General Yardmaster

About the role

The General Yardmaster supervises assigned rail operations employees, directs train movements, ensures safety, and collaborates with other departments.

Responsibilities

• Supervise assigned rail operations employees, including contractors and switch crews
• Provide guidance and support on assigned duties including spotting and removal of bad cars, placement of repaired or substituted cars
• Oversee the makeup of outlying yards; ensure proper crew coverage for shifts; plan and coordinate work activities
• Maintain open and regular communications with foremen to keep apprised of needs, activity progress, and identification of issues
• Attend daily meetings with foremen to determine if planned activities can be accomplished without departure delays; offer alternative plans when necessary
• Approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies as necessary, and ensure compliance with departmental and company policies and objectives
• Make recommendations regarding hiring, performance evaluations, disciplinary and/or termination procedures
• Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety rules and regulations

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of four (4) years railroad operations experience, preferably working in a rail yard moving trains
• Working knowledge of train operating procedures and labor agreement provisions
• Working knowledge of local, state, and federal rules and regulations pertaining to railroad operations
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
• Familiar with the use of database management systems
• Good written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills to effectively direct the work of crew members
• Good organizational skills needed to use time efficiently and set goals and objectives
• Good critical thinking, judgement skills, and attention to detail needed to observe safety procedures and report potential unsafe conditions
• Ability to problem-solve, identify, and resolve issues in a timely manner
• Ability to work well in a team environment
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, work under pressure, and meet deadlines
• Ability to supervise and coordinate the work of others
• General Code of Operating Rules qualified or able to become qualified within 30 days of the date of hire
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license
• Ability to stand, walk, and/or, for extended periods of time
• Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision
• Ability to lift and move up to 20 pounds
• Must be able to operate a vehicle
• Available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends

Preferences

• Team lead or supervisory experience