CDL-A Excavator Operator

CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Candor, NC Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay depending on experience Position Overview We are seeking a Class A CDL driver with heavy equipment operating skills to support emergency field operations and infrastructure maintenance. This hands-on position involves transporting equipment, operating cranes and excavators, handling materials, and assisting with recovery and repair work. Driving makes up approximately 10% of the role.

Schedule & Benefits

• 40 hours guaranteed per week
• Average of 60+ hours per week, with some weeks reaching 70 hours
• On-call availability 24/7, including weekends and holidays
• Overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Per diem for qualifying assignments
• Hotel and layover pay for eligible travel assignments
• Full-time benefits package

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, cranes, and other heavy equipment to complete specialized field assignments.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with DOT regulations.
• Transport machinery, materials, and equipment to and from job sites using tractor-trailers.
• Inspect loads and verify permits for oversized or overweight equipment.
• Assist with loading, unloading, positioning, and securing equipment and materials.
• Participate in daily safety briefings and coordinate with team members to complete assignments safely and efficiently.
• Use chains, cables, winches, and other rigging equipment to assist with lifting and equipment handling.
• Operate equipment such as backhoes, excavators, cranes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, bulldozers, front-end loaders, and skid steers, as qualified.
• Assist with equipment recovery, material handling, grading, lifting, and construction-related field activities.
• Work with hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and standard hand tools.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance and minor repairs, including routine service tasks such as oil changes.
• Monitor equipment condition, identify mechanical issues, and report major repairs to the Shop Manager or Foreman.
• Assist with equipment assembly, disassembly, and transportation at the completion of assignments.
• Clean, organize, and restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts, tools, and supplies.
• Maintain a safe and organized work environment while following all required safety procedures.
• Assist other departments and perform additional duties as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) with a good driving record.
• Experience in construction, industrial labor, or another physically demanding role.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment and perform hands-on fieldwork.
• Basic mechanical knowledge and the ability to perform minor equipment repairs.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and respond quickly to emergency assignments.
• Availability to work an on-call schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work extended hours and travel for assignments as needed.
• Ability to complete required safety training and qualification testing.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating heavy equipment.
• Experience operating excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, or skid-steer loaders.
• Experience operating equipment with a manual transmission.
• Strong mechanical skills and experience performing basic equipment maintenance.

Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Pre-employment drug screening
• Background check

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