Rail / Switch Operator

Equipment Inspection

Inspects rail cars for proper loading requirements (cleanliness) and discernible car integrity before loading and unloading processes begin.

Moving Rail Cars

• Works in conjunction with the shuttlewagon operator in the inspection and readiness of coupling devices for proper alignment during coupling and decoupling process.
  • Prior to moving the car(s) removes chocks, connects air brake hoses, disengages hand brakes, and inspects track for obstacles and proper switch placement.
  • Follows all safety procedures and keeps the Shuttle wagon operator informed of potential safety hazards that may occur while spotting during rail car pushes.
  • Communicates the aforementioned and coupling and decoupling progress via radio to track mobile operator.

Placement of Rail Cars

• Knows clearance points, proper communication for “counting down” to a couple, and proper setting of hand brakes on cars prior to the uncoupling process.

Other Functions

• Serves as the back-up for the Shuttle wagon Operator as required to cover vacation, absences and other relief issues.
• Provides clean up on tracks.
• Responds to problems or production needs under the silos and communicates resolutions via radio to the weigh master.

Deliverables Preparation and Inspection

• Delivers rail cars as measured by inspection by either Supervisor, Weigh Master, or Brine Loader.
• Cars are cleaned not to exceed 30 minute maximum.
• Void of contamination per pre-loading routine inspection.
• Free of defects as per pre-loading inspection and rail car functionality.
• No Violations of rail car safety as per routine inspection.
• No equipment damage to rail cars, shuttle wagon, and/or derails from debris or improperly set derailers.
• No unsecured movements of rail cars.
• No injuries.
• No error in required track inquires as measured by Customer Service feedback, QSI, or Supervisor review.
• Car count correct.
• Car numbers correspond with actual car string.
• No additional charges from railroad due to inaccurate placement of railcar.
• Inquiries completed and turned in no later than 0700.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience: Must have a high school diploma and previous experience or education demonstrating the ability to monitor equipment for proper operation and perform tasks related to maintaining product quality. Previous experience operating heavy equipment or working with rail equipment is a plus.
• Computer Skills: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be PC literate and proficient with Excel, Word, Outlook, and Access to analyze and communicate information. Must be able to navigate an ERP to issue work requests and review inventory.

Competencies

• Interpersonal Skills - Ability to interact effectively with others and work effectively as a member of a team.
• Written Communication - Concise, complete, and well organized written communications are essential.
• Planning/Organizing - Must be able to plan and organize a schedule that is conducive to position duties. Must have the ability to independently and effectively plan, organize, coordinate, and follow up on assignments. Must be able to remain on task in a disruptive setting. Must be able to organize in conjunction with multiple directions from Weigh Master or Plant Operator.
• Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration, regardless of their status or position; Follows through on commitments.
• Quality – Able to follow communicated/trained quality procedures. Able to recognize and resolve issues affecting product quality. Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.

Essential Job Functions

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear. The employee is also required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Compass Minerals is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are firmly committed to making all employment-related decisions without regard to race, ancestry, ethnicity, color, religious creed or belief, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, and pregnancy and breastfeeding), age, military or veteran status, status as a qualified individual with a disability, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by law. To request reasonable accommodations, email careers@compassminerals.com or call 913-344-9200. Learn more about equal employment opportunity laws at dol.gov.