CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Richmond, VA

CDL-A Rerail Equipment Operator Location: Richmond, VA Employment Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay based on experience Schedule: 40 hours guaranteed weekly; typically 60+ hours per week, with significant overtime Benefits: Full benefits package, per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable About the Position We are seeking a CDL-A Rerail Equipment Operator to assist with railroad recovery, heavy equipment operations, and related field assignments in the Richmond, VA area. This position combines commercial vehicle operation with hands-on work involving machinery, materials, and specialized railroad recovery equipment. Driving makes up approximately 10% of the role. Most responsibilities involve equipment operation, material handling, routine maintenance, and assisting with rerailing and other railroad-related activities. Employees must be prepared to respond to emergencies on an on-call basis, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Schedule & Compensation • 40 hours guaranteed per week

• Significant overtime, with average workweeks of 60+ hours

• On-call availability 24/7, including weekends and holidays

• Hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m., paid at time-and-a-half

• Additional compensation may include per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable

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

• Drive tractor-trailers to and from job sites and verify loads, equipment, and permits for oversized or overweight transportation.

• Load, unload, move, and stage equipment and materials at job sites.

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

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

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

• Complete minor equipment maintenance and document service activities; report complex repairs to the appropriate supervisor.

• Participate in safety briefings, follow established safety procedures, and maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas.

• Help prepare, secure, and restock equipment and materials after each assignment.

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

• Experience in construction, equipment operation, or another physically demanding role.

• Ability to operate heavy equipment safely or complete required training and qualification.

• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to assist with basic equipment maintenance.

• Ability to work outdoors, perform physical labor, and travel to job sites as needed.

• Availability for 24/7 emergency callouts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Ability to pass required qualification tests and safety training.

Preferred Qualifications • Three or more years of experience operating heavy equipment, such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, tractors, or skid-steers.

• Experience with tractor-trailers, equipment transport, rigging, or construction-related work.

Pre-Employment Requirements • Background check

• Pre-employment drug screen

Why Consider This Role? Join a specialized field operations team where CDL-A driving and heavy equipment skills support time-sensitive railroad recovery work. This direct-hire opportunity offers guaranteed weekly hours, overtime opportunities, travel-related compensation when applicable, and a full benefits package.