Railroad Equipment Operator – CDL-A

• Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
• Starting Salary: From $57,200 per year

Position Overview

We are seeking a Heavy Equipment Field Operator with a valid Class A CDL to support specialized field operations, emergency response activities, equipment transportation, and infrastructure projects throughout the region.

This is a hands-on position for an individual who enjoys operating heavy machinery, working outdoors, and supporting time-sensitive field assignments. This role is not an over-the-road driving position. In addition to hauling equipment, you will operate machinery, assist with field projects, and help keep equipment prepared for deployment.

When emergency work is not active, this position supports equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, safety activities, and facility operations.

Schedule & Compensation

• 40 hours guaranteed per week
• Regular overtime; average workweek is 60+ hours including overtime
• 24/7 on-call emergency response, including weekends and holidays
• Time-and-a-half for hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Per diem, hotel expenses for travel, and layover pay when applicable
• Full benefits package

Key Responsibilities

• Perform DOT-compliant pre- and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment.
• Operate tractor-trailers and safely transport machinery, materials, and equipment to and from work sites.
• Inspect loads and verify permits for overweight and oversized transportation.
• Participate in daily safety meetings and review work plans before starting assignments.
• Load, unload, move, and stage equipment and materials for re-railing, load transfer, track work, grading, and railroad construction.
• Assist with crane assembly, inspection, setup, and operation.
• Rig and connect chains, cables, and winches during derailment recovery operations.
• Operate equipment such as cranes, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, excavators, front-end loaders, bulldozers, rail-bound equipment, tractors, and skid-steer loaders when qualified.
• Assist with railroad track maintenance, repair, new construction, specialty lifting, and related field work.
• Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools .
• Monitor vehicles and equipment to maintain safe and reliable operation.
• Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle service; report major mechanical issues to the appropriate supervisor.
• Assist with equipment breakdown, loading, transportation, and site cleanup.
• Restock vehicles and equipment with required parts, supplies, and components.
• Sort and properly dispose of scrap materials.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas, vehicles, and equipment.
• Follow all safety policies and procedures and assist other departments as needed.

Requirements

• Valid Class A CDL with a good driving record
• Experience in construction, heavy labor, or a similar physically demanding field
• Ability to complete required qualification tests, training, and safety programs
• Must be available for 24/7 emergency response , including weekends and holidays
• Ability to work safely around heavy machinery and other field personnel

Preferred Experience

• 3+ years operating heavy equipment , including backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, or skid-steer loaders
• Equivalent combination of training and hands-on experience may be considered

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Drug screening
• Background check