Foreman

North American Rail Solutions; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

North American Rail Solutions in Knoxville is seeking a Foreman I to lead daily track maintenance and construction activities. You will oversee field crews, ensure safety and quality standards, and coordinate with project managers to deliver work on schedule.

The role emphasizes outdoor, fast‑paced work with a focus on operational excellence, supervision, and training of crew members to promote safety and efficiency.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years in railroad/track maintenance with 1+ year in a supervisory role.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and grade plans.
• Knowledge of FRA regulations and track maintenance standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily crew activities and safety briefings.
• Delegate tasks and assist with labor.
• Perform inspections and quality checks on completed work.
• Operate and maintain heavy equipment safely.
• Enforce PPE and safety policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with project managers, clients and crew members.
• Maintain reports, timesheets, and equipment logs.
• Train and mentor crew members to promote safety and skill development.
• Respond to emergencies and assist in incident reporting.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Teamwork

Read blueprints

FRA regulations

Computer skills

Heavy equipment operation

Professional demeanor

Reliability

Willingness to learn

Weather tolerance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is looking for a Foreman I to lead daily track maintenance and construction. This role oversees field crews, ensures safety and quality standards are met, and coordinates with project managers to deliver work efficiently and on schedule. The Foreman I plays a key role in maintaining operational excellence in a fast‑paced, outdoor environment.

Major Responsibilities

• Lead daily crew activities and conduct briefings to review goals, safety, and performance.
• Delegate tasks based on crew capabilities and assist with labor.
• Perform inspections and quality checks on completed work to ensure standards are met.
• Operate and maintain heavy equipment and tools safely and efficiently.
• Perform basic repairs (e.g., gaging, rail swaps, switch components, tamping).
• Monitor job site safety, enforce use of PPE, and ensure compliance with FRA regulations and company policies.
• Identify and report site hazards, equipment malfunctions, and deviations from work plans.
• Communicate effectively with project managers, clients, and crew members to coordinate schedules and resolve issues.
• Maintain accurate reports, timesheets, equipment logs, and project documentation.
• Promote a positive, professional, and safety‑focused work environment.
• Engage in safety training, report hazards, and contribute to safety discussions.
• Train and mentor crew members to promote skill development and safety awareness.
• Respond to emergencies and assist in incident reporting and resolution.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Education Required

• High School Diploma or GED

Work Experience Required

• At least 5 years’ experience in the railroad industry/track maintenance combined with a minimum of 1 year of experience in a supervisory or management role.

Skills & Knowledge Required

• Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to read blueprints and grade plans.
• Knowledge of FRA regulations and track maintenance standards.
• Proficient in basic computer applications.
• Skilled in safe operation of tools and heavy equipment.
• Professional demeanor, integrity, and reliability.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to evolving job requirements.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions.