Emergency Rail Response Equipment Operator (CDL-A)

Emergency Rail Response Equipment Operator (CDL-A)

Location: Minneapolis, MN
Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Starting Pay: From $26.00/hour (higher rates available based on experience)

Position Overview

We are seeking dependable CDL-A professionals to join a specialized field operations team supporting railroad recovery, infrastructure maintenance, and heavy equipment projects throughout the region. This role combines commercial driving, equipment operation, and hands-on field work in a fast-paced environment where emergency response readiness is essential.

Team members transport equipment to project sites, assist with railroad recovery efforts, operate machinery when qualified, and support track maintenance and construction activities. Safety, professionalism, and teamwork are critical to success in this position.

### Schedule & Work Environment

Full-time direct hire position

Guaranteed 40 hours per week

Frequent overtime opportunities averaging 60+ hours weekly

Must be available for emergency dispatches on a 24/7 on-call basis

Travel required as needed for project assignments

### Compensation & Travel Benefits

Starting pay of $26.00/hour or more, depending on qualifications and experience

Per diem provided during travel assignments

Company-paid lodging when overnight travel is required

Layover compensation when applicable

### Key Responsibilities

Transportation & Equipment Handling

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections in accordance with DOT regulations and company standards
• Safely transport heavy equipment, machinery, and materials to and from work locations
• Verify load securement and required permits for oversized or overweight equipment
• Assist with loading, unloading, staging, and mobilizing equipment and materials

Field Operations

• Participate in daily safety meetings and work planning discussions
• Support railroad recovery operations, load transfers, and track maintenance projects
• Assist with crane setup, inspections, and operational support
• Connect and manage chains, cables, rigging, and winching systems during lifting and recovery activities
• Operate heavy equipment and specialty machinery when qualified
• Perform site cleanup and demobilization activities upon project completion

Equipment Operation & Maintenance

• Operate machinery such as:
  • Excavators
  • Backhoes
  • Grapple trucks
  • Dump trucks
  • Cranes
  • Skid steers
  • Front-end loaders
  • Additional construction and rail-support equipment
  • Utilize hydraulic, electrical, welding, cutting, and hand tools safely and effectively
  • Monitor equipment performance and report operational concerns
  • Complete minor maintenance and service tasks as assigned
  • Assist with equipment assembly, disassembly, and transport preparation

  General Duties

  • Restock vehicles, tools, and equipment following project completion
  • Maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas
  • Support other operational departments when business needs require
  • Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements

### Required Qualifications

Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A)

Acceptable driving record

Experience performing physical labor in construction, industrial, transportation, or related environments

Ability to pass required training, qualification, and safety programs

Willingness to respond to emergency callouts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

### Preferred Qualifications

Three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience

Experience with equipment such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, or skid steers

Experience working in railroad, construction, industrial, or infrastructure maintenance environments

### Pre-Employment Requirements

Pre-Employment drug screen

Background check

### Benefits

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off