Tradesman Helper Intern (High School)

Attention high school students eager to gain practical experience in the Department of Transportation (DOT)! We invite you to explore an exciting opportunity to launch your career in automotive mechanics. As a Tradesman Helper Intern, you will work alongside skilled mechanics at the Centre County Maintenance Organization, providing valuable support and learning from industry professionals. This is a fantastic chance to immerse yourself in the field and develop essential skills for your future career.

In this position, you will assist mechanics to gain the necessary skills for safe and efficient work within an automotive garage. You will acquire the expertise required for general repairs and maintenance of cars and light trucks. Your responsibilities will include assisting with various repairs and maintenance tasks, utilizing power, hand, and air tools once you have demonstrated proficiency. Additionally, you will be expected to maintain cleanliness in the work area and ensure tools and equipment are properly serviced. It is important to ask questions whenever you have uncertainties or face new challenges, and to consistently practice and follow safety protocols.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Work schedule will vary based on agreement between high school and COPA location
• High School Internship for the 2025-2026 School Year – Beginning 09/02/25 – 06/30/26.
• 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 by the internship start date.
• You must be a junior or senior status for the upcoming 2025 – 2026 high school year.

Additional Requirements:

• 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.

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.