Rail Operations Lead — Yard & Road

CPKC; Bensenville (IL); On-site; USD 117,000 - 143,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible benefits package

Pension/retirement plans

Employee share purchase plan

Annual fitness subsidy

Part-time studies program

Job summary

CPKC, located in the U.S. state of Illinois, seeks an Assistant Superintendent to lead yard-terminal/road operations and drive the daily operating plan with Trainmasters and union workforce.

Will supervise train crews, yardmasters, and support staff to deliver safe, efficient results across the region. Travel is substantial (80-90%), GCOR certification is required, and the role involves safety program rollout, incident investigations, and development of career paths for team members.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 5+ years of railway experience, qualified Conductor or Locomotive Engineer preferred.
• Valid driver's license.
• Valid U.S. passport or ability to obtain one; allowing entry/re-entry to Canada and Mexico.
• Must be or become GCOR rules qualified.
• Knowledge of investigations and root cause analysis.
• Ability to communicate effectively across all levels and through multiple channels.
• Ability to set priorities, develop action plans, and execute effectively under pressure.
• Willingness to be available 24/7 for operational leadership needs.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safe and tactical execution of the Operating Plan through active supervision of operating (train) crews, yardmasters, support staff, assistant trainmasters and trainmasters.
• Drive operating plan in a safe and efficient manner.
• Deliver results against performance and financial metrics through asset utilization.
• Participate and assist with safety and business plan rollouts across the region.
• Assist in establishing career development plans and stretch assignments to further develop team members for career succession.
• Mentor the team continuously, reinforcing behaviors leading to outstanding results.
• Ensure optimization and cost control through the efficiency of business support functions.
• Ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements and CPKC policies; provide input to Labor Relations for future contract bargaining.
• Align with all regulatory agencies and maintain positive working relationships.
• Conduct safety-related efficiency tests, train rides, and activities to support a safe, efficient operation.
• Ensure timely implementation of processes identified through corporate initiatives and ensure the application of CPKC’s safety practices, policies, and procedures by all subordinates.
• Prioritize achieving results while maintaining a focus on safety.
• Occasionally operate trains; maintain certifications and licenses, GCOR, Engineer etc.

Skills

Railway operations

Leadership

GCOR knowledge

Communication skills

Safety compliance

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

CPKC, located in the U.S. state of Illinois, seeks an Assistant Superintendent to lead yard-terminal/road operations and drive the daily operating plan with Trainmasters and union workforce.

Will supervise train crews, yardmasters, and support staff to deliver safe, efficient results across the region. Travel is substantial (80-90%), GCOR certification is required, and the role involves safety program rollout, incident investigations, and development of career paths for team members.