Tamper Operator: Precision Rail Track Maintenance

Railserve; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

401(k) with company match

Safety shoe reimbursement

Holiday pay

Vacation

Job summary

Railserve in Indiana seeks a dependable Tamper Operator to operate rail-mounted tamping machines, align and compact ballast, and maintain a smooth rail surface for safe operations.

The role requires travel to various job sites, outdoor work in all weather, and strict adherence to AREMA and FRA safety standards. Minimum experience in railroad maintenance preferred; CDL may be required depending on jurisdiction.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum 1–2 years of experience in railroad maintenance or operating rail-bound machinery.
• Valid driver's license; CDL may be required depending on jurisdiction.
• Certification for railway equipment operation (e.g., FRA-compliant training or company-specific certification).
• Strong understanding of track geometry and alignment principles.
• Safety-first mindset and knowledge of railway safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Operate rail-mounted tamping machines to align, level, and compact track ballast beneath railway ties.
• Follow track maintenance schedules and procedures under the direction of the Track Supervisor.
• Adjust and calibrate tamping equipment for specific rail conditions and tolerances.
• Read and interpret track diagrams, work orders, and machine settings.
• Conduct routine pre-operation inspections of tamping machines to ensure proper function and safety.
• Perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting of tampers.
• Collaborate with other maintenance-of-way personnel including surfacing crews, welders, and track inspectors.
• Report unsafe conditions, track defects, or equipment malfunctions to appropriate personnel.
• Maintain accurate daily logs and production records.

Skills

Rail tamping machines

Track geometry

Safety protocols

Reading track diagrams

Maintenance knowledge

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Railserve in Indiana seeks a dependable Tamper Operator to operate rail-mounted tamping machines, align and compact ballast, and maintain a smooth rail surface for safe operations.

The role requires travel to various job sites, outdoor work in all weather, and strict adherence to AREMA and FRA safety standards. Minimum experience in railroad maintenance preferred; CDL may be required depending on jurisdiction.