Apprentice Operator I
About The Position
Hulcher Services is hiring a full-time CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I to support railroad derailment response and recovery operations. The apprentice trains alongside experienced operators to transport specialized equipment and learn how to recover derailed railcars and locomotives using cranes, hydraulic equipment, and other machinery. The role involves regional travel, physically demanding work, and participation in a 24/7 emergency response operation. The position offers paid training, hourly pay of $26.84–$28.52, overtime opportunities, weekly pay, company-paid benefits, and career advancement opportunities. Hulcher Services is a nationwide provider of railroad derailment response, engineering, track maintenance, environmental services, and disaster recovery. The company has more than 500 employees and operates from over 25 divisions throughout the United States and Mexico.
Requirements
- Valid Class A CDL with no restrictions.
- Valid driver's license.
- Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.
- Willingness and ability to work in a 24/7 emergency response environment and be on call for derailments requiring immediate response.
- Ability to pass required background screenings and pre-employment requirements.
- Ability to lift up to 100 pounds occasionally and 50 pounds frequently.
- Comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Comfort working at heights exceeding 25 feet and around water when required.
- Ability to conduct equipment maintenance inspections.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in heavy equipment operation, construction, truck driving, rigging, railroad work, crane operations, welding, diesel mechanics, oil and gas, utilities, military, or agriculture.
Responsibilities
- Transport specialized heavy equipment using tractor-trailers and escort vehicles.
- Assist with railroad derailment recovery operations.
- Learn to operate heavy recovery equipment under the guidance of experienced operators.
- Handle heavy steel chains, wire rope, rigging equipment, lifting blocks, and recovery tools.
- Climb on and beneath railcars and locomotives during recovery operations.
- Perform equipment setup, maintenance, cleaning, and inspections.
- Use hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, and welding equipment.
- Perform physical work including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup.
- Work safely around heavy equipment, active railroads, bridges, waterways, and industrial environments.
- Follow company safety procedures and operational standards.
- Support emergency railroad operations throughout the assigned region.
Benefits
- Company-paid benefits
- Paid training
- Overtime opportunities
- Weekly pay
- Career advancement opportunities
- Full-time, year-round employment
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
