CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Railroad Recovery

CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Rail Response Location: Kansas City, MO Job Type: Direct Hire | Full-Time Pay: Starting at $26.00/hour; higher depending on experience Schedule: 24/7 On-Call | 40 hours guaranteed Benefits: Full benefits, per diem, hotel pay for travel, and layover pay when applicable Position Overview We are hiring Class A CDL drivers to join a specialized rail response team supporting train derailment recovery and railroad maintenance. This is more than a driving position. Driving makes up approximately 10% of the job. Team members operate heavy equipment, assist with rerailing and track work, handle materials, perform equipment maintenance, and provide hands-on support at emergency job sites. The role requires someone who is comfortable with an unpredictable 24/7 on-call schedule, physical work, and responding quickly when emergency service is needed. Responsibilities Drive tractor-trailers to transport equipment and materials to and from job sites; complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections in accordance with company policies and DOT regulations. Inspect loads, verify transportation permits, and confirm requirements for oversized and overweight equipment. Operate heavy equipment such as cranes, backhoes, excavators, bulldozers, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, dump trucks, skid steers, and rail-bound equipment, as qualified. Assist with railroad rerailing, load adjustment and transfer, railroad car maintenance, track repairs, grading, and railroad construction. Load, unload, stage, and secure equipment and materials at job sites. Assist with crane assembly, inspections, rigging, and the use of chains, cables, and winches during recovery operations. Use hydraulic tools, welding and cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools to complete field assignments. Perform basic mechanical maintenance, including minor roadside repairs and routine preventive maintenance; report more complex issues to the shop manager or foreman. Participate in job briefings and safety meetings, follow work plans, and maintain awareness of coworkers and surrounding equipment. Clean job sites, organize tools, restock vehicles and equipment, and prepare supplies for future assignments. Support other departments as needed and maintain safe, clean, and operational equipment. Required Qualifications Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) and a good driving record. Basic mechanical skills, including the ability to perform minor repairs such as an oil change. Experience in construction labor or another physically demanding role. Ability to operate standard construction equipment and perform hands-on fieldwork. Availability for emergency callouts at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Ability to complete required qualification tests, training, and safety programs. Commitment to safe work practices in a demanding industrial environment. Preferred Qualifications Three or more years of experience operating heavy equipment, including backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, or skid-steer loaders. Experience driving equipment with a manual transmission. Previous experience in railroad operations, construction, equipment maintenance, or emergency field response. Compensation and Benefits 40 hours of work guaranteed each week, with substantial overtime opportunities. Hours worked outside the regular Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM schedule are paid at the applicable overtime rate of time-and-a-half. Per diem, hotel accommodations or hotel pay for qualifying travel, and layover pay when applicable. Benefits package available through direct hire. Employment Requirements Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check. Steel-toed boots are required for the interview. Must be able to work in an emergency-response environment where assignments and schedules can change with little notice.