Equipment Operator

North American Rail Solutions•Knoxville, TN

21d

About The Position

North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking an Equipment Operator to perform earthwork for railroad construction and maintenance projects. This hourly craft position includes training to operate specialized on-track equipment. The work combines general construction and precision rail operations, with travel and occasional weekend work expected. The operator sets up and safely operates heavy construction equipment, performs equipment maintenance, and moves or grades earth and materials. The role also includes coordinating machine actions with crew members, interpreting work plans, locating underground services, setting grade standards, and leading or assisting a crew. Operators may perform duties associated with other crafts, including operating on-track machinery, and may be trained to operate equipment and train others. This evergreen posting collects applications for future openings.

Requirements

Minimum of one year of backhoe operating experience.
Valid driver's license.
Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.
Ability to understand work instructions and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.
Physical capability to perform demanding tasks, including lifting up to 100 pounds and working at heights.
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and around heavy equipment, moving machinery, noise, dust, and grease.
Strong situational awareness and attention to safety in active construction environments.
Comfort navigating uneven terrain and safely climbing on and off heavy equipment.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Experience in railroad construction strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Set up and safely operate heavy construction equipment.
Keep equipment clean and perform required maintenance.
Perform pre-start and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation.
Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth and to move, load, or unload material.
Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures.
Coordinate machine actions with other activities and position or move loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.
Signal directions to coworkers.
Study instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements.
Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, before beginning work.
Grade plan requirements and set grade standards.
Lead a crew, delegate work within the work scope, and assist crews with labor as needed.
Understand production and quantity requirements and make decisions based on verifiable standards.
Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts, including operating on-track machinery.
Be willing and able to receive training and train others on the machine.
Perform other duties as assigned.