Dual Qualified Engineer - Conductor

Pinsly Railroad Company•Westfield, MA

21h•Onsite

About The Position

This position requires an individual to work as both a locomotive engineer and a conductor, as operational needs dictate. Key responsibilities include inspecting locomotives for operational readiness, managing train consists, and applying extensive knowledge of the territory to ensure safe train operation. The role involves conducting and signaling train movements, operating track switches, and performing various duties related to rail car handling. The successful candidate will be responsible for reading and understanding railroad rules, timetables, and safety instructions, preparing daily reports, and inspecting train and equipment conditions. Compliance with train orders, signals, and regulations is paramount for efficient and safe locomotive operation. The role also involves observing tracks for obstructions, diagnosing minor malfunctions, and reporting accidents or delays. This is a demanding role requiring work outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow, ice, rain, cold, and heat, with variable hours that include nights, weekends, and holidays, subject to management's direction.

Requirements

Ability to understand printed and written and oral communications.
Ability to recognize colors and understand visual displays.
Ability to make logical choices and/or draw logical conclusions.
Ability to judge speed/distance of objects or moving parts.
Good eye/hand coordination.
Ability to take actions and/or make decisions affecting security/well-being of others.
Two years of related work experience.
One year of engineer experience.
Be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions - including snow, ice, rain, cold and heat.
Be expected to work various hours, nights, weekends, and holidays.
High school diploma or GED; and/or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Requires a valid driver's license.
Participation in a Random Drug & Alcohol Program.

Nice To Haves

Two years of conductor experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Work as both a locomotive engineer and conductor as needed.
Inspect locomotive for operational readiness by making FRA- and company-required checks and tests.
Receive train consist, which provides the physical makeup of train and includes weights, lengths, location of loads and empties, and cars requiring special handling.
Apply knowledge of territory, including terrain, grades, curves, and grade crossings, in order to give prescribed warning signals and to otherwise operate the train in a safe manner.
Conducts the movement of rail cars and train movements.
Signals crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and/or 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.
Reads and understands the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material.
Prepares required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fills out forms including train orders.
Inspects the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary.
May couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains.
Comply with train orders, train signals, radio communications, and railroad rules and regulations to operate the locomotive in an efficient and safe manner.
Observe track to detect obstructions and to anticipate operating problems, as required by federal or company rules.
Diagnose minor malfunctions and perform minor maintenance and servicing activities when maintenance personnel are not available.
Notify proper authorities and prepare reports to explain accidents, unscheduled stops, or delays.
Perform other duties as assigned.