CDL-A Rerail Operator

CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Rerail Location: Minneapolis, MN Job Type: Direct Hire Pay: Starting at $26.00/hour, with higher pay available depending on experience Position Overview We are hiring a CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator to support railroad emergency recovery and rerailing projects. This is primarily a field equipment and labor position, not an over-the-road driving job. Driving typically makes up only about 10% of the work. The remainder involves operating heavy equipment, handling materials, assisting with railroad recovery activities, and performing hands-on work at job sites. Because derailment response can happen at any time, candidates must be comfortable with 24/7 on-call availability, including nights, weekends, and holidays. During periods without emergency assignments, employees may work at the shop completing equipment preventive maintenance, inspections, and safety training.

Responsibilities Complete pre- and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with DOT requirements.

Transport equipment, machinery, and materials safely to and from work locations.

Inspect loads and confirm permits for oversized or overweight equipment.

Participate in daily work planning and safety briefings.

Load, unload, move, and stage equipment and materials for rerailing and railroad operations.

Assist with train rerailing, load adjustment and transfer, railroad car maintenance/repair, track maintenance, repair, and new construction.

Help assemble, inspect, and operate cranes and other equipment.

Assist with rigging and connecting chains, cables, and winches.

Operate equipment such as:

Cranes

Backhoes

Bulldozers

Excavators

Front-end loaders

Grapple trucks

Dump trucks

Rail-bound equipment

Tractors

Skid-steer loaders

Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools.

Monitor vehicles and equipment to help maintain safe and reliable operation.

Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle servicing.

Assist with equipment disassembly, loading, and cleanup after assignments.

Restock vehicles and equipment with parts, components, and supplies.

Maintain organized work areas, vehicles, tools, and equipment.

Follow all safety policies and procedures.

Assist other departments or crews as needed.

Requirements Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a good driving record.

Construction, equipment operation, or other physically demanding labor experience.

Ability to safely operate heavy equipment.

Ability to complete required qualification, training, and safety programs.

Must be available 24/7 for emergency response , including weekends and holidays.

Comfortable performing physical field work and working extended hours when required.

Preferred Experience 3+ years of heavy equipment operating experience , including:

Backhoe

Bulldozer

Excavator

Front-end loader

Grapple truck

Rail-bound equipment

Tractor

Skid-steer loader

Equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered.

Schedule & Compensation 40 hours guaranteed per week.

Typical workweeks average 60+ hours , with some weeks reaching approximately 70 hours.

Hours outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM are paid at time-and-a-half overtime rates .

Additional compensation may include per diem, hotel expenses for travel, and layover pay , when applicable.

24/7 on-call availability is required for emergency response.

Pre-Employment Requirements Drug screening

Background check

Required qualification and safety testing

Interview: Candidates should bring steel-toed boots to the interview.