Hostler / laborer

Rideau Transit Maintenance; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading transit maintenance company seeks a Hostler / Laborer to oversee day-to-day operations within maintenance yards. The role involves operating various vehicles and equipment while ensuring safety and performance standards are met. Ideal candidates will have a high school education, relevant trade certifications, and strong commitment to health and safety practices.

Benefits

Participation in on-call and standby rotations

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Qualifications

• Experience in rail transit or transportation is a plus.
• Ability to work in a 24/7 shift environment.
• Willingness to participate in on-call rotations as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate rolling stock vehicles and heavy equipment within maintenance yards.
• Perform general maintenance and conduct inspections of vehicles and equipment.
• Submit daily shift activity reports and follow safety protocols.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Judgment

Customer Service

Adaptability

Health and Safety Commitment

Education

High school diploma

Relevant trade certifications

Tools

Centralized Maintenance Management System (CMMS)

Forklift Operation Certification

Fall Arrest Certification

Working at Heights Certification

Job description

The Hostler / Laborer is responsible for the day-to-day activities within the maintenance yards, supporting safe and efficient operations. This role involves operating equipment, performing general maintenance, and working collaboratively with various stakeholders to ensure the maintenance yards meet operational, safety, and service standards.

• Key Responsibilities :
• Operate rolling stock vehicles within the maintenance yards.
• Operate heavy equipment such as rail car movers, lifting jacks, landscaping equipment, and hand tools.
• Perform general maintenance yard maintenance to ensure a safe and clean working environment.
• Meet maintenance plan objectives and schedules.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicles and equipment.
• Operate vehicles including trucks, forklifts, and cranes.
• Maintain safe access throughout facilities, including debris, water, and snow removal as needed.
• Respond to service requests and perform or coordinate both routine and emergency maintenance.
• Carry out work in accordance with established safety procedures and risk management protocols.
• Use RTM’s Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to log maintenance and repair activities.
• Ensure maintenance work meets response time and quality standards set by management.
• Adhere to all internal and external policies and regulations, including health, safety, environmental, and fire protection standards.
• Generate daily shift activity reports for submission to the supervisor.
• Complete hours-of-service documentation as required.
• Follow driving policies and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Qualifications :
• High school diploma and relevant trade certifications (a combination of education and experience will be considered).
• Familiarity with a Centralized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
• Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to customer service.
• Good judgment with the ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergencies.
• Ability to work efficiently without supervision.
• Strong commitment to health, safety, quality, and environmental standards.
• Experience in the rail transit or rail transportation industry is considered an asset.
• Certifications such as Forklift Operation, Fall Arrest, and Working at Heights are advantageous.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Job Conditions :
• Willingness to work in a 24 / 7 shift-based environment.
• Participation in on-call, standby, and emergency call-out rotations as required.
• Mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Valid driver's license required for travel between sites.
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces.
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including inclement weather.
• Subject to pre-employment and ongoing medical testing to meet occupational requirements.
• Exposure to environmental elements including heat, cold, water, oil, grease, noise, and paint