Welder Helper - Tucson, AZ

Union Pacific • Tucson, AZ

1d

About The Position

As a Welder Helper, you will contribute to maintaining Union Pacific railroad tracks by assisting with rail repair, tempering, cutting, and other welding-related work. Track repairs and replacements help support the safe and efficient movement of trains across North America.

The role includes track maintenance, handling materials and equipment, monitoring track conditions and passing trains, and supporting safe operations in compliance with Federal Railroad Administration requirements. The position involves strenuous outdoor work, proximity to large rail equipment, and potentially extensive travel across Union Pacific’s 23-state system. Candidates must pass a Physical Ability Test and meet applicable medical qualifications for commercial motor vehicle drivers. A Union Pacific driver certification is required during the probationary period; a CDL must be obtained during that period if required for the vehicles operated.

Requirements

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Possess a current, valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
• Hold a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL), or be able to obtain one during the probationary period.
• Become a Union Pacific certified driver during the probationary period and obtain a CDL during that period if required to operate a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 pounds or greater.
• Meet FMCSA physical qualifications for commercial motor vehicle drivers, as determined by Union Pacific Health and Medical Services; additional medical requirements may apply.
• Comprehend and interpret regulations and instructions.
• Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Successfully complete an English-language assessment before proceeding to the interview stage.
• Successfully pass a Physical Ability Test.
• Be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.
• Be able to perform physically strenuous work continuously; occasionally bend, stoop, and kneel; lift and carry objects up to 65 pounds; push and pull objects up to 119 pounds; climb ladders when needed; walk frequently and maintain balance on varied surfaces; and stand for more than half of each workday.
• Be comfortable working near large equipment, including railcars, locomotives, and cranes.
• Be prepared for extensive travel across Union Pacific's 23-state system, potentially on short notice.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safe work practices.

Nice To Haves

• Valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
• At least one year of Railroad Maintenance of Way experience.
• Experience working outdoors in diverse weather conditions, whether professional, personal, or volunteer.
• Experience working in a construction-type environment, whether professional, personal, or volunteer.
• Experience operating heavy equipment such as construction or farm machinery, whether professional, personal, or volunteer.
• Welding proficiency or a welding certificate, whether acquired professionally, personally, or through volunteer work.
• Willingness to work on-call, overtime, various shifts, weekends and holidays, and up to seven days a week.
• Willingness to reside and work in the specific locations indicated in the job listing.

Responsibilities

• Perform track maintenance, including repairs, installations, and component removals.
• Use load/unload devices to handle and transport track materials and equipment.
• Monitor track conditions for issues or defects and observe the right-of-way and passing trains for shifted loads or spillages.
• Operate equipment to drive spikes, tighten or loosen track bolts, and remove spikes with pullers.
• Maintain the trackbed by replacing and compacting ballast and assisting with unloading ballast from ballast cars.
• Build positive working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, contractors, and customers, and manage conflicts effectively.
• Comply with safety rules, operational guidelines, and Federal Railroad Administration regulations.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Ongoing learning and development.
• Educational Assistance, including access to online and in-person courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Metropolitan Community College at little to no out-of-pocket cost.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with a 20% match up to 5%.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, collectively bargained through union membership.
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed