Locomotive Field Mechanic

Northern Plains Railroad, Inc.•Centerville, IA

29d•Onsite

About The Position

The Locomotive Field Mechanic position will assist with Locomotive inspections, Mechanical Maintenance & Locomotive operator services at customers facilities in the Midwest regions.

Requirements

Good mechanical background will be required to become conversant with the General Code of Operating Rules, Safety Rules, AAR Rules and regulations, and FRA requirements.
Strong Mechanical and Electrical Background.
Experience with both AC and DC voltage systems.
Must be willing to work flexible schedules/hours.
High integrity, ethics, and a positive work attitude
Problem solving, oral & written communications, organizational and interpersonal skills, perception, creativity.
Possess analytical and calculating ability.
GED or Higher, with 2 – 3 years’ experience working as a mechanic.
Valid driver’s license required.
Must have and maintain an insurable driving status which includes but is not limited to NPRS driver provisions.
Pass a mandatory drug test to maintain a drug-free workplace. Random, reasonable suspicion and post-accident testing may also be required throughout employment.
Undergo a thorough physical examination to ensure the requirements of the position can be met.
Provide professional references to validate qualifications and character.
Complete a comprehensive background check to confirm suitability for the position.

Nice To Haves

Railroad experience a plus.
2-3 years' experience in the Railroad industry is highly preferred.
Experience spotting or operating with a locomotive, track mobile or the like is highly preferred
Ability to obtain a Class B CDL & DOT Medical Card preferred.

Responsibilities

responsible for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of the electrical and mechanical components on diesel electric locomotives.
Conduct inspections on locomotive electrical and Locomotive Engine components.
Perform scheduled electrical inspections in compliance with Company, Industry, customer and Federal standards.
Inspect various small (relays, voltage regulators) and large components (traction motors generators).
Inspect and test circuitry with electrical testing equipment.
Inspect wheels, trucks, cab, and internal diesel engine parts, inspect for usual smells, overheating, and small changes in the visual appearance of objects/materials.
Troubleshoot malfunctions.
Diagnose electrical malfunctions in locomotive or diesel engine components; assess nature of problems and determine needed corrective action; includes both high and low voltage equipment.
Perform maintenance and repairs.
Replace electrical components in the locomotive cab or diesel electrical compartments (junction boxes, voltage regulators, traction motors) as needed.
Disassemble and clean electrical parts.
Assemble components.
Provide maintenance for miscellaneous equipment and facilities using blueprints, schematics, and location circuit plans.
Replace locomotive and diesel engine component (wheels, traction motors, and worn or cracked engine components).
Safely and effectively operate the following: high and low precision measuring instruments (micrometers, tape measures, dial calipers); precision machines (drill and punch presses, bench lathes); electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic tools (drills, wrenches, grinders); material handling equipment (forklifts, cranes, overhead hoists); acetylene torches and electric welders.
Understand and follow company and industry safety rules, practices, and procedures.
Must wear prescribed safety apparel.
Take appropriate action when conditions threaten the safety of self or coworkers.
Ensure equipment and work area are in safe operating condition before starting work.
Read and comply with all train orders, signals, railroad rules, and regulations.
Knows and understands the requirements of FRA & OSHA/MSHA Rules and Regulations.
Oral communication via train radio with Operations Manager and train crews.
Will ensure Daily Track Reports are accurate and both shifts are working as a team to compile information needed for the following report.
Accountable for compliance of all operating rules, policies, and guidelines.
Must be capable of obtaining and keeping current conductor certification (FRA requirement-site specific).
Read and interpret orders, schedules, and other written instructions received from the train dispatcher and discuss their contents with other crew members.
Perform switching, assembling, and disassembling of trains.
Perform safe operations of the locomotive.
Properly and safely engage/release hand brakes and operate rail yard switches.
Inspects couplings and air hoses to ensure they are securely fastened.
Attend rules and safety classes and ensure all rules are followed as directed by the Company, FRA, and other governing agencies.
Inspects locomotives, and other equipment to ensure compliance with FRA and Company rules.
Monitor gauges or meters that measure speed, amperage, battery charge, or air pressure in brake lines or in main reservoirs.
Observe tracks to detect and report obstructions.
Utilizes/understand hand signals, two-way radios, and cell phones for communication with other train crew members and dispatchers.
Inspect locomotives before, during, and after each run to check fuel levels, supplies, and mechanical problems.
Prepares accurate reports as required by the Company, FRA, and other governing agencies.