Class A CDL Heavy Equipment Specialist
Class A CDL Heavy Equipment Specialist Location: Regional Travel Required Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: From $26.00 per hour (higher compensation may be available based on experience) Position Overview We are looking for a Class A CDL Heavy Equipment Specialist to support railroad emergency response and recovery operations. This hands-on role combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, and construction-related work to help restore rail service following derailments and other rail incidents. When emergency deployments are not active, team members assist with equipment maintenance, inspections, safety training, and shop operations to ensure readiness for future response efforts.
Schedule Guaranteed 40 hours each week
Average workweek of approximately 60 hours , with overtime opportunities
Must be available for emergency call-outs 24/7 , including nights, weekends, and holidays
Regional travel required based on operational needs
Primary Responsibilities Transportation & Equipment Handling
Operate Class A CDL commercial vehicles safely to and from project locations.
Complete required pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
Transport heavy equipment, oversized loads, and materials while complying with DOT regulations.
Load, unload, stage, and secure equipment before and after assignments.
Emergency Response & Field Operations
Assist with railroad recovery efforts, derailment response, track repairs, material transfers, and construction activities.
Operate heavy equipment, including:
Cranes
Excavators
Backhoes
Dump trucks
Grapple trucks
Skid-steer loaders
Front-end loaders
Similar construction equipment
Support crane setup, rigging, lifting operations, chains, cables, winches, and related equipment.
Operate hydraulic equipment, welding tools, cutting torches, electrical tools, and standard hand tools as needed.
Equipment Maintenance & Safety
Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance on trucks and equipment.
Report mechanical issues and document maintenance activities.
Clean and organize equipment, vehicles, and work areas following each assignment.
Participate in daily safety meetings and follow established safety procedures.
Provide additional operational support when needed.
Required Qualifications Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a satisfactory driving record.
Experience performing physically demanding work in construction, industrial, mechanical, or similar environments.
Ability to safely operate equipment in active job-site conditions.
Willingness to travel and respond to emergency call-outs at any time.
Ability to complete required safety, equipment, and qualification training.
Preferred Qualifications Candidates with three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience are encouraged to apply.
Experience with the following equipment is highly valued:
Cranes
Excavators
Backhoes
Bulldozers
Front-end loaders
Grapple trucks
Skid-steer loaders
Rail-bound equipment
Tractors
Compensation & Benefits Competitive starting pay with higher compensation available based on experience.
Overtime paid at 1.5x for eligible hours.
Per diem available for qualifying travel.
Hotel accommodations provided for overnight assignments.
Layover pay when applicable.
Comprehensive benefits package.
Long-term direct hire opportunity.
Additional Information This position requires flexibility, teamwork, and the ability to perform effectively in fast-paced emergency response situations. During periods without emergency assignments, employees support preventive maintenance, equipment servicing, safety training, and general shop operations to maintain operational readiness.
If you're a Class A CDL driver who enjoys operating heavy equipment, traveling, and working in a hands-on environment, we encourage you to apply.