CDL-A Field Equipment Operator – West Chicago, IL
qualdoc · West Chicago, IL · onsite
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:
- 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