Tank Vehicle Endorsement (N).
• Employees may be required to obtain and maintain CDL endorsements.
• This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations.

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements

• Four years of experience in the automotive mechanic trade; or
• Completion of an approved apprenticeship; or
• Possess any combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Necessary Special Requirements

• Certain positions may require employee to hold a current and valid Pennsylvania driver's license of the class appropriate to the vehicle operated and supplemented by the endorsements required by law for operation of specific equipment, in order to meet operational needs.
• Certain positions may require employee to be a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Certified Inspection Mechanic for the class of vehicle used in the agency.
• Certain positions may require employee to obtain a CFC-12 Refrigerant Recycling Certificate, a 134A Refrigerant Recycling Certificate, or a Compressed Natural Gas Certificate.

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).
• 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.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

Additional information

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.