Tamper/Regulator Operator

Rio Grande Pacific Transit Group; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Rio Grande Pacific Transit Group, a Rio Grande Pacific Corporation company, seeks a Tamper/Regulator Operator to support track maintenance and construction. You will operate tampers, regulators, and related MOW equipment to maintain track alignment and ballast conditions.

You must safely perform inspections, execute basic maintenance, and coordinate with MOW crews while complying with all safety rules and procedures. This is a field role with varying hours, including nights or weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• Experience operating railroad surfacing, tamping, regulating, or similar MOW equipment.
• Knowledge of basic track surfacing, ballast, alignment, and track geometry.
• Ability to perform physical labor outdoors and operate equipment safely.

Responsibilities

• Operate tampers, ballast regulators, and other on-track equipment.
• Surface, align, level, and maintain track to specifications.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance.
• Coordinate with track crews and other operators during maintenance work.
• Follow safety requirements and report concerns.

Skills

Railroad equipment operation

Safety-conscious

Physical stamina

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Track geometry basics

Equipment inspection

Job description

Rio Grande Pacific Transit Group, a Rio Grande Pacific Corporation company, delivers rail operations, maintenance, and infrastructure services for passenger rail and transit systems. Backed by decades of railroad experience, our teams bring practical field knowledge, responsive service, and a strong commitment to safety and reliability.From Maintenance of Way and rail operations to specialized support services, Rio Grande Pacific Transit Group works alongside transit agencies to keep critical rail systems operating safely and efficiently. Our employees are part of a growing organization with opportunities to build long-term careers while supporting essential transportation infrastructure.

Job Summary

The Tamper/Regulator Operator is responsible for operating railroad surfacing equipment in support of track maintenance, rehabilitation, and construction activities. This position operates tampers, regulators, and other assigned Maintenance of Way equipment to maintain proper track alignment, elevation, and ballast conditions. The Tamper/Regulator Operator also performs equipment inspections, basic maintenance, and general MOW duties as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate tampers, ballast regulators, and other assigned on-track equipment.
• Surface, align, level, and maintain railroad track to required specifications.
• Distribute, regulate, and shape ballast during surfacing operations.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and pre-operation checks.
• Perform routine maintenance and identify equipment issues or needed repairs.
• Coordinate with MOW crews and other equipment operators during track maintenance activities.
• Assist with track maintenance, construction, and repair activities as needed.
• Maintain equipment and work areas in a safe and organized condition.
• Follow railroad, company, and job-site safety requirements.
• Perform other Maintenance of Way duties as assigned.
• Report any concerns that cannot be resolved onsite and may require additional assistance.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license.
• Previous experience operating railroad surfacing, tamping, regulating, or similar Maintenance of Way equipment.
• Knowledge of basic track surfacing, ballast, alignment, and track geometry principles.
• Ability to safely operate and perform basic maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Ability to perform physical labor and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to work safely around active railroad tracks and heavy equipment.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, overtime, and emergency assignments as needed.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required railroad and equipment qualifications.