Certified Operator Trainee

Sperry Rail; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extensive travel opportunities

Hands-on technical experience

Career growth within a global org

Job summary

Sperry Rail Service is seeking a motivated trainee for a field-based role requiring extensive travel across the eastern and western United States. You will undergo paid training at the Sperry School of Rail Flaw Detection to become a Certified Professional Operator in RFD non-destructive testing, with hands-on field experience and eventual leadership opportunities.

Upon certification, you may operate your own testing platform or lead a crew, contributing to Sperry's rail safety innovations.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Valid driver's license.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to multitask and work with tools/equipment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to pass a background check, drug screen, and DOT physical.

Responsibilities

• Attend and successfully complete training at the Sperry School of Rail Flaw Detection.
• Learn and apply rail detection methods, technologies, and procedures across Short Line and Class I railways.
• Achieve certification in ultrasonic testing standards and apply skills in the field.
• Work collaboratively as part of a crew and develop leadership skills to eventually lead a team.
• Gain knowledge of Sperry's diagnostic technologies, systems, and interfaces.
• Develop mechanical aptitude, including equipment setup, troubleshooting, and basic repairs.
• Learn and adhere to railroad operating procedures and safety protocols.
• Apply classroom and field training during extended travel assignments (3-4 months at a time).

Skills

Multitasking

Independent work

Effective communication

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

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 position requiring travel throughout eastern or western US for extended periods (3-4 months at a time).

As a Certified Trainee/Apprentice, you will be trained and developed into a Certified Professional Operator in the Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) non-destructive testing (NDT) industry. Sperry provides paid, hands-on training through our Connecticut-based Sperry School of Rail Flaw Detection, followed by extensive field experience.

Upon successful completion of training and certification, you will advance into a role where you may be responsible for operating your own testing platform and/or leading a crew.

This role is field-based and requires extensive travel to multiple job sites, which will be the primary work locations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Attend and successfully complete training at the Sperry School of Rail Flaw Detection

• Learn and apply rail detection methods, technologies, and procedures across Short Line and Class I railways

• Achieve certification in ultrasonic testing standards and apply skills in the field

• Work collaboratively as part of a crew and develop leadership skills to eventually lead a team

• Gain knowledge of Sperry's diagnostic technologies, systems, and interfaces

• Develop mechanical aptitude, including equipment setup, troubleshooting, and basic repairs

• Learn and adhere to railroad operating procedures and safety protocols

• Apply classroom and field training during extended travel assignments (3-4 months at a time)

Basic Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required

• Valid driver's license

• Basic computer proficiency

• Ability to multitask and work with tools/equipment

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills

• Effective verbal and written communication skills

• Ability to pass a background check, drug screen, and DOT physical (where applicable)

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) experience (ultrasonic preferred)

• Prior railroad experience

• Mechanical aptitude or experience with automotive/technical systems

Compensation & Benefits

• Extensive travel opportunities

• Hands-on technical experience

• Career growth within a global organization

Career Growth

• This role offers a clear career path:
  Trainee -> Certified Operator -> Crew Leadership Opportunities
• Sperry invests in your development by providing the training, tools, and real-world experience needed to build a long-term career in a specialized and high-demand industry.

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