Heavy Equipment Field Operator (CDL-A)
Location: Taneytown, MD
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Salary: From $57,200 per year
Position Overview
We are seeking a Heavy Equipment Field Operator with a valid Class A CDL to support specialized field operations, emergency response activities, equipment transportation, and infrastructure projects throughout the region.
This is a hands-on position for an individual who enjoys operating heavy machinery, working outdoors, and supporting time-sensitive field assignments. This role is not an over-the-road driving position. In addition to hauling equipment, you will operate machinery, assist with field projects, and help keep equipment prepared for deployment.
When emergency work is not active, this position supports equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, safety activities, and facility operations.
Schedule Requirements
Guaranteed 40 hours per week
Average workweek of 60+ hours, including overtime
Must be available for emergency call-outs 24/7, including weekends and holidays
Pay & Benefits
Starting salary from $57,200 annually
Overtime paid at 1.5x the regular rate for hours worked outside the standard Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:00 PM schedule
Per diem available for eligible travel
Hotel accommodations provided for overnight assignments
Layover pay when applicable
Comprehensive benefits package
Responsibilities
Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections on trucks, trailers, and equipment according to DOT requirements and safety standards.
Transport heavy equipment, machinery, and materials to job sites using a Class A CDL tractor-trailer.
Verify equipment condition, permits, and requirements for oversized and overweight loads.
Participate in daily planning meetings and required safety briefings.
Load, unload, organize, and stage equipment and materials for railroad maintenance, grading, repairs, new track construction, load transfers, and recovery operations.
Assist with recovery operations by helping assemble and operate cranes and specialty lifting equipment.
Safely connect chains, cables, winches, and rigging equipment following established procedures.
Operate a variety of heavy equipment, including:
- Cranes
- Backhoes
- Excavators
- 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 standard hand tools.
- Monitor equipment performance and identify maintenance concerns.
- Complete minor equipment servicing and document completed maintenance.
- Assist with dismantling, loading, and securing cranes and specialty equipment after assignments.
- Restock tools, supplies, and replacement parts to maintain emergency readiness.
- Maintain clean vehicles, equipment, and organized work areas.
- Perform additional operational duties as assigned.
- Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
Qualifications
Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) with a satisfactory driving record.
Experience performing physically demanding work in construction, industrial, railroad, or similar environments.
Ability to complete required qualification testing and safety training.
Must be available for emergency response assignments at any time, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Ability to work outdoors in changing weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
Preferred Experience
Candidates with 3 or more years of heavy equipment operation experience are preferred.
Experience operating the following equipment is highly valued:
- Backhoe
- Bulldozer
- Excavator
- Front-end loader
- Grapple truck
- Rail-bound equipment
- Tractor
- Skid-steer loader
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and hands-on experience will be considered.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening
Successful completion of a background check
About the Opportunity
This position is a great fit for individuals who enjoy operating heavy equipment, solving problems in the field, and working as part of a team on challenging assignments. The role offers competitive starting pay, overtime opportunities, travel benefits, and the opportunity to build a long-term career supporting critical infrastructure operations.
