The posting
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



