CDL-A Excavator & Heavy Equipment Operator – Candor, NC

CDL-A Excavator Operator – Railroad Recovery Location: Candor, NC Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay available depending on experience Schedule: 40 hours guaranteed per week, with significant overtime Availability: On-call 24/7, including weekends and holidays Benefits: Full benefits package Position Overview We are hiring CDL-A operators to support railroad recovery and emergency derailment response. This hands-on position involves transporting equipment, operating excavators and cranes when qualified, and assisting with railroad car recovery, load transfers, and related equipment operations. Driving makes up approximately 10% of the job. Most work takes place at job sites and involves operating heavy machinery, handling equipment, and performing physical labor. Employees must be prepared to respond to emergencies at any time and travel to local or out-of-area assignments.

Key Responsibilities • Operate excavators and other heavy equipment to support field assignments.

• Transport machinery, tools, and materials using a tractor-trailer.

• Conduct required vehicle and equipment inspections before and after trips.

• Check load securement and verify permits for overweight or oversized loads.

• Assist with equipment positioning, lifting operations, load movement, and field recovery activities.

• Connect and inspect chains, cables, and winches and assist with rigging tasks when trained and qualified.

• Use hydraulic equipment, hand tools, welding and cutting tools, and other equipment required for assigned work.

• Complete basic equipment maintenance and report mechanical issues that require additional service.

• Participate in safety briefings and follow established operating procedures.

• Assist with loading, unloading, cleanup, and restocking equipment and supplies.

• Support other field teams as operational needs change.

Skills and Qualifications • Class A CDL with a good driving record.

• Hands-on experience operating excavators or comparable heavy equipment strongly preferred.

• Experience in construction, equipment operations, or physically demanding field work.

• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to perform minor equipment repairs.

• Familiarity with equipment inspections, load securement, and safe jobsite practices.

• Ability to work independently while coordinating with a field team.

• Willingness to respond to emergency calls and work flexible hours.

• Ability to complete required safety training and qualification tests.

Schedule and Compensation • 40 hours guaranteed per week.

• Average of 60 or more hours per week, with significant overtime opportunities.

• On-call availability 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays.

• Time-and-a-half for hours outside Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m., under the stated pay arrangement.

• Per diem, hotel reimbursement, and layover pay for qualifying travel assignments.

Additional Requirements • Pre-employment drug screen and background check.

• Required safety training and equipment qualifications.

Benefits • Full-time direct-hire opportunity with company benefits and applicable travel compensation.