Welder Helper - Hutchinson, KS

Union Pacific•Hutchinson, KS
•Onsite

About The Position

As a Welder Helper at Union Pacific, you will help maintain railroad tracks by supporting rail repair, tempering, cutting, and other welding-related work. Your work repairing or replacing tracks contributes to safe and efficient train operations. The position includes track maintenance, handling materials and equipment, monitoring track conditions, and working in compliance with safety rules and Federal Railroad Administration regulations. Extensive travel across Union Pacific’s 23-state system may be required, sometimes at short notice. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship. Candidates must pass a Physical Ability Test and meet applicable commercial driver medical requirements. A Union Pacific driver certification is required during the probationary period; a CDL must be obtained during that period if required for vehicles operated in the role.

Requirements

  • Be at least 21 years old.
  • Possess a current and valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
  • Hold a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License, or be able to obtain one during the probationary period. A CDL is required during probation if operating a vehicle with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or greater.
  • Meet the FMCSA medical requirements for commercial motor vehicle drivers, as determined by Union Pacific Health and Medical Services.
  • Comprehend and interpret regulations and instructions.
  • Have 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, with occasional bending, stooping, and kneeling.
  • Have manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination for precise movements.
  • Be able to occasionally lift and carry up to 65 pounds and push or pull objects weighing up to 119 pounds.
  • Be able to climb ladders when needed, walk frequently, 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 at short notice.
  • Maintain a strong commitment to safe work practices.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

  • Perform track maintenance, including repairs, installations, and component removals.
  • Use load and 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 assigned duties as necessary.

Benefits

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