CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Richmond, VA

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

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with company policies and DOT requirements.

• Drive tractor-trailers to and from job sites and verify loads, equipment, and permits for oversized or overweight transportation.

• Load, unload, move, and stage equipment and materials at job sites.

• Operate heavy equipment, such as excavators, backhoes, cranes, grapple trucks, and dump trucks, when qualified.

• Assist with equipment setup, rigging, and the use of chains, cables, and winches.

• Use hydraulic tools, welding and cutting equipment, electrical tools, and common hand tools as needed.

• Complete minor equipment maintenance and document service activities; report complex repairs to the appropriate supervisor.

• Participate in safety briefings, follow established safety procedures, and maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas.

• Help prepare, secure, and restock equipment and materials after each assignment.

Requirements

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) with a good driving record.

• Experience in construction, equipment operation, or another physically demanding role.

• Ability to operate heavy equipment safely or complete required training and qualification.

• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to assist with basic equipment maintenance.

• Ability to work outdoors, perform physical labor, and travel to job sites as needed.

• Availability for 24/7 emergency callouts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• 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.