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Class A CDL Heavy Equipment Specialist

Summary

Operates Class A CDL vehicles and heavy construction equipment to support railroad emergency response, recovery, and maintenance operations, with regional travel and 24/7 availability.

Class A CDL Heavy Equipment Specialist

Location: Regional Travel Required
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Pay: From $26.00 per hour (higher compensation may be available based on experience)

Position Overview

We are looking for a Class A CDL Heavy Equipment Specialist to support railroad emergency response and recovery operations. This hands-on role combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, and construction-related work to help restore rail service following derailments and other rail incidents.

When emergency deployments are not active, team members assist with equipment maintenance, inspections, safety training, and shop operations to ensure readiness for future response efforts.

Schedule

  • Guaranteed 40 hours each week
  • Average workweek of approximately 60 hours, with overtime opportunities
  • Must be available for emergency call-outs 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Regional travel required based on operational needs

    • Primary Responsibilities

    Transportation & Equipment Handling

    • Operate Class A CDL commercial vehicles safely to and from project locations.
    • Complete required pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
    • Transport heavy equipment, oversized loads, and materials while complying with DOT regulations.
    • Load, unload, stage, and secure equipment before and after assignments.

      • Emergency Response & Field Operations

      • Assist with railroad recovery efforts, derailment response, track repairs, material transfers, and construction activities.
      • Operate heavy equipment, including:
        • Cranes
        • Excavators
        • Backhoes
        • Dump trucks
        • Grapple trucks
        • Skid-steer loaders
        • Front-end loaders
        • Similar construction equipment
        • Support crane setup, rigging, lifting operations, chains, cables, winches, and related equipment.
        • Operate hydraulic equipment, welding tools, cutting torches, electrical tools, and standard hand tools as needed.

          • Equipment Maintenance & Safety

          • Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance on trucks and equipment.
          • Report mechanical issues and document maintenance activities.
          • Clean and organize equipment, vehicles, and work areas following each assignment.
          • Participate in daily safety meetings and follow established safety procedures.
          • Provide additional operational support when needed.

    Required Qualifications

  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a satisfactory driving record.
  • Experience performing physically demanding work in construction, industrial, mechanical, or similar environments.
  • Ability to safely operate equipment in active job-site conditions.
  • Willingness to travel and respond to emergency call-outs at any time.
  • Ability to complete required safety, equipment, and qualification training.

    • Preferred Qualifications

    Candidates with three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience are encouraged to apply.

    Experience with the following equipment is highly valued:

    • Cranes
    • Excavators
    • Backhoes
    • Bulldozers
    • Front-end loaders
    • Grapple trucks
    • Skid-steer loaders
    • Rail-bound equipment
    • Tractors

    Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive starting pay with higher compensation available based on experience.
  • Overtime paid at 1.5x for eligible hours.
  • Per diem available for qualifying travel.
  • Hotel accommodations provided for overnight assignments.
  • Layover pay when applicable.
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • Long-term direct hire opportunity.

    • Additional Information

    This position requires flexibility, teamwork, and the ability to perform effectively in fast-paced emergency response situations. During periods without emergency assignments, employees support preventive maintenance, equipment servicing, safety training, and general shop operations to maintain operational readiness.

    If you're a Class A CDL driver who enjoys operating heavy equipment, traveling, and working in a hands-on environment, we encourage you to apply.

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