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.