CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator

Qualdoc•Richmond, VA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

This full-time, direct-hire, field-based role supports operations involving equipment transportation, heavy machinery, and hands-on labor. It combines limited commercial driving with equipment operation, job-site preparation, and routine maintenance; it is not a long-haul trucking position. Employees must be available to respond to emergency calls at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays. The position guarantees 40 hours per week, with significant overtime. Employees average more than 60 hours per week, and some weeks may reach 70 hours. Time-and-a-half pay applies to hours worked outside Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM. Additional compensation may include per diem, hotel expenses for travel, and layover pay when applicable. Between field assignments, employees may complete safety training, preventive maintenance, and equipment servicing. Starting pay is $26.00 per hour; higher pay may be available depending on experience. Benefits are offered. Pre-employment drug screening and a background check are required.

Requirements

Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and a good driving record.
Experience in construction labor or a similar physically demanding position.
Ability to operate heavy machinery safely and perform hands-on field work.
Ability to complete required qualification tests and safety training.
Availability for 24/7 emergency response, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Pre-employment drug screening and background check.

Nice To Haves

Three or more years operating heavy equipment, including backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, and skid steers.
An equivalent combination of training and practical experience may also be considered.

Responsibilities

Inspect trucks, trailers, and equipment before and after trips in accordance with DOT regulations and company procedures.
Transport equipment and materials to job sites, check loads, and verify permits for oversized or overweight shipments.
Attend daily safety briefings and coordinate work plans with the crew.
Load, unload, move, and position equipment and materials for field assignments.
Assist with equipment recovery, specialty lifting, material transfers, grading, infrastructure work, and construction projects.
Help assemble, inspect, and operate cranes and other machinery when qualified.
Assist with rigging using chains, cables, and winches.
Operate heavy equipment, including cranes, backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, dump trucks, tractors, skid steers, and rail-bound equipment.
Use hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and standard hand tools as required.
Monitor equipment performance, complete basic servicing and minor repairs, and report major mechanical issues to the shop supervisor.
Help dismantle and load equipment after assignments are complete.
Restock vehicles with parts and supplies, sort scrap materials, and keep equipment and work areas clean and organized.
Follow safety procedures and assist with other operational tasks when needed.
Complete safety training, preventive maintenance, and equipment servicing between field assignments when needed.