CDL-A Railroad Recovery Equipment Operator

CDL-A Railroad Recovery Equipment Operator

Location: Minneapolis, MN Job Type: Direct Hire Starting Salary: From $57,200 per year (higher starting pay available based on experience)

About the Position

We are looking for a CDL-A Railroad Recovery Equipment Operator to join a team that responds to railroad incidents and supports rail infrastructure projects. This position combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, and physical labor to help restore rail service, transport specialized equipment, and complete track-related work.

While a valid CDL-A is required, this is not a long-haul driving position. Most of your time will be spent operating equipment, assisting with field operations, maintaining equipment, and supporting emergency response efforts.

This is a full-time, direct hire opportunity with benefits, travel reimbursement, and substantial overtime potential.

Work Schedule

• Guaranteed 40 hours each week
• Typical workweek averages 60+ hours, including overtime
• Must be available for emergency call-outs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays

Pay & Benefits

• Starting salary from $57,200 annually (higher compensation based on experience)
• Overtime paid at 1.5x the regular rate for work performed outside the standard Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:00 PM schedule
• Per diem during eligible travel
• Hotel accommodations for overnight assignments
• Layover pay when applicable
• Comprehensive benefits package

Responsibilities

• Complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in compliance with DOT regulations and company safety standards.
• Safely transport heavy equipment, machinery, and materials to and from job sites using a Class A CDL tractor-trailer.
• Inspect transported equipment and verify permits for oversized and overweight loads.
• Participate in daily work planning meetings and mandatory safety briefings.
• Load, unload, organize, and stage equipment and materials for rerailing operations, load transfers, railroad maintenance, repairs, grading, and new track construction.
• Assist with derailment recovery by helping assemble and operate cranes and specialty lifting equipment.
• Connect chains, cables, winches, and rigging equipment while following established safety procedures.
• Operate heavy equipment, including: cranes, backhoes, excavators, grapple trucks, dump trucks, bulldozers, front-end loaders, rail-bound equipment, tractors, skid-steer loaders.
• Perform work using hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and standard hand tools.
• Monitor equipment condition and identify maintenance needs before they become major issues.
• Perform minor equipment servicing and document maintenance completed, referring complex repairs to maintenance personnel.
• Assist with dismantling, loading, and securing cranes and other specialized equipment after each assignment.
• Replenish tools, supplies, and replacement parts upon returning to the home facility to ensure emergency readiness.
• Maintain clean vehicles, equipment, and organized work areas.
• Support additional operational assignments as needed.
• Follow all established safety policies and procedures.

Qualifications

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) with a satisfactory driving record.
• Experience performing physically demanding construction, industrial, railroad, or similar labor.
• Ability to complete required qualification testing and safety training.
• Must be available to respond to emergency calls at any time, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Comfortable working outdoors in changing weather conditions and performing physically demanding tasks.

Preferred Experience

Applicants with 3 or more years of experience operating heavy equipment are preferred. Experience with the following equipment is especially valuable: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor, skid-steer loader.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and practical experience will also be considered.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening
• Successfully complete a background check

Why This Opportunity? This position is ideal for professionals who enjoy operating heavy equipment, working in a team-oriented environment, and responding to unique challenges that require quick thinking and safe, efficient execution. You'll play an important role in restoring railroad operations while building a rewarding career with competitive pay, excellent overtime opportunities, travel benefits, and long-term stability.