Camden, AR
Transportation Operators are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services. Working in a service-oriented environment, the transportation operator must work well as a team member to maximize safety and efficiency, while demonstrating strong initiative, and organizational skills.
Roles & Responsibilities
Transportation Operators work in a team environment to provide safe and effective switching services. A Transportation Operator’s job has three basic levels dictated by experience/testing/overall qualifications:
Transportation Operator – Switchman
Transportation Operator – Switchman/Conductor
Transportation Operator - Switchman/Conductor/Engineer
Advancement through the levels is an integral part of the job requirements.
Requirements
- At least 18 years of age.
- Pass a background check, drug/alcohol test and medical clearance.
- Possess and maintain an unrestricted valid driver’s license.
- Pass a vision and hearing test, including the ability to see and read hand signals from near and far; distinguish between colors.
- Basic proficiency speaking and reading English; you will be asked to follow posted bulletins, regulations, rule books, timetables, switch lists, etc.
- Able to count, compare, and accurately & legibly record numbers.
- Able to push, pull, lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently; up to 50 pounds occasionally; and up to 83 pounds infrequently.
- Able to work outdoors - including in inclement conditions; while wearing personal protective equipment (PPE’s) such as safety glasses, safety boots, gloves, and hearing protection where the company requires.
- Employees are expected to be punctual & work a minimum 40-hour week. Current schedule is four, ten-hour days, Tuesday – Friday, subject to change. On occasion, employees are required to perform service on assigned off days.
- If railcar movements are minimal, employees may be assigned maintenance, housekeeping or groundskeeping tasks.
Responsibilities include:
- Ensure safe operation of the locomotive and switching movements.
- Participate in clear and concise job/safety briefings.
- Apply rules, special instructions, and switching instructions while working as a part of a team to safely operate switches and derails, couple and uncouple railcars and air hoses, and apply or release handbrakes to perform necessary railcar switching maneuvers for the customer.
- Provide protection of train, track, and equipment.
- Perform cursory equipment inspections and air brake tests.
- Comply with all applicable operating rules, switching procedures, and regulations, practicing and promoting safe work habits.
- Keep the interior of the locomotive safe, clean, and tidy.
- Complete daily reports, daily logs, and other reports deemed necessary.
- Actively interact with the team, providing safe and dependable service, while promoting a positive company image.
- Participate in training or company initiatives as required.
Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities
- Excellent teamwork skills and strong customer service skills.
- Able to read and write general documentation including safety briefings, policy and procedure manuals, and switching lists.
- Able to safely mount/dismount a railcar, able to lift and twist air hoses, able to secure railcar handbrakes, and operate both derails and switches effectively.
- Basic familiarity with technology and computer systems with a willingness to potentially learn Excel and Outlook.
- Able to obtain necessary conductor and engineer certification.
Education & Experience
·High School graduate or completion of GED.
- Experience in rail transportation is a plus but nor mandated.
- Previous experience in a customer-oriented team environment is beneficial.