CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Field Operations

CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Richmond, VA Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: $26.00/hour; higher pay may be available depending on experience Job Overview We are hiring a CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator to transport equipment and materials, operate construction machinery, and assist with demanding field projects. This is a hands-on role that combines commercial driving, equipment operation, physical labor, and equipment maintenance. It is not an over-the-road driving position. Employees must be available for emergency assignments at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Schedule & Compensation 40 hours guaranteed per week. Average of 60+ hours per week, with some weeks reaching 70 hours. On-call availability 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Overtime paid at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM. Per diem for qualifying assignments. Hotel accommodations and layover pay for eligible travel assignments. Full-time benefits package. Key Responsibilities Operate heavy construction equipment to support field maintenance, site preparation, grading, and infrastructure projects. Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and machinery in accordance with DOT regulations. Drive tractor-trailers to transport equipment, materials, and supplies to assigned job sites. Inspect transported loads and verify permits for oversized and overweight equipment. Assist with unloading, staging, positioning, and securing equipment and materials. Participate in daily safety meetings and coordinate work activities with supervisors and crew members. Operate equipment such as excavators, backhoes, cranes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, bulldozers, front-end loaders, and skid-steer loaders, as qualified. Assist with equipment assembly, inspections, and safe operation. Use chains, cables, winches, and rigging equipment to assist with lifting and material handling. Perform construction-related tasks, including grading, site preparation, maintenance, and repair work. Work with hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools. Monitor equipment condition and perform basic maintenance and minor repairs, including routine service tasks. Document equipment maintenance and report major mechanical issues to the Shop Manager or Foreman. Assist with loading and securing machinery for transportation after completing assignments. Clean job sites, organize tools, and restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts and supplies. Sort and dispose of scrap materials in designated areas. Assist other teams and departments as needed to support operational requirements. Maintain safe, clean, and organized work areas while following all company safety procedures. Required Qualifications Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) with a good driving record. Experience in construction, industrial labor, or another physically demanding field. Ability to operate heavy equipment and perform hands-on fieldwork. Basic mechanical knowledge and ability to perform minor equipment maintenance. Ability to work outdoors and perform continuous physical labor. Strong awareness of workplace safety and the ability to work effectively with a team. Availability for on-call assignments, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Ability to work extended hours and travel as needed. Must successfully complete required safety training and qualification programs. Preferred Qualifications 3+ years of heavy equipment operating experience. Experience with backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, and skid-steer loaders. Experience operating manual transmission equipment. Mechanical aptitude and experience using hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and hand tools. Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Frequent outdoor work in varying weather conditions. Physically demanding work involving standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying materials. Ability to work on uneven surfaces and around heavy machinery. Ability to lift and move equipment and materials as required. Must be available for emergency assignments throughout the year, including weekends and holidays. Pay & Benefits Starting pay of $26.00/hour; higher pay may be available depending on experience. 40 guaranteed hours per week with significant overtime opportunities. Per diem, hotel accommodations, and eligible layover pay. Medical, dental, and vision insurance. 401(k) retirement plan. Disability, life, and AD&D insurance. Paid time off and holidays. Training and career advancement opportunities. Pre-Employment Requirements Pre-employment drug screening. Background check. Interview Requirement: Candidates must bring steel-toed boots to the interview.