Switchman

Excel Group; Plaquemine (LA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with employer matching

Short and long-term disability

Job summary

Excel Group in Plaquemine, LA is seeking a full-time Railcar Switchman to coordinate railcar movements in the yard and support loading/unloading operations. The role requires safe, precise switching, good communication with engineers and yard staff, and the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma or equivalent, prior rail yard experience, and a TWIC card.

Qualifications

• TWIC card required.
• Experience in rail yard operations or as a railcar switchman required.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in all weather.

Responsibilities

• Operate rail yard equipment to switch, align, and move railcars for loading, unloading, or assembling trains.
• Communicate with engineers, yardmasters, and other team members to ensure smooth railcar movements.
• Oversee the operations of track switches to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad.
• Apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties.
• Perform coupling and uncoupling of railcars.
• Inspect railcars and tracks for safety hazards and report issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies.
• Maintain proper documentation for all railcar movements and activities.
• Handle emergency situations such as derailments in accordance with procedures.
• Meet goals set by site management by managing equipment and staff, reporting results, and recommending solutions.

Skills

TWIC card

Rail yard operations

Teamwork

Communication

Outdoor work

Safety practices

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

EXCEL is currently seeking a full-time Railcar Switchman that will have the opportunity to grow within the site and build a long-term, stable career. Our jobsite is in the Plaquemine, LA area. In this role, you will be responsible for coordinating the movement of railcars within a rail yard, ensuring proper placement and alignment for loading and unloading operations. This is an essential role in maintaining the flow of rail operations safely and efficiently.

Responsibilities:

• Operate rail yard equipment to switch, align, and move railcars for loading, unloading, or assembling trains.
• Communicate with engineers, yardmasters, and other team members to ensure smooth railcar movements.
• Oversee the operations of track switches (visually check switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties
• Perform coupling and uncoupling of railcars.
• Inspect railcars and tracks for safety hazards and report issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies.
• Maintain proper documentation for all railcar movements and activities.
• Handle emergency situations, such as derailments or other incidents, in accordance with company procedures.
• Meets the goals set by site management by managing equipment and staff, reporting results, and recommending solutions.

Job Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• TWIC card is required.
• Previous experience in rail yard operations or as a railcar switchman is required.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a physically demanding environment.
• Knowledge of railroad safety practices and regulations.

We offer a rich benefit package including: health, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family healthy; a 401(k) plan with employer matching; supplementary benefits including short and long-term disability; access to counseling services and mental wellness programs; a salary that reflects your experience and performance, and much more!

Job Type: Full-time

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.