Roadmaster (Railroad)

Mendocino Railway; Fort Bragg (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid holidays, paid sick leave, and PT

Job summary

Mendocino Railway in Fort Bragg/Willits, CA is hiring a Roadmaster to oversee the safe maintenance, inspection, and repair of all track infrastructure along the 40-mile mainline. You will lead Maintenance of Way crews, coordinate with operations to minimize service disruptions, and ensure compliance with FRA regulations and company standards.

The role is full-time and onsite in Fort Bragg and Willits, CA, requiring strong leadership, knowledge of track safety practices, and the ability to manage

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training preferred.
• 4+ years of track maintenance experience.
• Leadership and supervisory experience required.
• Strong knowledge of FRA track safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee maintenance, repairs, and inspections of track, bridges, and roadbed.
• Supervise Maintenance of Way (MOW) crews and ensure safe practices.
• Develop, implement, and execute budgets, projects, schedules, and work plans.
• Inspect track and ROW infrastructure per CPUC, FRA and internal standards.
• Coordinate with railroad operations to minimize service disruptions during maintenance.

Skills

Leadership

Supervisory experience

Reading track plans

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical or vocational training

Tools

Track inspection tools

Job description

Mendocino Railway is the owner/operator of freight and passenger railroads including the California Western Railroad (CWR) / Skunk Train which operates between Fort Bragg and Willits, California.

This Skunk Train is hiring a Roadmasterwho will be responsible for overseeing the safe maintenance, inspection, and repair of all track infrastructure across the 40-mile mainline. This leadership role ensures compliance with all applicable regulations (including those from the FRA) along with company standards to maintain the safe and efficient movement of equipment and trains across the line. This is a full-time position working onsite in Fort Bragg and Willits, CA.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)

• Oversee and perform maintenance, repairs, and inspections of track, bridges, and roadbed.
• Supervise Maintenance of Way (MOW) crews and ensure safe work practices and job performance.
• Develop, implement, and execute budgets, projects, schedules, and work plans.
• Inspect track and ROW infrastructure in accordance with CPUC, FRA and internal standards.
• Coordinate with railroad operations to minimize service disruptions during maintenance.
• Maintain inventory of track materials and equipment.
• Operate and ensure proper use of maintenance-of-way equipment and tools.
• Prepare reports and documentation related to track conditions, inspections, and repairs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or vocational training preferred.
• Minimum 4+ years of experience in track maintenance
• Leadership and supervisory experience required.
• Strong knowledge of FRA track safety standards and railroad maintenance practices.
• Ability to read and interpret track plans and construction documents.
• Pre-employment DOT drug screen and background check required prior to hiring.
• Valid driver’s license required; ability to obtain CDL is encouraged.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Familiarity with small hand and power tools.
• Ability to work independently and lead a team effectively.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and problem-solve.
• Must be reliable, punctual, and professional in appearance and demeanor.
• Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand for extended periods and walk on uneven surfaces (train platforms, gravel, etc.).
• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. safely.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, push, pull and use hand tools.
• Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments and around moving rail equipment (with provided safety training).
• Must be able to perform duties safely while on the tracks and a moving train.

BENEFITS & ADDITIONAL NOTES

• Employment is full-time and includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, U.S. Railroad Retirement, paid holidays, paid sick leave, and paid time off.

EEO Statement

Mendocino Railway is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disabled status or any other protected class.