CDL-A Equipment Operator/Laborer – Rerail

Qualdoc; West Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Per diem available

Hotel accommodations/pay for travel

Layover pay when applicable

24/7 on-call availability

Job summary

Qualdoc is seeking a CDL-A Equipment Operator/Laborer to support rerail operations in West Chicago, IL. This hands-on role involves operating trucks and heavy equipment, performing inspections, and assisting with derailment response and track maintenance.

The ideal candidate is safety-focused, mechanically inclined, physically capable, and prepared for 24/7 on-call shifts, with overtime and travel as needed. Starting pay is $26.00/hour with higher pay based on experience.

Qualifications

• Valid Class A CDL with a good driving record.
• Experience in construction labor or a physically demanding role.
• Ability to pass required qualification tests, training, and safety programs.
• Willingness for 24/7 availability for emergency response.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment per DOT safety rules.
• Safely operate tractors and heavy equipment to job sites and inspect loads/equipment.
• Assist with rerailing operations, load transfers, and track maintenance tasks.
• Assist with rigging, chains, cables, and winches during derailment responses.
• Operate equipment (cranes, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, excavators, loaders, rail-bound equipment) when qualified.
• Maintain equipment readiness and report mechanical issues for repair.

Skills

CDL-A driving

Safety minded

Mechanical aptitude

Emergency response readiness

Tools

Cranes

Backhoes

Grapple trucks

Excavators

Front-end loader

Job description

CDL-A Equipment Operator/Laborer – Rerail

Location: West Chicago, IL
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Pay: $26.00/hour (Higher pay available depending on experience)
Benefits: Full-time position with benefits

Position Overview

We are seeking a Class A CDL driver for a hands-on role supporting train derailment response and railroad-related operations. This position involves transporting and operating equipment, assisting with rerailing operations, track maintenance, load transfers, and other field activities.

The ideal candidate is safety-focused, mechanically inclined, physically capable, and comfortable working in an emergency-response environment.

Schedule & Compensation

• 40 hours guaranteed per week
• Significant overtime; regular and overtime hours average 60+ hours per week
• 24/7 on-call availability for emergency response, including weekends and holidays
• Hours outside of Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM are paid at time-and-a-half
• Per diem available
• Hotel accommodations/pay for required travel
• Layover pay when applicable

Job Duties

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with DOT regulations and safety requirements.
• Safely operate tractor-trailers to and from job sites and inspect loads and equipment being transported.
• Verify transportation permits and ensure overweight/oversize load specifications are accurate.
• Participate in daily work planning and safety briefings.
• Load, unload, move, and stage materials and equipment for rerailing, load transfer, and track maintenance, repair, or construction activities.
• Assist with the assembly, inspection, and operation of cranes and other heavy equipment.
• Assist with rigging and connecting chains, cables, and winches during derailment response.
• Operate equipment such as cranes, backhoes, grapple trucks, dump trucks, excavators, front-end loaders, rail-bound equipment, tractors, and skid-steer loaders, when qualified.
• Perform tasks related to specialty lifting, rerailing, load transfers, grading, track maintenance/repair, and railroad construction.
• Use hydraulic tools, welding and cutting torches, electrical tools, and common hand tools.
• Continuously monitor vehicles and equipment to maintain operational readiness and minimize downtime.
• Perform and document minor equipment and vehicle maintenance; report more complex mechanical issues for repair.
• Assist with disassembly and loading of cranes and other equipment at the completion of assignments.
• Restock vehicles and equipment with necessary parts, components, and supplies.
• Sort and properly dispose of scrap materials.
• Maintain clean, organized vehicles, equipment, and work areas.
• Follow all required safety policies and procedures.
• Perform additional tasks as needed to support business operations and customer needs.

Requirements

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) with a good driving record.
• Experience in construction labor or a similar physically demanding labor role.
• Ability to pass required qualification tests, training, and safety programs.
• 24/7 availability to respond to emergency service calls, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to safely work around heavy equipment, vehicles, tools, and railroad-related operations.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• 3+ years of heavy equipment operating experience, including experience with one or more of the following:
  • Backhoe
  • Bulldozer
  • Excavator
  • Front-end loader
  • Grapple truck
  • Rail-bound equipment
  • Tractor
  • Skid-steer loader
• Equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Pre-employment drug screen
• Background check