CDL-A Equipment Operator – Rail Emergency Response

• Employment Type: Direct Hire | Full-Time
• Starting Pay: From $26.00 per hour (higher rates available based on experience)

Position Overview

We are seeking a dependable CDL-A professional to join a specialized field operations team supporting rail recovery, infrastructure maintenance, and emergency response projects. This position combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, and hands-on labor in a safety-focused environment.

The successful candidate will transport equipment and materials, assist with railroad recovery efforts, support maintenance and construction activities, and operate specialized machinery when qualified. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy varied work assignments, travel opportunities, and working outdoors as part of a highly skilled team.

Schedule & Pay Details

• Minimum of 40 hours per week guaranteed
• Typical workweeks average 60+ hours with overtime
• On-call availability required 24/7 for emergency response, including weekends and holidays
• Overtime paid for hours worked outside standard weekday schedule (7:00 AM–4:00 PM)
• Additional compensation includes per diem, travel accommodations, and layover pay

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct DOT-compliant pre-trip and post-trip inspections on trucks, trailers, and equipment
• Transport heavy equipment and materials using tractor-trailers to various job sites
• Confirm load security and ensure compliance with oversize/overweight permit requirements
• Participate in daily job briefings and safety meetings prior to work activities
• Load, unload, and position equipment and materials for field operations
• Assist with rerailing efforts, load transfers, and track repair or construction work
• Support setup, breakdown, and operation of cranes and heavy equipment
• Operate equipment such as excavators, backhoes, dump trucks, grapple trucks, and similar machinery (based on qualifications)
• Perform rigging tasks using chains, cables, and winches during lifting and recovery operations
• Use hydraulic tools, cutting torches, welding equipment, electrical tools, and hand tools
• Monitor equipment performance and complete minor maintenance as needed
• Report mechanical issues requiring repair to supervisors
• Assist with teardown and loading of equipment at the conclusion of projects
• Restock vehicles and organize tools and materials for future assignments
• Maintain clean and organized trucks, equipment, and work areas
• Follow all company safety standards and procedures at all times

Required Qualifications

• Valid Class A CDL with a clean driving record
• Experience in construction, labor, or other physically demanding roles
• Ability to pass required safety training and qualification programs
• Willingness to be available for emergency call-outs at any time

Preferred Experience

• 3+ years operating heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, skid steers, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, or similar machinery
• Experience working in rail, construction, or industrial environments

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Pre-Employment drug screen
• Background check

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off