About this role
CDL-A Track Equipment Operator
Location: Kansas City, MO
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay available depending on experience
Schedule: 40 hours guaranteed per week, with significant overtime
Availability: On-call 24/7, including weekends and holidays
Benefits
Full benefits package
Position Summary
We are seeking a CDL-A Track Equipment Operator to support railroad track maintenance, repair, and construction, including emergency response at train derailment sites. This hands-on role combines heavy equipment operation, physical labor, equipment transportation, and basic mechanical maintenance.
Driving makes up approximately 10% of the job. Most responsibilities involve working at job sites, operating equipment when qualified, and assisting with track repairs and railroad recovery operations. Candidates must be comfortable with unpredictable schedules, emergency callouts, and travel to local and out-of-area job sites.
Schedule & Compensation
-
40 hours guaranteed per week
- Significant overtime; average workweeks are 60+ hours
- On-call availability 24/7, including weekends and holidays
- Hours 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
- Benefits included
Responsibilities
- Inspect trucks, trailers, and equipment before and after use.
- Transport equipment and materials to work sites and ensure loads are properly secured.
- Assist with infrastructure maintenance, repair, construction, grading, and site preparation.
- Operate excavators, backhoes, loaders, cranes, dump trucks, and other heavy equipment when qualified.
- Move and position materials and equipment and assist with rigging using chains, cables, and winches.
- Perform physical labor outdoors and use hydraulic tools, welding and cutting tools, electrical tools, and hand tools as needed.
- Complete minor equipment maintenance, including basic mechanical tasks, and report complex repairs.
- Participate in safety briefings, equipment checks, cleanup, and restocking.
- Follow safety procedures and maintain organized vehicles, tools, and work areas.
Requirements
- Valid Class A CDL with a good driving record.
- Basic mechanical skills, including the ability to perform minor repairs such as oil changes.
- Experience in construction labor, infrastructure maintenance, or another physically demanding role.
- Ability to work outdoors and perform continuous physical tasks.
- Availability for emergency callouts 24/7, including weekends and holidays.
- Ability to complete required qualification tests and safety training.
Preferred Qualifications
- Railroad or related infrastructure experience.
- Experience operating manual-transmission vehicles or equipment.
- Three or more years of heavy equipment experience or equivalent training and experience.
Pre-Employment Requirements
- Background check
- Pre-employment drug screen