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.