Automotive Mechanic Intern (High School)

Are you a high school student looking for a hands-on way to jumpstart your future in automotive repair while learning from experienced professionals? As an Automotive Mechanic Intern with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), you will gain valuable experience using tools, technology, and repair methods used in professional garages. This opportunity is ideal for students who enjoy teamwork and practical learning. Here, you will assist mechanics, operators, and garage staff while developing strong technical and communication skills. Apply today to learn how to help keep important fleet vehicles safe, dependable, and ready for use!

This internship provides practical experience performing diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance within a PennDOT garage. As an Automotive Mechanic Intern, you will perform the following duties:

• Diagnostic Support: Connect laptops to equipment to identify issues and assist in repair planning
• Repair Assistance: Work with diesel mechanics on engines, transmissions, brakes, steering, suspension, hydraulics, and electrical systems
• Safety Practices: Follow all PennDOT safety rules, attend daily shop safety talks, and maintain proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Communication Duties: Relay information to mechanics and supervisors and listen to operators explain equipment concerns
• Maintenance Tasks: Perform oil changes, replace filters, inspect belts and hoses, lubricate systems, and check cooling components
• Electrical Testing: Check electrical circuits, diagnose charging system problems, and inspect tire and wheel assemblies for air loss

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Work schedule will vary based on the agreement between high school and COPA location.
• Senior enrolled in High School 2026-2027 - The internship would be available through the 2026-2027 school year.
• Junior enrolled in High School 2026-2027 - The internship would go through the 2026-2027 school year, summer 2027, and 2027-2028 school year
• 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.
• During the 2026-27 school year, you must be a high school or vo-tech (career and technical center) junior or senior in an in an automotive or diesel program that has provided preparation and training for the duties of this internship.

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.
• 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.

Legal Requirements:

• A conditional offer of employment will require submission of criminal history reports. See hiring agency contact information.

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.