Machine Operator 1, TSO

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt | Department: Operations | Reports to: Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent

About the role

Machine Operator 1 (MO1) is a field-based position responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing company railway maintenance and inspection equipment. This role can operate Loram’s on-track MOW equipment and/or on-track vehicles with supervision in both operating and travel modes. Assignments may vary depending on business needs and demands.

Responsibilities

• Lead comprehensive and appropriate job briefings during operations shifts, maintenance shifts, and while conducting maintenance tasks.
• Consistently follow safe work processes, procedures, and rules.
• Understand on-track safety and explain specifics when asked.
• Locate all emergency equipment and demonstrate correct operation.
• Conduct machine inspections to identify problems, defects, changes, and hazards; communicate conditions to the operator or supervisor and perform common repairs as instructed.
• Provide accurate feedback to support maintenance decisions.
• Accurately record and report common parts used to supervisor, including floor stock.
• Perform maintenance and repairs according to set schedules and policies.
• Accurately describe gauge and HMI functions as they relate to machine operation.
• Document and complete daily field reporting, personal expense reporting, field lodging, and other administrative reporting as necessary.

Requirements

• Internal candidates: 3+ months experience working with Loram equipment or equivalent in a 24/7 environment; some assignments require excavator experience.
• External candidates: 2+ years demonstrated technical skills such as mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and machine operations.
• 2+ years demonstrated ability to learn, communicate verbally and in writing, and adopt best practices.
• Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, and a valid Driver’s License.
• 1+ year experience as a heavy equipment operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or similar).
• Experience with heavy maintenance/construction equipment maintenance.
• Basic administration computer skills and working knowledge of data systems and remote equipment operations (cellular or tethered).
• Aurora-specific: Minimum 1 year computer or technology background, 1 year working knowledge of MS Windows. Preferred radiation experience.
• Commercial Driver’s License or ability to obtain a Class B.

Pre-employment requirements

• Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination and role-specific assessments (may include DOT Physical Exam, Regulated (DOT) DS/BAT, Human Performance Evaluation (HPE), and Audiogram).
• Successful completion of an eVerifile/eRailSafe background check as required by Loram’s railroad customers; ongoing eligibility subject to compliance with eRailSafe standards.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license; Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check conducted upon hire and annually thereafter.
• Pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.

Working conditions

• 100% travel, including international, using any method of transportation.
• Ability to apply high levels of cognitive, analytical, retention, and reasoning skills.
• Excellent communication skills in any social context.
• Physical demands: stand, sit, walk, reach, balance, stoop, kneel, hear, taste, smell, see up close and at distances, distinguish colors, use peripheral vision, and perceive depth.
• Tolerate variable and sometimes extreme physical conditions during visits or inspections of company equipment in a railroad environment.

Benefits

• Company-sponsored medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
• Wellness programs.
• Basic life and AD&D insurance; voluntary life insurance.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with an employer match of 150% up to the first 6% contributed.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and behavioral health support.
• Leaves of absence.
• Tuition reimbursement and payroll charity contributions.
• Adoption assistance.
• Optional plans: legal, critical illness, and hospitalization.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $41,600–$56,300 annually, with a starting pay between $20.00–$21.00 per hour. Certain positions may be eligible for an annual bonus and paid time off in addition to base compensation.