Front-End Loader Operator / Escavator Operator - Houston, TX

Watco • Houston, TX

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Front-End Loader Operator / Escavator Operator safely and efficiently operates heavy machinery to support material handling, loading, unloading, and site operations. The role requires compliance with safety regulations, operating procedures, and company standards while maintaining productivity. Operators communicate with team members, supervisors, and customers to ensure daily tasks are completed safely. Work may involve rotating shifts and extreme weather conditions. This description is general and illustrative and is not all-inclusive.

Requirements

• Current and valid driver's license.
• Must obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) if required by the location.
• Class A commercial driver's license, or willingness and ability to obtain one.
• Must pass and obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications required for the position.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Nice To Haves

• Training or certifications in heavy equipment operation.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain heavy rail-related machinery, including tampers, ballast regulators, forklifts, backhoes, compact track or wheel loaders, and brush cutters.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and maintain accurate inspection records in handwritten and electronic formats.
• Maintain safe work practices, monitor worksite safety, and comply with applicable state, federal, customer, company, and Federal Railroad Administration standards and regulations.
• Read and interpret material lists, safety manuals, load charts, inventory, gauges, schematics, maintenance manuals, safety rules, material movement, and operational instructions.
• Inspect, load, unload, distribute, maintain, install, and repair track materials, including rail, cross ties, switch ties, ballast, switch stands, and turnouts.
• Assist with surfacing, aligning, and gauging track to ensure proper structure, geometry, and stability.
• Perform vegetation control and remove snow and debris from tracks, switches, crossings, and walkways.
• Support construction, maintenance, and repair of road crossings, bridges, culverts, tunnels, and other rail infrastructure using heavy machinery, hand tools, and manual labor.
• Troubleshoot and perform minor field equipment repairs; report complex mechanical issues to managers or qualified maintenance personnel.
• Follow safety procedures, including using required personal protective equipment and fall-protection devices.
• Inspect track infrastructure, document defects and repairs, and comply with track authority guidelines.
• Respond to incidents, accidents, and emergency calls as needed.
• Communicate and collaborate with team members, supervisors, other department managers, and dispatch by radio and in person.
• Document consumables, inventory, fuel, and material usage accurately and promptly.
• Participate in training and demonstrate proficiency in job-specific tasks within the onboarding period.
• Maintain consistent attendance and punctuality, and work overtime, rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Work efficiently in supervised and unsupervised environments.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers.
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center.
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University.
• Career advancement opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED