Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY
**The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew:** operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars and engines in rail yards and on the main railroad; operates trains safely by complying with operating rules and train handling policies to transport freight in a satisfactory manner. Executes the mechanical operation of the train, train speed, and handling. Ensures clear communication with dispatcher and track authority; receives, relays, or acts upon oral, written, or radio instructions from dispatcher, yardmaster or other personnel indicating the switch movement, placement, or delivery of railroad cars and/or a train. Performs work safely, effectively, and efficiently in accordance with company policies and procedures and Federal Railroad Association rules and regulations to meet company objectives.
The Locomotive Engineer/Conductor demonstrates and adheres to the company values of: safety, honesty, ownership, respect, and teamwork to ensure successful partnerships with customers and employees that result in OmniTRAX’s continued success.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
* Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA
* Move trains safely in the yards and over roads
* Manipulate throttle and brake controls; interprets gauges and controls
* Operate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab, including applying and releasing handbrakes
* Operate track switches, inspect equipment on cars and use radio communications to control train movement
* Assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars: including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses
* Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety
* Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with train crew
* Coordinate execution of railcar switch list
* Communicate with other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio communication protocol
* Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen
* Conduct the movement of rail cars and train movements; signal crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back\-up or set and release air brakes
* Observe, interpret, and relay arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
* Operate track switches (visually checks switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties
* Read and understand the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material
* Prepare required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fill ...