CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator

CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator

Location: Taneytown, MD
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Pay: $26.00/hour; higher pay available depending on experience

About the Position

We are seeking a dependable CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator to transport equipment and materials, operate heavy machinery, and assist with specialized field operations at various job sites.

This is a hands-on position that combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, construction labor, and equipment maintenance. Driving makes up only a small portion of the role, so candidates must be comfortable performing physical work and operating different types of construction equipment.

This position includes emergency response duties and requires 24/7 on-call availability, including weekends and holidays.

Schedule and Compensation

• 40 hours guaranteed per week.

• Significant overtime, with average workweeks of 60+ hours and occasional weeks reaching 70 hours.

• On-call availability 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

• Time-and-a-half overtime pay for hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Additional compensation includes per diem, hotel accommodations for travel, and layover pay when applicable.

• Full-time position with benefits.

Key Responsibilities

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

• Drive tractor-trailers to and from job sites and inspect transported loads and equipment.

• Verify transportation permits and ensure overweight and oversized load specifications are accurate.

• Load, unload, move, and stage materials and equipment for field operations.

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

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

• Perform physical fieldwork involving equipment handling, lifting, grading, and site preparation.

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

• Perform minor equipment maintenance and document service activities. Report more complex mechanical issues to the appropriate supervisor.

• Assist with equipment disassembly, loading, and transportation after job assignments.

• Restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts and supplies.

• Maintain clean, organized, and safe vehicles, equipment, and work areas.

• Participate in daily safety briefings and follow all required safety procedures.

• Assist other departments as needed to support business operations.

Qualifications

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

• Previous experience in construction, equipment operation, or a physically demanding labor position.

• Ability to operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently.

• Comfortable performing hands-on labor and working in changing outdoor conditions.

• Ability to work extended hours, travel when needed, and remain available for emergency callouts 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

• Must successfully complete required qualification tests and safety training.

• Strong awareness of workplace safety and the ability to work effectively as part of a field team.

Preferred Experience

• 3+ years of experience operating heavy equipment, including:

  • Backhoes

  • Bulldozers

  • Excavators

  • Front-end loaders

  • Grapple trucks

  • Rail-bound equipment

  • Tractors

  • Skid-steer loaders

  • Equivalent combinations of relevant training and hands-on experience may also be considered.

  • Experience with rigging, cranes, hydraulic tools, welding, or torch cutting is a plus.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Background check

• Pre-employment drug screening

Interview Requirement: Candidates must bring steel-toed boots to the interview.