CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator

CDL-A Rerail Equipment Operator Location: Candor, NC Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: $26.00/hour — higher pay available depending on experience Benefits: Full-time benefits Schedule: 40 hours guaranteed weekly + significant overtime Availability: 24/7 emergency on-call Position Overview 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 • Conduct DOT-required inspections before and after operating trucks, trailers, and equipment.

• Transport machinery, materials, and supplies safely to work locations.

• Check cargo and confirm permits for oversized or overweight loads.

• Take part in daily planning, safety meetings, and job briefings.

• Load, unload, move, and position equipment and materials for railroad and rerailing work.

• Assist with:

• Train rerailing

• Load adjustment and transfer

• Track maintenance and repairs

• Railroad construction

• Grading

• Assist with crane assembly, setup, inspection, and operation.

• Perform rigging activities using chains, cables, and winches.

• Operate or assist with the following equipment:

• Cranes

• Backhoes

• Bulldozers

• Excavators

• Front-end loaders

• Grapple trucks

• Dump trucks

• Rail-bound equipment

• Tractors

• Skid-steer loaders

• Work with hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools.

• Monitor equipment and vehicles for safe and dependable operation.

• Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle servicing.

• Assist with equipment disassembly, loading, transportation, and job-site cleanup.

• Keep vehicles and equipment stocked with necessary parts, components, and supplies.

• Maintain orderly work areas, vehicles, tools, and equipment.

• Follow all applicable safety requirements.

• Provide support to other teams or departments as needed.

Qualifications • Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a good driving record.

• Experience in construction, heavy equipment operation, or other physically demanding labor.

• Ability to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively.

• Ability to complete required qualification, training, and safety programs.

• Must be available for 24/7 emergency response , including weekends and holidays.

• Able to perform physical field work and work extended hours when required.

Preferred Experience 3+ years of heavy equipment operation , including experience with:

• Backhoes

• Bulldozers

• Excavators

• Front-end loaders

• Grapple trucks

• Rail-bound equipment

• Tractors

• Skid-steer loaders

Equivalent combinations of relevant training and hands-on experience may be considered.

Schedule & Compensation • 40 hours guaranteed per week.

• Typical workweeks average 60+ hours , with some weeks reaching approximately 70 hours .

• Hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM are paid at the applicable 1.5x overtime rate .

• Per diem, hotel expenses for travel, and layover pay may be available when applicable.

• 24/7 on-call availability is required for emergency response.

Pre-Employment Requirements • Drug screening

• Background check

• Required qualification and safety testing

Interview: Candidates should bring steel-toed boots to the interview.