Switchman at Progress Rail Services Alliance, NE

Progress Rail Services; Alliance (NE); On-site; USD 28,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Salary

401(k) with company match

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

Paid Vacation

Paid Holidays

Job summary

Progress Rail in Alliance, NE seeks a Freight Car Repair professional to safely switch tracks, read blueprints, and coordinate with yard crews. The role is hourly, production-focused and requires strong communication and mechanical aptitude.

You will operate track switches, read instructions, perform maintenance, and adapt to varied weather conditions, with a comprehensive benefits package and equal opportunity employment.

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and ability to read precision instruments.
• Ability to read technical drawings and blueprints.
• Proven ability to work safely with minimal supervision.
• Experience operating ATVs in varied weather.
• Strong communication skills and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Communicate by radio with operators and supervisors.
• Operate track switches and manage rail movements.
• Read and follow written and oral work instructions.
• Prioritize workload according to shop needs.
• Perform preventative maintenance on equipment.

Skills

Radio communication

Track switching operation

Reading gauges/blueprints

Safety compliance

Team coordination

Education

Mechanical aptitude

Read precision instruments

Read blueprints/technical drawings

Work with minimal supervision

ATV operation experience

Strong communication skills

Weather adaptability

Varied surfaces experience

Job description

12187BR Job Purpose: Switcher is responsible for the safe and precise movement of railcars, locomotives and other rail equipment in the facility and rail yard. Operates track switches and relays communication affecting the movement of such equipment. Req ID: 12187BR Work Location Options: Alliance City: Alliance State:: Nebraska Company Description: Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting‑edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.

Key Job Elements:

• Communicate by radio with operator, ground man, supervisors/lead;
• Operation of track switches;
• Read and understand written and oral work instructions;
• Able to prioritize workload based on shop needs;
• Perform all duties and responsibilities in compliance with PRS safety policies.

Education / Training:

• Mechanical aptitude;
• Read precision instruments and gauges;
• Read and understand technical drawings and blueprints;
• Proven ability to work safely with minimal supervision;
• Able to complete work functions with minimal direction;
• Previous experience of ATV operation;
• Must have strong communication skills;
• Able to work a variety of weather conditions such as extreme heat and cold, rain, snow, and / or humidity;
• Work on varied surfaces (concrete floors, gravel, rail car floors).

Qualifications and Experience:

• Couple/uncouple freight cars;
• Lace and apply air brakes to cars;
• Pull inbound rail cars and push outbound rail cars;
• Throw switches to change direction of tracks;
• Apply hand brakes to cars;
• Thoroughly complete inbound sheets;
• Maintain weeds in and around rail yard by mowing and/or spraying with push or hand trimmer, deck mower operated by tractor or ATV, and ATV sprayer;
• Perform preventative maintenance on the locomotive and track.

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job‑related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.

Benefits:

• ** Competitive Salary 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
• Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Education Assistance Program
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
• Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
• Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs
• *Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
• **Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

Job Category: Production - Hourly

PRS Facility Location: Alliance, NE Freight Car Rep - 083