CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Kansas City, MO

CDL-A Railroad Equipment Operator
Location: Kansas City, MO
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Pay: $26.00/hour, with higher pay depending on experience
Schedule: 40 hours guaranteed per week; typical workweeks average 60+ hours and may reach 70 hours
Availability: On-call 24/7, including weekends and holidays
Travel: Local and out-of-area emergency assignments
Benefits: Full benefits package
Position Overview
We are hiring a CDL-A Railroad Equipment Operator to assist with emergency railroad recovery and related field operations in the Kansas City area. This hands-on role combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, physical labor, and basic mechanical maintenance.
Assignments may include train derailment recovery, load adjustment and transfer, railcar repairs, track maintenance, and track construction. Driving makes up approximately 10% of the job; most duties involve field operations, equipment handling, and supporting recovery crews.
Employees must be comfortable with unpredictable callouts, extended workweeks, and responding quickly to emergencies. When not assigned to field emergencies, team members help with equipment maintenance, preventive maintenance (PM), and safety training.

Schedule & Compensation

- 40 hours guaranteed per week

- Significant overtime; average workweeks are 60+ hours

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

- Hours 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

- Benefits included

Responsibilities

- Complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment.

- Transport equipment to and from job sites and ensure loads and permits meet transportation requirements.

- Assist with field recovery, heavy lifting, load transfers, and equipment positioning.

- Operate cranes, excavators, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, and other heavy equipment when qualified.

- Assist with equipment assembly and rigging using chains, cables, and winches.

- Use hydraulic tools, welding and cutting equipment, electrical tools, and hand tools.

- Perform basic mechanical maintenance and document service completed.

- Take part in safety briefings, equipment checks, site cleanup, and restocking.

- Follow all safety procedures and keep equipment and work areas organized.

Requirements

- Valid Class A CDL with a good driving record.

- Construction labor, equipment operation, or other physically demanding work experience.

- Basic mechanical ability and willingness to perform minor equipment repairs.

- Ability to work outdoors, handle physical tasks, and respond to emergency assignments.

- Availability for 24/7 callouts, including weekends and holidays.

- Ability to complete required training and safety qualifications.

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience operating manual-transmission vehicles or equipment.

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

Pre-Employment Requirements

- Background check

- Pre-employment drug screen