Rail Yard Maintenance/Operator

JRJ Group•Fairborn, OH

About The Position

Are you a hands-on, mechanically skilled operator who enjoys working outdoors and playing a vital role in keeping rail yard operations smooth and safe? Join us as a Rail Yard Operator and be at the center of coordinating railcar movements, operating equipment, and maintaining yard safety in a fast-paced environment. Why would you want to work with us? We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support the health and well-being of our team, including: • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance • Company-Paid Life Insurance • Company-Paid Short-Term Disability • 401(k) Plan with Company Match • Paid Time Off (PTO) • Holiday Pay • And more! Join a team that values your well-being both in and out of the workplace. Rail Yard Operator Key Responsibilities: Railcar and Equipment Operation: Safely operate railcar movers, mobile equipment, and yard tools to position railcars accurately within the yard. Perform pre- and post-operation inspections on all equipment to ensure functionality and report any defects or issues immediately. Assist with loading and unloading materials from railcars, coordinating car positioning to optimize yard flow. Track Infrastructure Awareness: Monitor rail tracks, switches, and crossings within the yard for alignment, drainage, and ballast conditions, reporting any irregularities to maintenance teams. Support minor track maintenance activities such as tamping, bolt tightening, and resurfacing when needed. Safety & Compliance: Follow all company, MSHA, and FRA safety regulations and procedures while performing daily operations. Monitor yard conditions to identify hazards and ensure safe access for workers and equipment. Participate actively in safety meetings and regular inspections to promote a culture of safety in the yard. Mechanical Aptitude & Troubleshooting: Utilize mechanical knowledge to identify equipment malfunctions or railcar defects during operations. Collaborate with maintenance personnel to report infrastructure issues, mechanical failures, or operational obstacles promptly. Conduct minor routine maintenance or assist maintenance crews when necessary to reduce downtime. Communication & Coordination: Work closely with terminal operators, supervisors, and maintenance teams to coordinate railcar movements, equipment needs, and operational priorities. Maintain accurate records of inspections, maintenance activities, and equipment usage. Communicate effectively to ensure smooth handoffs and uninterrupted operations throughout shifts. Work Environment Adaptability: Operate confidently in all weather conditions and navigate uneven terrain safely. Demonstrate flexibility by working overtime, nights, weekends, and holidays as required by operational demands. Uphold a safety-first mindset and follow strict operating procedures at all times.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Valid driver’s license required; CDL is a plus.
Strong mechanical aptitude with basic understanding of tools, hydraulics, and equipment maintenance.

Nice To Haves

1–3 years of experience in rail yard operations, industrial maintenance, or construction equipment operation preferred.

Responsibilities

Safely operate railcar movers, mobile equipment, and yard tools to position railcars accurately within the yard.
Perform pre- and post-operation inspections on all equipment to ensure functionality and report any defects or issues immediately.
Assist with loading and unloading materials from railcars, coordinating car positioning to optimize yard flow.
Monitor rail tracks, switches, and crossings within the yard for alignment, drainage, and ballast conditions, reporting any irregularities to maintenance teams.
Support minor track maintenance activities such as tamping, bolt tightening, and resurfacing when needed.
Follow all company, MSHA, and FRA safety regulations and procedures while performing daily operations.
Monitor yard conditions to identify hazards and ensure safe access for workers and equipment.
Participate actively in safety meetings and regular inspections to promote a culture of safety in the yard.
Utilize mechanical knowledge to identify equipment malfunctions or railcar defects during operations.
Collaborate with maintenance personnel to report infrastructure issues, mechanical failures, or operational obstacles promptly.
Conduct minor routine maintenance or assist maintenance crews when necessary to reduce downtime.
Work closely with terminal operators, supervisors, and maintenance teams to coordinate railcar movements, equipment needs, and operational priorities.
Maintain accurate records of inspections, maintenance activities, and equipment usage.
Communicate effectively to ensure smooth handoffs and uninterrupted operations throughout shifts.
Operate confidently in all weather conditions and navigate uneven terrain safely.
Demonstrate flexibility by working overtime, nights, weekends, and holidays as required by operational demands.
Uphold a safety-first mindset and follow strict operating procedures at all times.