CDL-A Equipment Operator – Railroad Operations

About the role

Responsibilities

• Complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with company policies and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
• Drive tractor-trailers to and from job sites, inspect transported loads and machinery, and verify permits for oversized or overweight loads.
• Participate in daily work planning and safety briefings to coordinate assignments and maintain safe, efficient operations.
• Load, unload, move, and stage equipment and materials for railroad recovery, load transfer, and track construction or repair.
• Assist with the setup, assembly, inspection, disassembly, and operation of cranes and other heavy equipment.
• Support derailment recovery by connecting and handling rigging equipment, including chains, cables, and winches.
• Operate heavy equipment such as cranes, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, excavators, and other machinery when qualified.
• Assist with track maintenance, track repairs, new track construction, grading, specialty lifting, railcar repairs, and load adjustment or transfer activities.
• Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools to complete assigned work.
• Perform basic equipment and vehicle maintenance, including minor mechanical repairs and routine preventive maintenance, and document completed service.
• Monitor equipment condition and readiness, reporting complex mechanical problems to the Shop Manager or Foreman.
• Secure and reload equipment and materials after assignments, clean job sites, restock supplies, and organize tools and scrap materials at the home base.
• Maintain clean, orderly vehicles, equipment, and work areas while following all required safety procedures.
• Assist other departments or field teams when necessary to meet operational needs.

Requirements

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) with a good driving record.
• Experience in construction labor, field operations, or a similar physically demanding role.
• Basic mechanical skills, including oil changes and minor equipment repairs while in the field.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment safely when qualified and assist with physically demanding field assignments.
• Willingness to complete required qualification tests, training, and safety programs.
• Availability for 24/7 emergency response, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work extended hours, respond to last-minute assignments, and travel as required.
• Commitment to workplace safety and compliance with applicable DOT regulations and company procedures.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
• Completion of required training and qualification testing.