CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Track
CDL-A Driver/Operator (Track) Location: Candor, NC Job Type: Full-Time Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay available depending on experience Position Overview We are seeking a CDL-A Driver/Operator to support railroad track maintenance, construction, and emergency derailment response operations. This is a hands-on field position where driving is only a small part of the job. Team members operate construction and railroad equipment, perform physical labor, assist with track work and derailment response, and help maintain equipment. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and being on call 24/7 for emergency response.
Schedule & Compensation Full-time position with benefits
40 hours guaranteed each week
Average of 60+ hours per week , with some weeks reaching approximately 70 hours
24/7 on-call availability
Starting pay: $26.00/hour , with higher pay available depending on experience
Work performed outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM is paid at time-and-a-half overtime
Per diem for qualifying travel
Hotel expenses for travel
Layover pay when applicable
Key Responsibilities Assist with railroad track maintenance, repair, construction, grading, and new-build projects .
Support emergency railroad recovery and rerailing operations as needed.
Operate a tractor-trailer to transport equipment and materials to and from work sites.
Complete required pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with DOT regulations.
Inspect transported loads and machinery and verify applicable permits for overweight or oversized equipment.
Load, unload, stage, secure, and position equipment and materials at job sites.
Participate in job planning and daily safety briefings.
Operate heavy equipment when qualified, including:
Cranes
Backhoes
Bulldozers
Excavators
Front-end loaders
Grapple trucks
Dump trucks
Rail-bound equipment
Tractors
Skid-steer loaders
Assist with crane assembly, inspection, setup, operation, disassembly, and loading.
Perform rigging and connect chains, cables, and winches during recovery operations.
Assist with load adjustment/transfer, specialty lifting, railroad car maintenance and repair , and other track-related work.
Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools .
Monitor equipment and vehicles to help maintain safe and reliable operation.
Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle maintenance.
Report major mechanical issues to the Shop Manager or Foreman.
Reload and secure equipment after completing assignments and assist with site cleanup.
Restock vehicles and equipment with parts, components, and supplies.
Sort and properly store scrap materials.
Follow all safety policies and procedures.
Maintain clean and organized vehicles, equipment, tools, and work areas.
Assist other departments or crews when needed.
Requirements Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) with a good driving record.
Construction labor or similar physically demanding work experience.
Ability to safely operate heavy construction equipment.
Comfortable performing hands-on physical labor.
Ability to work in a 24/7 emergency-response/on-call environment , including weekends and holidays.
Ability to successfully complete required qualification, training, and safety programs.
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 combinations of training and experience may be considered.
Pre-Employment Requirements Drug screen
Background check
Interview Requirement: Candidates must bring steel-toed boots to the interview.
Benefits Full-time employment with benefits
Guaranteed 40 hours per week
Significant overtime opportunities
Per diem for qualifying assignments
Hotel accommodations/pay for qualifying travel
Layover pay when applicable