CDL-A Rerail Equipment Operator

About the role

We are seeking a Class A CDL Equipment Operator to support railroad emergency response and rerailing projects. This is a hands-on position combining equipment operation, commercial driving, material handling, and physical field work. Driving makes up only a portion of the role. When not responding to emergencies, employees may work in the shop, complete preventive maintenance, and participate in safety training.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre- and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with DOT requirements
• Transport equipment and materials safely to and from work sites
• Inspect loads and verify permits for oversized and overweight equipment
• Participate in daily job planning and safety briefings
• Load, unload, move, and position equipment and materials for rerailing and railroad projects
• Assist with train rerailing, load adjustment/transfer, track maintenance, repairs, construction, and grading
• Help assemble, inspect, set up, and operate cranes and other heavy equipment
• Assist with rigging and connecting chains, cables, and winches
• Operate equipment including: Cranes, Backhoes, Bulldozers, Excavators, Front-end loaders, Grapple trucks, Dump trucks, Rail-bound equipment, Tractors, Skid-steer loaders
• Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools
• Monitor vehicles and equipment to maintain safe and reliable operation
• Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle service
• Assist with equipment disassembly, loading, and site cleanup
• Restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts, components, and supplies
• Maintain clean and organized work areas, vehicles, tools, and equipment
• Follow all required safety procedures
• Assist other teams or departments when needed

Requirements

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a good driving record
• Construction, equipment operation, or other physically demanding labor experience
• Ability to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively
• Ability to complete required qualification, training, and safety programs
• Must be available 24/7 for emergency response, including weekends and holidays
• Comfortable working extended hours and performing physical field work
• Pre-employment: Drug screening, background check, required qualification and safety testing
• Preferred: 3+ years of heavy equipment operating experience, including Backhoe, Bulldozer, Excavator, Front-end loader, Grapple truck, Rail-bound equipment, Tractor, Skid-steer loader. Equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered.

Benefits

Full-time benefits

Pay

Starting pay: $26.00/hour — higher pay available depending on experience.

Schedule

40 hours guaranteed per week; typical workweeks average 60+ hours, with some weeks reaching approximately 70 hours. Hours outside Monday‑Friday, 7:00 AM‑4:00 PM are paid at time‑and‑a‑half overtime rates. Additional compensation may include per diem, hotel expenses for travel, and layover pay when applicable. 24/7 on‑call availability is required for emergency response.