PennDOT Winter Trades (Tradesman Helper/Semi-Skilled Laborer), 2026-2027

About the role

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is seeking Winter Tradesman Helpers and Winter Semi-Skilled Laborers to support essential winter operations. These positions offer hands-on work that helps keep roadways clear, equipment functioning, and facilities maintained during the winter season. Your efforts will directly support public safety and reliable winter travel across the state. Join a dependable team that takes pride in serving communities during challenging weather.

Check out this video for more information!

These positions support winter operations by assisting with mechanical tasks, supply handling, and building maintenance across the facility.

As a Winter Tradesman Helper, you will perform the following duties

• Mechanical Assistance: Support light mechanical repairs such as oil changes, tire work, and basic service tasks
• Supply Handling: Pick up and transport parts, tools, equipment, and materials needed for operations
• Loading Support: Assist with loading and unloading vendor supplies and field materials
• Tool Care: Clean, maintain, and store tools and equipment properly
• Facility Maintenance: Perform simple building tasks such as replacing light bulbs and general upkeep
• Equipment Washing: Wash vehicles and maintain the wash bay area in clean condition

As a Semi Skilled Laborer, you will perform the following duties

• Custodial Work: Clean buildings, restrooms, breakrooms, offices, and multi-level areas using proper methods and materials
• Groundskeeping Tasks: Perform outdoor maintenance such as mowing, seeding, trimming shrubs, and clearing snow from walkways and parking areas
• Building Upkeep: Complete simple maintenance tasks such as painting, staining, and replacing light bulbs
• Stockroom Support: Assist with receiving, storing, and issuing parts and supplies as needed
• Tool Handling: Carry tools, cleaning materials, and equipment while maintaining proper storage and care
• Environmental Compliance: Follow procedures and attend training related to the Strategic Environmental Management Program

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:
• Winter Tradesman Helpers earn $18.83, hourly.
• Winter Semi-Skilled Laborers earn $18.83, hourly.
• These are seasonal positions lasting from September through April, but there are frequent opportunities to obtain a permanent full-time position.

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements

• Previous experience working with mechanics is preferred but not required.

Necessary Special Requirements

• Certain positions may require possession of a valid PA non-commercial Class C driver’s license.

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements

• One year of experience in laboring work including the use of tools and equipment used in maintenance or construction; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

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.