Welder

Major Responsibilities

• Maintain equipment in a condition that does not compromise safety.
• Read blueprints and drawings and take or read measurements to plan layout and procedures.
• Replace rail anchors, drive spikes, and tamp ballast as needed.
• Set up and operate hand and power tools, including shielded metal arc and gas metal arc welding equipment.
• Affix filler rod to molten area to form weld.
• Monitor and maintain flow of gases, light torch and adjust gas mixture and pressure to obtain desired flame when making field welds.
• Repair or replace broken or cracked rail and build-up rail, trim weld, grind the surface of rail, and grind gauge sides.
• Inspect welding after grinding to check for hairline cracks or any visible defects.
• Operate propane torches and electric and gas welding equipment.
• Clean work pieces to remove impurities, such as slag, rust, and grease.
• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

Job Requirements

• Education Required: High School Diploma or GED
• Welding certification
• Proven experience as a welder in specific, thermite welding and other rail related maintenance processes
• Experience in new track construction processes
• One or more years of outside work experience (e.g., construction, heavy equipment operating, etc.)

Skills & Knowledge Required

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Excellent problem solving and hand-eye coordination skills
• Deftness and attention to detail
• Ability to read and interpret welding symbols and engineering drawings
• Knowledge of various welding techniques, including TIG, MIG, arc, and oxy-fuel welding
• Ability to pass a welding test
• MS Office Suites skills