Tradesman Helper Intern (High School)

THE POSITION

The Tradesman Helper Intern position with the Department of Transportation is a great way to begin building real mechanical skills while earning valuable work experience. This internship gives you a chance to learn in an active garage where experienced mechanics guide you through hands-on tasks. You will develop confidence as you work with tools, equipment and vehicles. It is an excellent opportunity to start shaping your future in automotive maintenance.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This internship teaches you the basics of automotive repair and service in a working garage environment. It focuses on safety, learning new skills, and supporting mechanics with daily tasks. As a Tradesman Helper Intern, you will perform the following duties:

• Assist Mechanics: Help with general repairs and maintenance on cars and light trucks
• Use Shop Tools: Operate hand, power, and air tools once proper training is demonstrated
• Support Work Area: Clean and organize tools, equipment, and garage spaces as needed
• Follow Safety Rules: Practice safe procedures and report any concerns to supervisors
• Ask Questions: Seek guidance whenever uncertainties or unfamiliar situations arise
• Learn New Skills: Build mechanical knowledge through hands-on experience and instruction

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.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS
Internship Requirements:

• You must be at least 16 years of age.
• You must be a junior or senior enrolled in high school 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. 
• Work Permit: Minors will be required to submit their Work Permit upon acceptance of this position.
• 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.
• 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.htmland 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.   

Benefits

Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this short video!

See the total value of your benefits package by exploring our benefits calculator.

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 www.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box.

*Eligibility rules apply.

Supplemental Questions

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Agency Information

EmployerCommonwealth of PennsylvaniaAddress 613 North Street

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 17120 Website http://www.employment.pa.gov