CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator

CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator / Field Laborer Location: Taneytown, MD Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: $26.00/hour; higher pay available depending on experience Position Summary We are seeking Class A CDL drivers to support emergency field operations involving specialized equipment, transportation, and physical labor. This position involves transporting equipment and materials to job sites, operating heavy machinery when qualified, and assisting with field assignments involving equipment recovery, railcar maintenance, material handling, and infrastructure repair. The ideal candidate has a valid Class A CDL, heavy equipment operating experience, and the flexibility to respond to emergency assignments. This is a hands-on role that combines driving, equipment operation, and physical labor.

Schedule and Compensation • 40 hours guaranteed per week.

• Significant overtime, with average workweeks of 60+ hours and occasional weeks reaching 70 hours.

• On-call availability 24/7, including 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 accommodations for travel, and layover pay when applicable.

• Full-time position with benefits.

Key Responsibilities • Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with company policies and DOT regulations.

• Drive tractor-trailers to and from job sites and inspect transported loads and equipment.

• Verify transportation permits and ensure overweight and oversized load specifications are accurate.

• Load, unload, move, and stage materials and equipment for field operations.

• Operate heavy equipment, including cranes, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, and excavators, when qualified.

• Assist with equipment assembly, inspections, rigging, and the use of chains, cables, and winches.

• Perform physical fieldwork involving equipment handling, lifting, grading, and site preparation.

• Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools as needed.

• Perform minor equipment maintenance and document service activities. Report more complex mechanical issues to the appropriate supervisor.

• Assist with equipment disassembly, loading, and transportation after job assignments.

• Restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts and supplies.

• Maintain clean, organized, and safe vehicles, equipment, and work areas.

• Participate in daily safety briefings and follow all required safety procedures.

• Assist other departments as needed to support business operations.

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

• Previous experience in construction, equipment operation, or a physically demanding labor position.

• Ability to operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently.

• Comfortable performing hands-on labor and working in changing outdoor conditions.

• Ability to work extended hours, travel when needed, and remain available for emergency callouts 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

• Must successfully complete required qualification tests and safety training.

• Strong awareness of workplace safety and the ability to work effectively as part of a field team.

Preferred Experience • 3+ years of experience operating heavy equipment, including:

• 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 also be considered.

• Experience with rigging, cranes, hydraulic tools, welding, or torch cutting is a plus.

Pre-Employment Requirements • Background check

• Pre-employment drug screening

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