CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator / Field Laborer

CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator / Laborer Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Location: Multiple Locations Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay depending on experience Position Summary We are seeking dependable Class A CDL drivers with heavy equipment operating experience for a field-based role involving emergency railroad recovery, equipment transportation, construction support, and maintenance activities. This position combines commercial driving, equipment operation, and hands-on physical labor. Driving accounts for approximately 10% of the job, with most time spent operating machinery, handling materials, and supporting field crews.

Schedule and Compensation

• 40 hours guaranteed per week.
• Significant overtime, with average workweeks of 60+ hours and occasional weeks reaching 70 hours.
• 24/7 on-call availability required, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Time-and-a-half overtime pay for hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
• Additional compensation includes per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable.
• Full-time benefits package.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with company policies and DOT regulations.
• Operate tractor-trailers to transport equipment and materials to and from job sites.
• Inspect loads and verify transportation permits for overweight and oversized equipment.
• Participate in job briefings and safety meetings to review work plans and ensure safe operations.
• Load, unload, move, and stage materials and equipment for field assignments.
• Assist with equipment assembly, inspection, rigging, and operation, including the use of chains, cables, and winches.
• Operate heavy equipment such as cranes, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, and excavators when qualified.
• Assist with specialized lifting, equipment recovery, material transfers, railcar maintenance, infrastructure repairs, grading, and construction-related activities.
• Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools as required.
• Monitor vehicles and equipment to maintain operational readiness and minimize downtime.
• Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle maintenance, referring more complex repairs to the appropriate personnel.
• Assist with equipment disassembly, loading, and transportation following job completion.
• Restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts, supplies, and components.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas, vehicles, and equipment.
• Follow all applicable safety policies and procedures.
• Assist other departments as needed to support operational requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a good driving record.
• Experience in construction labor or a similar physically demanding role.
• Ability to pass required qualification tests, training programs, and safety assessments.
• Availability for 24/7 emergency response assignments, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to perform physical labor and work in demanding field environments.
• Commitment to safe work practices and professional conduct.

Preferred Qualifications

• Three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience.
• Experience operating backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, and skid-steer loaders.
• Experience with equipment transportation, rigging, or construction-related activities.
• An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered.

Work Environment

• Frequent travel to local and out-of-area job sites.
• Emergency assignments may require extended work hours and overnight stays.
• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Physically demanding work involving lifting, carrying, equipment handling, and extended periods of activity.
• Ability to remain flexible and respond to changing operational needs.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Pre-employment drug screening.
• Background check.
• Completion of required safety training and qualification programs.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Additional travel compensation, including per diem and hotel pay when applicable.
• Opportunities for training and professional development.

Join Our Team

Take on a hands-on role where your CDL, equipment operating skills, and mechanical knowledge make a difference. Join a team that values safety, teamwork, and dependable field operations.