Dual Qualified Engineer - Conductor

Socket.dev; Illinois; On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev seeks a locomotive engineer/conductor to perform duties required for safe railroad operation in Illinois. You will inspect locomotives, manage train consists, and execute signals and movements in coordination with crew.

Role requires the ability to work outdoors in varying weather, long hours, nights, weekends, and holidays, with familiarity in railroad rules and safety protocols.

Qualifications

• Ability to understand printed and oral communications.
• Ability to recognize colors and understand visual displays.
• Ability to make logical choices and/or draw logical conclusions.
• Experience with railroad operations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate locomotive and conductor duties as assigned.
• Perform FRA-required checks and inspections for readiness.
• Receive train consist and manage train makeup and loads.
• Relay signals and movements using lantern, flag, or radio.
• Move trains by signaling crew and managing air brakes as needed.
• Follow train orders and railroad safety rules.

Skills

Communication skills

Color vision

Decision making

Depth perception

Coordination

Physical endurance

Outdoor work

Schedule flexibility

Railroad experience

Education

High school diploma or GED

Valid driver’s license

Job description

Normal Work Schedule:

Hours of Work: Variable.

Days of Work: Variable.

Note: The hours of work are established as needed by operations and at the direction of management and are subject to change by management as required.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Position will work as both a locomotive engineer and conductor as needed.
• Inspect locomotive for operational readiness by making FRA- and company-required checks and tests.
• Receive train consist, which provides the physical makeup of train and includes weights, lengths, location of loads and empties, and cars requiring special handling.
• Apply knowledge of territory, including terrain, grades, curves, and grade crossings, in order to give prescribed warning signals and to otherwise operate the train in a safe manner.
• Conducts the movement of rail cars and train movements; signals crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and/or flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back-up or set and release air brakes.
• Observes, interprets, and relays arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train.
• Operates track switches (visually checks switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties.
• Reads and understands the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material.
• Prepares required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fills out forms including train orders.
• Inspects the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary.
• May couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains.
• Comply with train orders, train signals, radio communications, and railroad rules and regulations to operate the locomotive in an efficient and safe manner.
• Observe track to detect obstructions and to anticipate operating problems, as required by federal or company rules; diagnose minor malfunctions and perform minor maintenance and servicing activities when maintenance personnel are not available.
• Notify proper authorities and prepare reports to explain accidents, unscheduled stops, or delays.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Ability to understand printed and written and oral communications.
• Ability to recognize colors and understand visual displays.
• Ability to make logical choices and/or draw logical conclusions
• Ability to judge speed/distance of objects or moving parts.
• Good eye/hand coordination.
• Ability to take actions and/or make decisions affecting security/well-being of others.
• Two years of related work experience and one year of engineer experience; two years of conductor experience preferred.
• Be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions - including snow, ice, rain, cold and heat - and be expected to work various hours, nights, weekends, and holidays.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or GED; and/or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Requires a valid driver's license.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.
• Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Adjusting or moving objects up to 75 pounds in all directions.
• High temperatures.
• Outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind.

Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.