Train Service Employee

Mississippi Export Railroad Company•Mobile, AL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

A Train Service Employee works as a conductor and, as needed, an engineer, supporting the movement of trains, railcars, and engines on railroad main lines and in rail yards. The role involves operating track switches, coupling and uncoupling railcars, carrying out switching operations, and receiving or relaying oral, written, and radio instructions from dispatchers, trainmasters, managers, customers, and other railroad personnel. The employee helps ensure safe, efficient rail operations by inspecting equipment and locomotives, performing brake tests, observing track conditions, maintaining records and switch lists, and coordinating with railroad crews, customers, and internal departments. Work takes place in all weather conditions and includes irregular hours, nights, weekends, holidays, and a two-hour call-out requirement. The role requires physical labor, including lifting up to 50 pounds and standing and walking for extended periods.

Requirements

Ability to complete tasks with minimal supervision.
Ability to complete and pass all railroad exams without assistance.
Ability to take directions from management and co-workers.
Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills that lead to effective resolution.
Proficiency with computers, tablets, and other electronic devices, including Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Google Chrome.
High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver's license and clean motor vehicle driving record.
Ability to pass an FRA physical, drug and alcohol test, and background check.
Willingness and ability to perform manual labor, stand and walk for long periods, and lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability and willingness to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and be subject to a two-hour call-out.
Ability to work in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and storms.

Nice To Haves

Current FRA certification for Locomotive Engineer and Conductor.
RCO qualification.

Responsibilities

Perform work in compliance with FRA regulations and railroad operating rules.
Work safely to prevent accidents, incidents, and injuries.
Work as a conductor and engineer as needed or required.
Communicate switching orders and railcar movements to crew members using radio, telephone, verbal communication, or hand signals.
Give instructions for throwing track switches and coupling or uncoupling railcars; assist with these and other switching activities as needed.
Perform flat switching and mark switch lists.
Maintain records of the numbers, origins, destinations, and cargo of cars switched.
Coordinate switching crew activities from the locomotive cab, ground, or office as needed.
Assemble and disassemble trains in accordance with blocking, classification, hazardous-material rules, and other requirements.
Apply and release handbrakes, operate cut levers, and connect air hoses when making up trains.
Provide safe, efficient movement of railcars.
Perform required equipment inspections and brake tests, and observe track for obstructions or defects.
Ride in the locomotive cab with crew members to observe track conditions.
Make minor repairs to couplings and air hoses, and report equipment requiring major repairs.
Monitor locomotive gauges and meters and use throttle and brake controls properly.
Operate with skill and judgment to avoid damage to equipment, track structures, or lading.
Interpret train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations governing locomotive operation.
Inspect locomotives for fuel, sand, water, supplies, FRA compliance, and mechanical issues; report issues and replenish supplies or make minor repairs as required.
Ensure proper documentation is available in the locomotive cab.
Use required personal protective equipment, including a vest, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
Coordinate and communicate with other railroads, rail crews, Maintenance of Way, and Mechanical departments.
Receive oral or written instructions from a manager or customer regarding cars to be switched, and coordinate professionally with customers.
Communicate with the train dispatcher regarding train operations.
Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes, and apply procedures using good judgment.
Perform other duties as requested or required.