CDL Driver (CN)

Sperry Rail; Town of Waterloo (NY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Extensive travel opportunities

Travel and lodging paid

Per diem for meals

Job summary

Sperry Rail Service is seeking a field-based CDL Driver to operate hi-rail vehicles and support testing operations across Eastern or Western US for extended periods. Role requires travel 3–4 months at a time, pre/post trip inspections, DOT compliance, and hands-on data collection with onboard systems.

Strong safety discipline and mechanical aptitude are essential. Competitive compensation includes $21.60 per hour, a $1,000 sign-on bonus, and travel/lodging coverage, making this a demanding but

Qualifications

• Must have valid CDL Class A or B with air brake endorsement.
• Ability to pass a DOT physical, drug screen, and background check.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Operate hi-rail trucks and rail bound detector cars on roadways and railroad tracks.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections and maintain DOT logs.
• Travel extensively (3-4 months at a time) within assigned regions.
• Assist with rail flaw detection testing and data collection.
• Monitor and interpret data on onboard computer systems.
• Perform ground level rail inspections using handheld equipment.
• Maintain and repair detector carriage and vehicle equipment.
• Follow DOT/FRA regulations and wear PPE at all times.
• Communicate clearly with crew members and report safety concerns.

Skills

Strong communication

Safety awareness

Mechanical aptitude

Physical endurance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Overview

Sperry Rail Service is a leading global provider of Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) services and technologies for railway networks worldwide. With over 95 years of industry leadership, Sperry continues to advance rail safety through innovation, cutting edge technology, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.

Position Summary

This is a high travel, field based CDL driving position requiring travel throughout either Eastern or Western US for extended periods (3-4 months at a time). The CDL Driver operates specialized rail inspection vehicles, supports testing operations, and ensures compliance with all DOT and safety regulations.

The location shown in this posting is used for recruiting purposes. This role is field based and requires extensive travel to multiple job sites, which will be the primary work locations.

Key Responsibilities

Travel & Work Environment

• Travel extensively (3-4 months at a time) within assigned regions
• Perform all work in the field in varied and sometimes extreme weather conditions

CDL Driving & Vehicle Operations

• Operate commercial vehicles (hi rail trucks and rail bound detector cars) on roadways and railroad tracks
• Perform pre trip and post trip inspections
• Maintain DOT compliance, including driver logs, inspections, and regulatory requirements

Inspection & Operations Support

• Assist with rail flaw detection testing and data collection
• Monitor and interpret data on onboard computer systems
• Perform ground level rail inspections using handheld equipment

Maintenance & Equipment Care

• Perform routine vehicle maintenance (oil, fluids, filters, etc.)
• Assist with the repair and maintenance of the detector carriage and equipment
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the vehicle and equipment

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies and DOT/FRA regulations
• Wear required PPE at all times
• Complete required training, including annual Road Worker Safety

Communication & Teamwork

• Communicate clearly with crew members via radio, intercom, and in person
• Report safety concerns, equipment issues, and track conditions promptly
• Maintain professional relationships with railroad personnel

Physical Requirements

This is a physically demanding role. Candidates must be able to:

• Climb steps/ladders frequently (up to 300 steps per day)
• Walk on uneven railroad surfaces
• Bend, kneel, squat, and crawl for extended periods
• Work in confined spaces (including under vehicles with ~18 inch clearance)
• Sit or drive for extended periods
• Lift up to 85 lbs., occasionally assist with over 100 lbs.

Sensory Requirements

• Vision: Ability to distinguish colors (red/green/yellow), read monitors, and meet DOT/FRA vision standards
• Hearing: Ability to hear verbal communication, alarms, and radio transmissions in a safety sensitive environment

Basic Qualifications

• Valid CDL Class A or B with air brake endorsement
• Ability to pass a DOT physical, drug screen, and background check (where permitted by law)
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Basic mechanical aptitude (e.g., changing tires, replacing batteries)
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of commercial driving experience
• High School Diploma or GED

Compensation & Benefits

• $1,000 sign on bonus (after 60 days of employment)
• Extensive travel opportunities
• Hands on technical experience
• Career growth within a global organization
• Pay: $21.60 per hour
• Overtime opportunities
• Per diem for meals
• Travel and lodging expenses paid for by Sperry

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