Tradesman Helper Intern (High School)

Are you a high school student interested in learning hands-on skills in a professional automotive garage? Would you like to secure a paid internship that provides experience and a strong start to a career with the Commonwealth? This Tradesman Helper Internship opportunity with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) gives you the chance to work alongside experienced mechanics who will guide you through real repair tasks. You will build confidence by practicing safe and effective techniques in maintaining cars and light trucks. Apply today to join a team that supports your growth and helps you develop valuable technical abilities!

Through this internship opportunity, you will learn essential automotive maintenance skills which will allow you to properly assist mechanics, practice safe work habits, and learn various repair procedures. You will support daily garage operations while gaining experience with tools, diagnostics, and basic vehicle service tasks. As a Tradesman Helper Intern, you will perform the following duties:

• Vehicle Service: Assist with general repairs and maintenance on cars and light trucks
• Tool Usage: Learn proper handling, usage, and storage of power, hand, and air tools
• Safety Practices: Follow safety rules, ask questions, and learn procedures for hazardous materials
• Repair Tasks: Help with tire changes, brake work, exhaust inspections, and suspension repairs
• Work Documentation: Read work orders and document repairs accurately
• Diagnostics Training: Use computer diagnostic equipment to understand vehicle issues

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• High school internship for the 2026-2027 school year.
• Work schedule will vary based on the agreement between the high school and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (COPA) location.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Internship Requirements:

• You must be at least 16 years of age at time of hire.
• You must be a high school junior or senior during the 2026 - 2027 school year.

Additional Requirements:

• Letter of Recommendation: You must attach a Letter of Recommendation from your school's co-op coordinator, career or guidance counselor, or similar designated school professional indicating you meet your school's requirements and are being recommended for this opportunity. Letter of Recommendation must be on letterhead.
• By participating in this program, the student and school agree to use the Commonwealth's Training Plan, Statement of Responsibilities, and Student Performance Evaluation. Forms will be provided to the student upon acceptance of this position.
• Work Permit: Minors will be required to submit their Work Permit upon acceptance of this position.
• 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).
• 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.