CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator / Field Laborer

CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator / Laborer Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Location: Multiple Locations Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay depending on experience Position Summary We are seeking dependable Class A CDL drivers with heavy equipment operating experience for a field-based role involving emergency railroad recovery, equipment transportation, construction support, and maintenance activities. This position combines commercial driving, equipment operation, and hands-on physical labor. Driving accounts for approximately 10% of the job, with most time spent operating machinery, handling materials, and supporting field crews. Schedule and Compensation 40 hours guaranteed per week. Significant overtime, with average workweeks of 60+ hours and occasional weeks reaching 70 hours. 24/7 on-call availability required, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Time-and-a-half overtime pay for hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM. Additional compensation includes per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable. Full-time benefits package. Key Responsibilities Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with company policies and DOT regulations. Operate tractor-trailers to transport equipment and materials to and from job sites. Inspect loads and verify transportation permits for overweight and oversized equipment. Participate in job briefings and safety meetings to review work plans and ensure safe operations. Load, unload, move, and stage materials and equipment for field assignments. Assist with equipment assembly, inspection, rigging, and operation, including the use of chains, cables, and winches. Operate heavy equipment such as cranes, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, and excavators when qualified. Assist with specialized lifting, equipment recovery, material transfers, railcar maintenance, infrastructure repairs, grading, and construction-related activities. Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools as required. Monitor vehicles and equipment to maintain operational readiness and minimize downtime. Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle maintenance, referring more complex repairs to the appropriate personnel. Assist with equipment disassembly, loading, and transportation following job completion. Restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts, supplies, and components. Maintain clean, organized work areas, vehicles, and equipment. Follow all applicable safety policies and procedures. Assist other departments as needed to support operational requirements. Required Qualifications Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a good driving record. Experience in construction labor or a similar physically demanding role. Ability to pass required qualification tests, training programs, and safety assessments. Availability for 24/7 emergency response assignments, including weekends and holidays. Ability to perform physical labor and work in demanding field environments. Commitment to safe work practices and professional conduct. Preferred Qualifications Three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience. Experience operating backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, and skid-steer loaders. Experience with equipment transportation, rigging, or construction-related activities. An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered. Work Environment Frequent travel to local and out-of-area job sites. Emergency assignments may require extended work hours and overnight stays. Outdoor work in varying weather conditions. Physically demanding work involving lifting, carrying, equipment handling, and extended periods of activity. Ability to remain flexible and respond to changing operational needs. Pre-Employment Requirements Pre-employment drug screening. Background check. Completion of required safety training and qualification programs. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision insurance. 401(k) retirement plan. Paid time off and holidays. Additional travel compensation, including per diem and hotel pay when applicable. Opportunities for training and professional development. Join Our Team Take on a hands-on role where your CDL, equipment operating skills, and mechanical knowledge make a difference. Join a team that values safety, teamwork, and dependable field operations.