Chief Operator Ultrasonic Testing
Some see the railway as transportation, while at Plasser American we see it as transformation. The story of how steel tracks turned the American promise into American progress and forged a trusted pathway to the possibilities of the future. It’s a story that continues today, an American legacy unfolding mile by mile. There is a lot riding on those tracks and we know that support, quality and know-how are all important aspects in staying on track. That’s why the Plasser American tradition begins with a promise. A promise to do things right. An unapologetic commitment to quality that makes us the longtime trusted leader in cutting edge American made innovations for the North American railway. It’s a promise to see things differently to turn ordinary steel into safer passages. To be a partner that you can count on to engineer solutions for the challenges of today and for the opportunities of tomorrow.
About the role
Plasser American is seeking a Chief Operator with demonstrated Ultrasonic Rail Testing experience to conduct railroad track inspection operations involving the use of measurement tools and systems, electronics troubleshooting, and computer operation. Position involves interpretation of railroad-published documents to derive train speed information; review and analysis of track ultrasonic data for reporting; and operating hi-rail commercial motor vehicles. This position includes some vehicle maintenance for hi-rail vehicles. The incumbent will also complete regular housekeeping duties for safety and sanitation purposes aboard Ultrasonic test vehicles. This position requires the incumbent to routinely be dispatched to inspection vehicles throughout the U.S. and maintain a professional appearance and demeanor as a representative of Plasser American.
The Chief Operator’s responsibility is for the overall execution of service operations in Rail Flaw Detection provided to the customers. Provide the highest quality performance to exceed the competition’s service in every possible way, ensuring customer requirements are met as stated on the contracts or agreements and build customer relationships based on respect, transparency, and confidence. The Chief Operator represents the company image as much as any other team member.
The Chief Operator is also responsible for the safety of their Operator at all times, guiding proper attitude, behavior, and communication skills to create an environment of trust and respect.
Responsibilities
- Reports directly to the Field Manager. In their absence, reports directly to another Field Manager or the Manager of UT RFD Services as a last resort.
- Maintains a professional attitude toward colleagues, customers, and the general public, reflecting a positive image for the company.
- Ensures all railroad and highway safety as well as operating procedures are maintained and applied to the best of their capacity.
- Drives safety and quality as the number one priority; accountable and professional in all actions.
- Open to changes in the workplace and applies directives according to set standards.
- Performs high-quality tests for all customers and consistently improves operations where indicated by subordinates.
- Adheres to and executes instructions in reference books and customer playbooks.
- Partners with Operators to maintain a high standard of maintenance, including cleanliness and 5S on trucks and high-precision calibration of equipment at all times.
- Produces all necessary paperwork, including but not limited to daily reports, maintenance reports, and trip reports.
- Overall responsible for the vehicle and its maintenance.
- Displays expertise in Rail Flaw Detection testing.
- Improves fleet uptime to meet goals set by upper management.
- Ensures logbooks, DOT papers including timesheets are maintained.
- Ensures compliance with all DOT regulations, including hours of service regulation.
- Coaches, trains, protects, and assists new employees, Training Chief Operators, and Operators in the established work environment.
- Completes weekly expense reports, timesheets, inventory, and general truck condition (repairs needed, current, and preventive).
- Responsible for the lodging location chosen and ensures the truck is parked at the same location.
Requirements
- At least 5 years of service in the RFD Industry, service management, or related leadership experience.
- 3 to 5 years’ experience on Class I railroads.
- Knowledge of Rail Flaw Detection testing practices.
- Excellent safety record within all Class railroads, Class I without exception.
- Knowledge of computer programs, RFD truck functionality, electrical, and mechanical is a plus.
- Valid driver’s license; Class A or B preferred.
- Respected by peers.
Qualifications
- ASNT-1A Ultrasonic Levels I and II training successfully completed and valid.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a high level of attention to detail.
- Minimum of a High School diploma or GED. Mechanical, electrical, troubleshooting knowledge preferred.
Skills
- Microsoft Office skills, including Excel, Word, Microsoft Teams, Concur, and more.
- Ability to manage cost and adjust where necessary.
Physical Requirements
- Lift and carry 50 lbs. a distance of at least 150 feet.
- Work in close quarters, under and about inspection vehicles.
- Work in inclement weather.
- Passing a federal pre-employment drug test is required prior to performing duties in this position.
- Undergoing and passing random drug and alcohol testing is a condition while performing duties in this position.
- Must pass an e-RAILSAFE security background check, including financial status and online safety exams, to work on railroad properties (a requirement of this position).
- Wearing safety equipment (hard hat, steel-toe boots, protective vest, and protective eyeglasses) when working on railroad properties is required. Plasser American will provide all necessary safety equipment.
Benefits
- Accrue 80 Hours of Paid Time Off during your first year of employment.
- 10 Paid Holidays per year.
- 401(k) match of $0.50 for every $1.00 you contribute up to 6% of your salary.
- Merit bonus after completion of the audit at the end of the fiscal year.
- Tuition Reimbursement.
- Free Short and Long Term Disability after 90 days of employment.
- Free Life Insurance – 2 times your annual salary.
- Company Events.
- Free employee medical and dental coverage – valued at $7,500.00.
Pay
$30 - $38 hourly wage.
Schedule
- Willingness to travel 75% (Required).
- Regular Full-time employment status.