Railway Equipment Operator

Universal Rail Systems; Toronto; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Union membership

Training and development opportunities

Safe work culture

Job summary

Universal Rail Solutions Inc. is seeking a Railway Equipment Operator to support maintenance and construction projects in Ontario. You will operate telehandlers and excavators, perform inspections, and document daily activities in a safety-first environment.

The role emphasizes strict adherence to CROR, teamwork, and efficient field operations with potential for varied schedules and overtime. A valid driver’s license is required; AZ certification is a plus.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of railway or construction experience is preferred.
• Experience operating heavy equipment in field environments.
• CROR familiarity or willingness to obtain certification.
• Valid driver’s licence required; AZ for boom truck operation is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate railway and construction equipment (excavators, telehandlers, spikers, loaders, backhoes).
• Perform daily inspections and log books; ensure safe operation and housekeeping.
• Follow CROR and track instructions; use radios per protocols.
• Complete administrative duties: job briefings, equipment documentation.
• Work varied shifts including nights, overtime as required; support field operations.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Problem-solving

Safety awareness

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CROR certification

Job description

Join Our Team as a Railway Equipment Operator (Telehandlers/Excavators)

Location: Toronto, ON

Company: Universal Rail Solutions Inc.

Employment: Full-Time, Unionized

Hourly Rate: $42.54

Ready to Help Build and Maintain Canada's Railways?

If you're an experienced equipment operator who takes pride in safe operations, teamwork, and delivering quality work in the field, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Universal Rail Solutions Inc. is seeking Railway Equipment Operators (specifically Telehandler/Excavator Operators) to support railway maintenance and construction projects in Ontario. In this role, you'll operate specialized railway and construction equipment while contributing to the safe and efficient execution of track-related work.

Who We Are

At Universal Rail Solutions Inc., our work is getting and keeping Canada's railway operators in motion — safely and sustainably. We work coast-to-coast across every railway sector and on projects of all sizes, delivering service excellence and exceptional value to our clients.

Within our team, we call this Doing It Right!

The Opportunity

As a Railway Equipment Operator, you will work as part of a skilled field crew responsible for building, maintaining, and improving railway infrastructure. Safety is at the core of everything we do, and this role plays a critical part in ensuring work is completed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with railway operating standards.

You will operate various pieces of railway and construction equipment while performing inspections, completing documentation, and supporting field operations as required.

What You'll Do

• Operate railway and construction equipment, including:
  • Excavators
  • Telehandlers
  • Spikers
  • Speed Swings
  • Loaders
  • Backhoes
  • Other specialized railway equipment
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and safe work practices
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and complete walk-around checks
• Perform general housekeeping and minor maintenance to ensure equipment remains in safe operating condition
• Complete daily administrative requirements, including:
  • Log books
  • Job briefings
  • Equipment documentation
• Comply with Canadian Rail Operating Rules (CROR) and all applicable track instructions
• Communicate effectively using radios and established communication protocols
• Assist with manual labour and track work activities when required
• Meet productivity and performance expectations established by Supervisors and Foremen
• Support safe work practices to protect employees, the public, and company assets
• Perform other related duties as assigned

What You Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent (considered an asset)
• Minimum 1 year of railway or construction industry experience
• At least one season of equipment operating experience
• Valid Driver's Licence
• Valid AZ Driver's Licence required for boom truck operation
• Canadian Rail Operating Rules (CROR) certification, or willingness to obtain
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities
• Experience using basic hand tools, including:
  • Wrenches
  • Pliers
  • Screwdrivers
• Strong understanding of workplace safety and proper lifting and handling techniques
• Ability to operate equipment safely and responsibly
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• Good customer service and public interaction skills
• Self-motivated with strong attention to detail
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. unassisted
• Ability to travel and work varied schedules, including:
  • Night shifts
  • Rotational work cycles
  • Overtime as required
• Clean driver's abstract and clear criminal record are considered assets
• First Aid, Fall Arrest, GEI, Forklift Loader, and machine-specific certifications are considered assets (training may be provided)

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation.
• Union membership.
• Training and development opportunities.
• The opportunity to work with a great team where Safety is an integral part of our culture.

Universal Rail Solutions Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.