Heavy Equipment Operator & CDL-A Driver (Emergency Rail Services)

Heavy Equipment Operator & CDL-A Driver (Emergency Rail Services)

Location: Richmond, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: From $26.00 per hour (Higher starting pay available based on experience)

Position Overview

We're looking for experienced CDL Class A drivers who enjoy hands-on work and operating heavy equipment. This position supports emergency railroad recovery operations, track maintenance, and specialized lifting projects. Team members transport equipment to job sites, operate construction machinery, and assist with railroad restoration activities.

Because this is an emergency response position, employees must be available for on-call assignments throughout the year. When emergency calls are not active, you'll assist with preventive maintenance, equipment inspections, safety training, and shop support.

Schedule

• Full-time, direct-hire position
• Guaranteed 40 hours per week
• Average workweek of 60+ hours, with overtime opportunities
• On-call availability required 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Frequent regional travel to project and emergency locations

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections on trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with DOT requirements and company policies.
• Safely transport heavy equipment and materials to and from job sites.
• Verify permits and inspect loads for oversized or overweight transportation.
• Participate in daily job planning meetings and safety briefings.
• Load, unload, stage, and secure equipment and materials before and after each assignment.
• Assist with railroad recovery operations, load transfers, track repairs, and new track construction.
• Operate heavy equipment including cranes, excavators, backhoes, dump trucks, grapple trucks, front-end loaders, tractors, and skid-steer loaders.
• Assist with crane assembly, rigging, chains, cables, winches, and lifting operations.
• Safely use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and standard hand tools.
• Perform routine inspections and minor preventive maintenance on equipment and vehicles.
• Report mechanical issues requiring additional repairs.
• Assist with disassembly, loading, and transportation of cranes and specialized equipment after project completion.
• Restock vehicles and equipment with parts, tools, and supplies before the next assignment.
• Help maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas.
• Support other operational teams as needed to meet business demands.
• Follow all company safety policies and established operating procedures.

Qualifications

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a good driving record.
• Experience performing physically demanding construction, industrial, railroad, or similar field work.
• Ability to safely operate construction equipment and powered machinery.
• Willingness to complete required qualification testing, safety training, and ongoing certification requirements.
• Must be available for emergency response assignments at any time, including weekends and holidays.

Preferred Experience

Candidates with 3 or more years of heavy equipment experience are encouraged to apply. Experience operating the following equipment is highly valued:

• Cranes
• Backhoes
• Bulldozers
• Excavators
• Front-end loaders
• Grapple trucks
• Rail-bound equipment
• Tractors
• Skid-steer loaders

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

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting pay from $26.00 per hour, with higher rates based on experience
• Overtime paid at time-and-a-half for qualifying hours
• Per diem for eligible travel
• Hotel accommodations provided for overnight travel
• Layover pay when applicable
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Long-term direct-hire opportunity

Additional Information This role requires flexibility, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently in time-sensitive situations. Employees may be assigned to different crews based on operational needs. During periods without emergency assignments, team members assist with preventive maintenance, equipment servicing, shop activities, and safety training to ensure equipment remains ready for deployment.