CDL-A Emergency Response Equipment Operator

CDL-A Emergency Response Equipment Operator

Location: Richmond, VA
Job Type: Direct Hire
Starting Salary: From $57,200 per year (higher starting pay available based on experience)

Position Overview

Join a specialized emergency response team that provides rapid railroad recovery services throughout the region. This position combines Class A CDL driving, heavy equipment operation, and hands-on field work to restore rail operations following derailments and other incidents.

Although a CDL is required, driving makes up only a small portion of the job. Most of your time will be spent operating heavy equipment, assisting with rerailing operations, maintaining equipment, and supporting emergency response efforts. When emergency calls are not active, you'll assist with preventive maintenance, safety training, equipment preparation, and shop activities.

This is a full-time opportunity with excellent overtime potential and comprehensive benefits.

• Guaranteed 40-hour workweek
• Average workweek exceeds 60 hours with overtime opportunities
• Must be available for emergency call-outs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays

• Starting salary from $57,200 annually (higher starting pay based on experience)
• Overtime paid at time and one-half for hours worked outside the standard Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:00 PM schedule
• Per diem for qualifying travel
• Hotel accommodations during overnight assignments
• Layover pay when applicable
• Full benefits package

• Inspect trucks, trailers, and equipment before and after each trip to ensure safe operation and DOT compliance.
• Transport specialized equipment and materials to emergency response locations using a Class A CDL tractor-trailer.
• Verify permits and inspect oversized or overweight loads before transport.
• Participate in daily safety meetings and work planning discussions.
• Load, unload, stage, and secure equipment needed for derailment recovery and railroad operations.
• Assist with rerailing railcars using cranes, rigging equipment, chains, cables, and winches.
• Operate heavy equipment while following established safety procedures and operating guidelines.
• Perform work related to railcar recovery, specialty lifting, load transfers, grading, and railroad support projects.
• Operate equipment including:
  • Cranes
  • Excavators
  • Backhoes
  • Grapple trucks
  • Dump trucks
  • Bulldozers
  • Front-end loaders
  • Rail-bound equipment
  • Tractors
  • Skid-steer loaders
• Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools to complete assigned work.
• Monitor equipment performance and report maintenance issues.
• Complete minor preventive maintenance and basic service on equipment while referring major repairs to maintenance personnel.
• Assist with assembling and dismantling cranes and specialized equipment.
• Restock vehicles, tools, parts, and supplies after each assignment to maintain emergency readiness.
• Keep equipment, vehicles, and work areas clean, organized, and ready for deployment.
• Support additional operational tasks as needed to meet business requirements.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) with a good driving record.
• Experience performing physically demanding construction, industrial, or similar labor.
• Ability to pass required qualification testing and safety training.
• Willingness to remain on-call for emergency response at all times, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding work.

Applicants with three or more years of experience operating heavy equipment are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience with any of the following is beneficial:

• Backhoe
• Bulldozer
• Excavator
• Front-end loader
• Grapple truck
• Rail-bound equipment
• Tractor
• Skid-steer loader

Equivalent combinations of training and practical experience will also be considered.

• Successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening
• Pass a background check