Emergency Rail Recovery Operator (CDL-A)

Emergency Rail Recovery Operator (CDL-A)

Location:

Richmond, VA

Employment Type:

Direct Hire | Full-Time
Starting Pay:
From $26.00 per hour (higher rates available based on experience)

We are seeking a dependable CDL-A professional to join a specialized field operations team supporting rail recovery, infrastructure maintenance, and emergency response projects. This position combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, and hands-on labor in a safety-focused environment.

The successful candidate will transport equipment and materials, assist with railroad recovery efforts, support maintenance and construction activities, and operate specialized machinery when qualified. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy varied work assignments, travel opportunities, and working outdoors as part of a highly skilled team.

• Full-time direct hire opportunity
• Guaranteed 40 hours per week
• Consistent overtime opportunities averaging 60+ hours weekly
• Must be available for emergency dispatches 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Weekend and holiday response may be required

• Starting wage of $26.00 per hour or higher based on experience
• Overtime paid at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate for hours worked outside Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Per diem provided during travel assignments
• Company-paid lodging for overnight travel
• Layover compensation when applicable

• Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with DOT regulations and company standards
• Safely transport machinery, tools, and materials to and from project locations
• Verify permits and documentation for oversized and overweight loads
• Assist with loading, unloading, securing, and staging equipment for field operations

• Participate in daily work planning meetings and safety briefings
• Support rail recovery operations, load transfers, track maintenance, repairs, and new construction projects
• Prepare work areas and materials needed for assigned tasks
• Assist with cleanup and site restoration following project completion

• Assist with the setup, inspection, and operation of cranes and other specialized equipment
• Support rigging activities involving chains, cables, winches, and lifting devices
• Operate heavy equipment as qualified, including:
  • Cranes
  • Excavators
  • Backhoes
  • Grapple trucks
  • Dump trucks
  • Front-end loaders
  • Skid steers
  • Additional construction and rail-support equipment
• Perform all work in compliance with established safety procedures and operational guidelines

• Monitor equipment performance and report operational concerns
• Perform routine servicing and minor maintenance on vehicles and equipment
• Document maintenance activities and communicate repair needs to supervisors
• Assist with equipment disassembly, transport preparation, and storage as required
• Restock vehicles, tools, and supplies after project completion

• Utilize hydraulic, electrical, welding, cutting, and hand tools safely and effectively
• Maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas
• Support additional departments and projects as operational needs require
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and training requirements

Required Qualifications

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A)
• Safe driving history and ability to meet company driving requirements
• Experience performing physical labor in construction, industrial, transportation, or related environments
• Ability to successfully complete required qualification, safety, and training programs
• Willingness to remain on-call and respond to emergency service requests, including nights, weekends, and holidays

Preferred Qualifications

• Three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience
• Experience operating excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, or skid steer loaders
• Equivalent combination of training and field experience will be considered

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Pre-Employment drug screen
• Background check

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off