CDL-A Track Equipment Operator – Railroad Construction

CDL-A Track Equipment Operator Location: Richmond, VA Job Type: Direct Hire | Full-Time Starting Rate: $26.00/hour (higher depending on experience) Benefits: Full benefits package Position Overview We are seeking a CDL-A Track Equipment Operator to support railroad construction, maintenance, and emergency response work. This is a hands-on position combining commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, material handling, and physical labor. The role is primarily field-based and requires employees to respond to emergency railroad situations as needed. Applicants must be comfortable working long hours, traveling when required, and being available around the clock.

Schedule & Compensation 40 hours guaranteed per week.

Significant overtime; workweeks average 60+ hours and may reach 70.

Hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., are paid at time-and-a-half.

On-call availability required 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

Per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable.

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

Transport equipment and materials to and from job sites; inspect loads and verify permits for oversized or overweight loads.

Attend daily work-planning discussions and safety briefings.

Load, unload, stage, secure, and move materials and equipment for track construction, repairs, and maintenance.

Assist with crane assembly, inspection, operation, disassembly, and loading as needed.

Operate heavy equipment such as cranes, backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, dump trucks, tractors, skid steers, and rail-bound equipment when qualified.

Assist with rigging using chains, cables, and winches.

Perform grading, specialty lifting, equipment transfers, and other work related to railroad construction and track maintenance.

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

Monitor equipment and vehicles to maintain safe, reliable operation and minimize downtime.

Perform and document minor equipment maintenance; report complex mechanical issues to the shop manager or foreman.

Restock vehicles and equipment with parts and supplies, organize materials, and sort scrap into designated areas.

Clean job sites and keep vehicles, equipment, tools, and work areas organized.

Follow all safety policies and procedures and assist other departments when needed.

Complete safety training and preventive maintenance during downtime between field assignments.

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

Experience in construction labor or another physically demanding role.

Ability to perform physical work and operate heavy equipment safely.

Availability for 24/7 emergency callouts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Ability to complete required qualification tests and safety training.

Preferred Experience Three or more years of experience operating heavy equipment, including backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, or skid-steer loaders.

Experience in railroad track work, construction, equipment maintenance, or related field operations.

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.