Switchman

Essential Responsibilities

• Moves trains safely in the yards and over roads
• Operates track switches, inspects equipment on cars and uses radio communications to control train movement
• Performs inspections, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance and installation of locomotive mechanical systems, air equipment and electrical systems, and equipment such as: diesel engine, motors, generators, wheels, air brakes, wiring and lighting systems, and other mechanical and electrical components
• Affixes and removes spikes, drives new spikes, and performs related maintenance to railroad track that meet department and company goals, and comply with Federal Railroad Association (FRA) rules and regulations
• Communicates with Locomotive Engineer and other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio communication protocol
• Signals crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back-up or set and release air brakes
• Observes, interprets, and relays arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
• Operates track switches (visually checks switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties
• Safely and efficiently operates locomotive including full mobility in seated position facing forward and to the side
• Maintains full mobility in seated position facing forward and to the side
• Manipulates throttle and brake controls; interprets gauges and controls
• Operates valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab including applying and releasing handbrakes
• Works independently and/or with train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and service locomotive including brake shoes, oil, sand and fuel
• Ensures compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation and the FRA if applicable
• Operates spike pullers, spike drivers to perform construction and maintenance tasks associated with railroad tracks
• Raises rail using track jack to facilitate removal and installation of railroad ties
• Drills holes with power drill through rails for bolt insertion
• Operates track-wrench machine to tighten and/or loosen bolts at rail joints
• Operates rail saw to cut rails into specified lengths
• Drives company vehicles
• Completes inspection and repair reports according to company and FRA specifications and guidelines
• Completes periodic inspection per FRA standard and frequency

Required Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• 18 years of age or older
• Operate hand tools, including: wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes etc.
• Operate power tools and hydraulic equipment, including: portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills, track jack
• Apply commonsense understanding to carry out detailed, but uninvolved written or verbal instructions
• Read and follow safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals, gauges and dials on precision measuring tools
• Perform basic shop math concepts to calculate figures and amounts such as: area, circumference, length, distance, and volume
• Write legibly to complete routine reports, and complete required testing
• Familiar with and adhere to track Safety Standards in work completion
• Pass written examinations on the safe operations of trains and maintenance of way standards
• Familiar with Roadway Workers’ Protection (RWP) Effectively communicate with all level of employees and business associates in a clear, concise and professional manner
• Basic Computer skills
• Demonstrate problem solving and troubleshooting skills resulting in effective resolution
• Professional integrity and accountability
• Work in fast-paced, collaborative environment