Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator

Civil Works Contracting; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Civil Works Contracting in Wilmington, NC is seeking a Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator to safely operate and maintain rail-related machinery used in construction, maintenance, and repair. The role requires strict adherence to safety procedures, routine equipment inspections, and collaboration with crew members to complete scheduled rail projects and emergency repairs.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years of heavy equipment experience, a high school diploma or GED, and a valid CDL preferred, with

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Knowledge of safe heavy equipment operating procedures and railroad safety regulations preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment (excavators, backhoes, cranes, loaders, track machines) per safety standards.
• Transport, position, and align rails, ties, ballast, and related materials.
• Inspect and perform routine checks and preventive maintenance on equipment.
• Work with crew to complete rail projects and emergency repairs.
• Adhere to railroad safety rules and report defects or needed repairs promptly.

Skills

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Outdoor work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Heavy equipment operation (excavators, backhoes, cranes, loaders, track machines)

Job description

Job Overview

We are seeking a diligent, safety-minded Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will safely operate and maintain various types of heavy equipment used in railway construction, maintenance, and repair. The ideal candidate demonstrates a strong commitment to safety procedures and is experienced with heavy machinery in a rail or related industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate a variety of heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes, cranes, loaders, and track machines according to company and industry safety standards.
• Transport, position, and align rails, ties, ballast, and other materials for railway construction and maintenance.
• Inspect and perform routine checks and preventive maintenance on equipment to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
• Work collaboratively with crew members to accomplish scheduled rail projects and emergency repairs.
• Adhere strictly to all railroad safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Document equipment usage, maintenance, and incidents accurately.
• Report defects, safety issues, or needed repairs promptly to supervisors.
• Participate in safety briefings, company meetings, and required training sessions.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license (commercial driver's license preferred).
• Minimum 2 years of experience operating heavy equipment, preferably in a railroad or industrial setting.
• Knowledge of safe heavy equipment operating procedures and railroad safety regulations.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand, walk, and perform manual labor as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Completion of Heavy Equipment Operator certification or a related technical training program.
• OSHA, FRA, or equivalent safety certifications.
• Previous railroad industry experience.
• Experience with welding, basic electrical, or mechanical repair skills.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and mechanical aptitude.
• Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment.
• Self-motivated with a commitment to safety and compliance.
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.