Welder Intern (High School)

Are you a high school student eager to dive into the world of welding? If you are seeking a paid internship that offers hands-on experience and paves the way for a successful career with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, this opportunity is just for you! By joining our team, you will enhance your welding skills while working on real projects, gaining valuable industry insights, and learning from seasoned professionals. This paid internship is tailored to provide you with the practical knowledge and expertise necessary to thrive in the welding field, making it a fantastic launchpad for your future. Do not let this chance to boost your skills and jumpstart your career pass you by!

In this position, you will collaborate closely with the Mechanic Supervisor to develop essential skills for working safely and effectively in an automotive garage. You will acquire knowledge in general welding, as well as performing repairs and maintenance on cars and light trucks. Your responsibilities will include assisting with various repairs and maintenance tasks, using power, hand, and air tools once you demonstrate proficiency. Additionally, you will be expected to maintain a clean work area and properly care for tools and equipment. It's important to ask questions whenever you have uncertainties or face new challenges, and to consistently follow safety procedures. You will gain a foundational understanding of general repair and preventative maintenance, including welding and automotive diagnostics. This role will also involve documenting repairs, comprehending work orders, and learning the correct handling and storage of tools and equipment. Safety is paramount, so you will learn to observe and practice safety protocols in the garage, including handling hazardous materials. Soft skills such as punctuality, responsibility, and accountability will be emphasized, along with completing time sheets and using computer diagnostics. You may assist more experienced tradespeople with complex repairs and could be required to travel to various work sites and attend field activities within the District and across the state. If you are a minor, a supervisor or staff member will drive you for any travel during the workday.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Work schedule will vary based on agreement between high school and COPA location
• High School Internship will run July 2026, through June 2027.
  • 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, and may continue through 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 16 years of age by first day of employment.
• You must be a junior or senior enrolled in high school during the 2026 - 2027 school year.

• 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 a vo-tech (career and technical center) student in an approved welding vocational program that has provided preparation and training for the duties of this internship
• 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.