Backhoe Operator

North American Rail Solutions; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a Backhoe Operator for essential earthwork in railroad construction and maintenance. The role includes training to operate Tamper machines and ballast regulators, with travel and some weekend work expected.

Candidates should have at least one year of backhoe experience, a valid driver’s license, and be able to pass a background check and drug screening. High school diploma or GED preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience operating a backhoe; railroad construction experience preferred.
• Must be able to communicate with supervisors and team members.
• Strong safety awareness and ability to work outdoors in all weather.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate heavy construction equipment safely.
• Perform daily maintenance and keep equipment clean.
• Grade earth and move/load material per plans.
• Coordinate actions with crew and signals from team.
• Lead or assist crew as needed and train others.

Skills

Backhoe operation

Team communication

Safety awareness

Manual dexterity

Stamina

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Tamper machines

Job description

North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to perform essential earthwork for railroad construction and maintenance projects. This hourly craft position also includes training to operate specialized on-track equipment such as Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. The role involves both general construction and precision rail operations, with travel and occasional weekend work expected.

Major Responsibilities

• Set up and operate heavy construction equipment in a safe manner
• Keep equipment clean and perform required maintenance
• Proper pre-start and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation
• Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth and move, load or unload material
• Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
• Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand/audio signals from crew members
• Signal directions to coworkers
• Study instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements
• Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work
• Grade plan requirements and set grade standards
• Lead a crew, delegate work within work scope, and assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed basis
• Understand production and quantity requirements and make decisions based on verifiable standards
• Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts including operating on-track machinery
• Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education Required:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred

Work Experience Required

• Minimum of one year operating a backhoe; experience in railroad construction strongly preferred
• Valid driver’s license required
• Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening

Skills & Knowledge Required

• Ability to understand work instructions and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members
• Physical capability to perform demanding tasks, including lifting up to 100 lbs and working at heights
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and around heavy equipment, moving machinery, noise, dust, and grease
• Strong situational awareness and attention to safety in active construction environments
• Comfortable navigating uneven terrain and climbing on/off heavy equipment safely

Thank you for your interest in this position and for taking the time to apply. We appreciate your patience as we review all applications. While we will provide updates as soon as they are available, please note that we may not be able to respond to all applicants individually.