Utility I - DR

About the role

The Utility I position is a cross-functional role within the Transportation, Engineering & Mechanical Departments. This role oversees train, freight, and crew operations, including handling track switches, coupling and uncoupling cars, and performing track maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Move trains safely in the yards and over roads
• Operate track switches, inspect equipment on cars, and use radio communications to control train movement
• Perform inspections, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and installation of locomotive mechanical systems, air equipment, and electrical systems
• Aid and instruct train crews in coupling and uncoupling cars, operating switches, and making minor repairs to railcars
• Communicate with Locomotive Engineers and other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio communication protocol
• Signal crew members 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
• Observe, interpret, and relay arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
• Operate 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 operate locomotives, including full mobility in seated position facing forward and to the side
• Manipulate throttle and brake controls; interpret gauges and controls
• Operate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab including applying and releasing handbrakes
• Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen
• Work independently and/or with train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and service locomotive including brake shoes, oil, sand and fuel
• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA if applicable
• Operate spike pullers, spike drivers to perform construction and maintenance tasks associated with railroad tracks
• Raise rail using track jack to facilitate removal and installation of railroad ties
• Drill holes with power drill through rails for bolt insertion
• Operate track-wrench machine to tighten and/or loosen bolts at rail joints
• Operate rail saw to cut rails into specified lengths
• Drive company vehicles
• Perform CDL work if required by location to meet qualifications of the FMCSA Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Subpart B: Qualification and Disqualification of Drivers and other regulations as applicable, including but not limited to, Part 391.11
• Complete inspection and repair reports according to company and FRA specifications and guidelines
• Follow general safety rules, perform diagnostics, installation and repair of locomotive components to ensure proper operation and compliance with required federal and company specifications
• Complete periodic inspection per FRA standard and frequency
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• 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 levels 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 a fast-paced, collaborative environment