Certified Operator Trainee

Sperry Rail; Manchester (NH); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Sperry Rail is seeking a Certified Trainee/Apprentice for a field-based role with extensive travel across eastern or western US. You will train at the Sperry School of Rail Flaw Detection and progress toward becoming a Certified Professional Operator in NDT.

After certification, you may operate your own testing platform or lead a crew. A strong emphasis on safety and railroad procedures is required, with 3–4 month long assignments.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license and basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to multitask and work with tools/equipment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Attend and complete training at Sperry School of Rail Flaw Detection.
• Learn rail detection methods and procedures across railways.
• Achieve certification in ultrasonic testing standards.
• Work collaboratively as part of a crew and develop leadership skills to lead a team.

Skills

Valid driver’s license

Basic computer proficiency

multitask

Independent work

Strong organizational skills

Effective communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Ultrasonic testing (NDT)

Job description

Manchester, New Hampshire, United States

Apr 28, 2026

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.

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.

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

Extensive travel opportunities

Hands-on technical experience

Career growth within a global organization

• 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.

Sperry Rail Inc. is a global leader in rail health solutions, utilizing innovative sensor technology to ensure the safety and integrity of rail infrastructure.

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