CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Richmond, VA
qualdoc · Richmond, VA · onsite
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:
- 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.