At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspect, repair, and maintain railroad tracks to ensure safe operations.
- Company: Join Watco, a leader in keeping the supply chain moving with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy paid training, leadership programs, and an award-winning workplace culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital industry, gain hands-on experience, and work outdoors.
- Qualifications: High school diploma or GED; must be 18+ and able to lift heavy loads.
- Other info: Valid driver's license required; CDL must be obtained.
Birmingham, Alabama, 35224 United States
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference. Keep the world’s supply chain moving. That’s what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you’re at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there’s one thread that ties everyone together. We’re all on the same team. One Watco.
Here’s what you can expect from Watco:
- Award-winning culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
- Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
- Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
Description: The Railroad Track Labor position will be required to safely and efficiently inspect, repair, and maintain the railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service to our customers. This is a manual labor position, which requires that the individual becomes proficient in the following skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Inspect, unload, load, distribute, pick-up, install cross ties, switch ties, other track material and ballast.
- Inspect, unload, distribute, load, pick-up, install, grind, and transpose rail.
- Inspect, load, unload, distribute, pick-up, remove, construct, maintain and repair turnouts.
- Inspect, patrol, construct, install, retire, remove, surface, gauge, line and shift track.
- Inspect, protect, flag, construct, install, maintain, and repair road crossings.
- Inspect, protect, flag, construct, install, maintain, repair, paint, renew and replace bridges.
- Inspect, protect, flag, maintain, repair and construct culverts and tunnels.
- Inspect, dismantle, remove, maintain, repair and paint station facilities.
- Inspect, test, maintain, repair, construct and install scales.
- Inspect, remove, maintain, repair, construct, and install right of way, sand and snow fences.
- Inspect, construct, install, maintain, clean and paint signs.
- Cut and dispose of vegetation.
- Clean debris from switches.
- Remove snow or other foreign materials from track infrastructure.
- Accurate and timely reporting as required.
- Read and accurately interpret company documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and federal and state regulations.
- Communicate professionally and effectively.
- Must acquire a comprehensive understanding of track authority.
- Comply with performance metrics measurements and deadlines.
- Practice safe work habits and follow company and industry policies, procedures and regulations.
- Respond promptly to any accident, incident or emergency call.
- Read gauges, precision measuring instruments, schematics and maintenance manuals 100% of the time.
- Perform other duties that may be assigned.
Education and Experience:
- High school education or general education (GED) or 3 to 6 months job-related experience; or equivalent of education and experience.
- Must be 18 years or older.
Certificates and Licenses:
- The team member must possess a valid driver’s license with no restrictions.
- CDL is Required (or must be obtained).
- The team member must be able to pass Track Ground School, GCOR Written Test, Roadway Worker Protection Written Test, Fall Protection Written Test, Maintenance of Way Safety Written Test, MSHA/OSHA Training and Certification (if required on site).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Must have the ability to apply common sense and understanding to carry out written and oral instructions.
- Must have the ability to write legibly.
- Must be able to perform duties that require heavy lifting.
- Must be willing to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Must be able to have a flexible work schedule.
- Must have the ability to recognize problems.
- Must have knowledge of Roadway Protection Rules.
- Must have a broad understanding of railroad operations.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Track Laborer - Birmingham, AL employer: Watco Transloading
Contact Detail:
Watco Transloading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Track Laborer - Birmingham, AL
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Track Laborer. Understanding the tasks such as inspecting and maintaining track infrastructure will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in the rail industry. They can provide insights into the company culture at Watco and what they look for in candidates, which can give you an edge.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss safety protocols and your understanding of Roadway Protection Rules. Showing that you prioritise safety can set you apart from other candidates.
β¨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors. This role requires heavy lifting and adaptability to weather conditions, so demonstrating your readiness for these challenges is key.
We think you need these skills to ace Track Laborer - Birmingham, AL
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Track Laborer. Familiarise yourself with the essential duties listed in the job description to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience related to manual labour or rail work. Mention specific skills that align with the job requirements, such as heavy lifting, outdoor work, or knowledge of safety regulations.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Explain why you want to work for Watco and how your skills and experiences make you a great fit for the Track Laborer position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Watco Transloading
β¨Know Your Safety Protocols
Since the role involves working with heavy machinery and in potentially hazardous environments, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with safety protocols. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise safety in your work and any relevant training you've completed.
β¨Demonstrate Physical Readiness
This position requires heavy lifting and outdoor work in various weather conditions. During the interview, express your physical readiness for the job and share any previous experiences that showcase your ability to handle physically demanding tasks.
β¨Understand Railroad Operations
Having a broad understanding of railroad operations will set you apart. Brush up on basic railroad terminology and operations, and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to maintaining and repairing track infrastructure.
β¨Show Your Team Spirit
Watco emphasises teamwork, so highlight your ability to work collaboratively. Share examples from past experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team, especially in challenging situations.