CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator
Location: Taneytown, MD
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Salary: $57,200.00, with higher pay possible based on experience
Position Overview
Seeking a CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator to support railroad emergency response and equipment operations. This position involves traveling to derailment sites, transporting and operating heavy equipment, assisting with re-railing and track work, and performing equipment maintenance.
The role requires a strong work ethic, mechanical ability, and the flexibility to respond to emergency calls 24/7, including weekends and holidays.
Schedule & Compensation
40 hours guaranteed per week.
Typical workweeks average 60+ hours, with some weeks reaching approximately 70 hours.
Hours outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM are paid at 1.5x overtime.
Per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay may apply.
During periods without emergency calls, employees assist with safety training, preventive maintenance, and shop activities.
Responsibilities
Perform pre- and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment according to DOT requirements.
Safely transport equipment and materials to and from work sites.
Load, unload, stage, and secure equipment and materials.
Operate heavy equipment such as cranes, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, excavators, front-end loaders, rail-bound equipment, tractors, and skid-steer loaders when qualified.
Assist with railroad re-railing, load adjustment/transfer, track maintenance, repair, grading, and construction activities.
Assist with crane assembly, inspection, setup, and operation.
Perform rigging tasks involving chains, cables, and winches.
Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools.
Monitor equipment and vehicles to maintain operational readiness.
Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle service.
Assist with disassembly and loading of cranes and other equipment.
Restock vehicles and equipment with parts, supplies, and components after assignments.
Maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas.
Follow all required safety policies and procedures.
Assist other departments or work groups as needed.
Requirements
Valid Class A CDL with a good driving record.
Experience in construction, heavy equipment operation, or another physically demanding field.
Ability to safely operate and work around heavy machinery.
Ability to perform physical labor as required at railroad and construction sites.
Must successfully complete required qualification, training, and safety programs.
Must be available for 24/7 emergency response, including weekends and holidays.
Willingness to travel as job assignments require.
Preferred Experience
3+ years operating heavy equipment, including backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, or skid-steer loaders.
Equivalent combination of training and hands-on experience will be considered.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Drug screening
Background check
