CDL-A Field Equipment Operator – West Chicago, IL

About this role

CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator – Railroad

Location: West Chicago, IL

Job Type: Direct Hire

Starting Pay: $26.00/hour — higher pay may be available depending on experience

Schedule: 40 hours guaranteed weekly + significant overtime

Travel: Local and out-of-area emergency assignments

Benefits

Full-time position with benefits

Position Overview

Looking for a Class A CDL Equipment Operator to support railroad recovery, construction, transportation, and field operations. This is a hands-on position involving driving, heavy equipment operation, rigging, material handling, and railroad work.

24/7 emergency availability is required, including weekends and holidays.

Schedule & Compensation

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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

• Perform required pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment.
• Drive tractor-trailers to and from job sites and verify equipment loads and transportation permits.
• Load, unload, stage, and secure equipment and materials.
• Operate heavy equipment, including excavators, backhoes, cranes, grapple trucks, and dump trucks, when qualified.
• Assist with lifting, equipment setup, and rigging using chains, cables, and winches.
• Use hydraulic tools, welding and cutting equipment, electrical tools, and hand tools as required.
• Monitor equipment condition, perform minor maintenance, and report more complex repair needs.
• Participate in safety briefings, site cleanup, equipment disassembly, and restocking.
• Maintain safe, clean, and organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas.

Requirements

• Valid Class A CDL with a good driving record.
• Experience in construction, equipment operation, or physically demanding labor.
• Ability to perform outdoor fieldwork and operate heavy equipment when qualified.
• Willingness to complete required safety training and qualification tests.
• Availability for emergency callouts 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications

• Three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience or equivalent training and experience.
• Experience with excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, tractors, or skid-steers.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Background check
• Pre-employment drug screen