CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Richmond, VA

About this role

CDL-A Rerail Equipment Operator

Location: Richmond, VA

Employment Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire

Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay based on experience

Schedule: 40 hours guaranteed weekly; typically 60+ hours per week, with significant overtime

Benefits

Full benefits package, per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable

About the Position

We are seeking a CDL-A Rerail Equipment Operator to assist with railroad recovery, heavy equipment operations, and related field assignments in the Richmond, VA area. This position combines commercial vehicle operation with hands-on work involving machinery, materials, and specialized railroad recovery equipment.

Driving makes up approximately 10% of the role. Most responsibilities involve equipment operation, material handling, routine maintenance, and assisting with rerailing and other railroad-related activities. Employees must be prepared to respond to emergencies on an on-call basis, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Schedule & Compensation

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40 hours guaranteed per week

• Significant overtime, with average workweeks of 60+ hours
• On-call availability 24/7, including weekends and holidays
• Hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m., paid at time-and-a-half
• Additional compensation may include per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with company policies and DOT requirements.
• Drive tractor-trailers to and from job sites and verify loads, equipment, and permits for oversized or overweight transportation.
• Load, unload, move, and stage equipment and materials at job sites.
• Operate heavy equipment, such as excavators, backhoes, cranes, grapple trucks, and dump trucks, when qualified.
• Assist with equipment setup, rigging, and the use of chains, cables, and winches.
• Use hydraulic tools, welding and cutting equipment, electrical tools, and common hand tools as needed.
• Complete minor equipment maintenance and document service activities; report complex repairs to the appropriate supervisor.
• Participate in safety briefings, follow established safety procedures, and maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas.
• Help prepare, secure, and restock equipment and materials after each assignment.

Requirements

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) with a good driving record.
• Experience in construction, equipment operation, or another physically demanding role.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment safely or complete required training and qualification.
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to assist with basic equipment maintenance.
• Ability to work outdoors, perform physical labor, and travel to job sites as needed.
• Availability for 24/7 emergency callouts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to pass required qualification tests and safety training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Three or more years of experience operating heavy equipment, such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, tractors, or skid-steers.
• Experience with tractor-trailers, equipment transport, rigging, or construction-related work.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Background check
• Pre-employment drug screen
• Why Consider This Role?

Join a specialized field operations team where CDL-A driving and heavy equipment skills support time-sensitive railroad recovery work. This direct-hire opportunity offers guaranteed weekly hours, overtime opportunities, travel-related compensation when applicable, and a full benefits package.