About this role
CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Richmond, VA
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Starting Pay: $26/hour; higher pay may be available depending on experience
Position Summary
We’re hiring a CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator to support specialized field operations in the Richmond, VA area. This hands-on role combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, and physical labor at job sites. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and comfortable responding to emergency assignments.
Schedule & Compensation
40 hours guaranteed per week
Significant overtime, with average workweeks of 60+ hours
On-call availability 24/7, including weekends and holidays
Hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m., paid at time-and-a-half
Additional compensation may include per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable
Responsibilities
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Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with company policies and DOT requirements.
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Drive tractor-trailers to and from job sites and verify loads, equipment, and permits for oversized or overweight transportation.
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Load, unload, move, and stage equipment and materials at job sites.
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Operate heavy equipment, such as excavators, backhoes, cranes, grapple trucks, and dump trucks, when qualified.
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Assist with equipment setup, rigging, and the use of chains, cables, and winches.
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Use hydraulic tools, welding and cutting equipment, electrical tools, and common hand tools as needed.
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Complete minor equipment maintenance and document service activities; report complex repairs to the appropriate supervisor.
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Participate in safety briefings, follow established safety procedures, and maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas.
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Help prepare, secure, and restock equipment and materials after each assignment.
Requirements
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Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) with a good driving record.
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Experience in construction, equipment operation, or another physically demanding role.
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Ability to operate heavy equipment safely or complete required training and qualification.
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Mechanical aptitude and willingness to assist with basic equipment maintenance.
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Ability to work outdoors, perform physical labor, and travel to job sites as needed.
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Availability for 24/7 emergency callouts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
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Ability to pass required qualification tests and safety training.
Preferred Qualifications
Three or more years of experience operating heavy equipment, such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, tractors, or skid-steers.
Experience with tractor-trailers, equipment transport, rigging, or construction-related work.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Background check
Pre-employment drug screen
Why Consider This Role? Join a specialized field operations team where CDL-A driving and heavy equipment skills support time-sensitive railroad recovery work. This direct-hire opportunity offers guaranteed weekly hours, overtime opportunities, travel-related compensation when applicable, and a full benefits package.