CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator – Field Operations

Qualdoc • Richmond, VA

5d

About The Position

Qualdoc is seeking a CDL-A Heavy Equipment Operator to support field construction, equipment handling, maintenance, site preparation, grading, and infrastructure projects throughout the region. This hands-on role combines commercial driving, heavy equipment operation, and physically demanding outdoor fieldwork. The operator transports equipment and materials, assists with job-site work and equipment handling, and performs general field labor and basic maintenance.

The position guarantees 40 hours per week, with an average of 60 or more hours and some weeks reaching 70 hours. Employees must be available on call 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and must be able to work extended hours and travel as needed. Overtime is paid at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours worked outside Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM. Starting pay is $26.00 per hour, with higher pay potentially available depending on experience. Qualifying assignments may include per diem, hotel accommodations, and layover pay.

Work is frequently outdoors in varying weather and involves continuous physical labor, including standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying materials, sometimes on uneven surfaces and around heavy machinery. The role requires a valid CDL-A, a good driving record, heavy equipment operating ability, basic mechanical knowledge, and successful completion of required safety training and qualification programs. Pre-employment screening includes a drug screening and background check. Candidates must bring steel-toed boots to the interview.

Requirements

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A) and a good driving record.
• Experience in construction, industrial labor, or another physically demanding field.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment and perform hands-on fieldwork.
• Basic mechanical knowledge and ability to perform minor equipment maintenance.
• Ability to work outdoors and perform continuous physical labor.
• Strong workplace safety awareness and ability to work effectively with a team.
• Availability for on-call assignments, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work extended hours and travel as needed.
• Successful completion of required safety training and qualification programs.

Nice To Haves

• Three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience.
• Experience with backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, rail-bound equipment, tractors, and skid-steer loaders.
• Experience operating manual transmission equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience using hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and hand tools.
• Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy construction equipment for field maintenance, site preparation, grading, and infrastructure projects.
• Complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and machinery in accordance with DOT regulations.
• Drive tractor-trailers to transport equipment, materials, and supplies to assigned job sites.
• Inspect transported loads and verify permits for oversized and overweight equipment.
• Assist with unloading, staging, positioning, and securing equipment and materials.
• Participate in daily safety meetings and coordinate work with supervisors and crew members.
• Operate equipment such as excavators, backhoes, cranes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, bulldozers, front-end loaders, and skid-steer loaders, as qualified.
• Assist with equipment assembly, inspections, and safe operation.
• Use chains, cables, winches, and rigging equipment for lifting and material handling.
• Perform construction-related work, including grading, site preparation, maintenance, and repairs.
• Work with hydraulic tools, welding equipment, cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools.
• Monitor equipment condition and perform basic maintenance and minor repairs, including routine service tasks.
• Document equipment maintenance and report major mechanical issues to the Shop Manager or Foreman.
• Assist with loading and securing machinery for transportation after assignments.
• Clean job sites, organize tools, and restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts and supplies.
• Sort and dispose of scrap materials in designated areas.
• Assist other teams and departments as needed to support operational requirements.
• Maintain safe, clean, and organized work areas and follow company safety procedures.

Benefits

• Per diem for qualifying assignments.
• Hotel accommodations and layover pay for eligible travel assignments.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Disability, life, and AD&D insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Training and career advancement opportunities.
• Overtime paid at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours worked outside Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed