Hi‑Rail Grapple Operations Specialist (Rail Maintenance)

Picture a workday that shifts between roadway and railway. You arrive at the yard, run a thorough inspection of a dual\-mode hi\-rail grapple truck, and roll out to a track site. You switch to rail mode, maneuver the boom, and position ties, debris, or ballast with precision. The radio crackles with updates from the foreman; you coordinate, log your moves, and keep the site safe and efficient from first lift to last placement. ### **Reporting Line** Reports to: Operations Manager or Foreman ### **What You’ll Do** * **Vehicle Operation:** Drive and operate a hi\-rail equipped grapple truck on public roads and on\-track; engage/disengage rail gear safely. * **Material Handling:** Use the grapple arm to lift, move, and set heavy materials for railroad maintenance, construction, and repair. * **Maintenance \& Inspection:** Perform walk\-arounds, pre/post\-trip checks, and basic upkeep to keep truck and attachments in safe working order. * **Safety Compliance:** Follow all site, rail, and DOT safety protocols; maintain situational awareness in active rail and construction areas. * **Documentation:** Record inspections, work performed, loads moved, and hours as required. * **Collaboration:** Work closely with foremen, operators, and ground crews to execute tasks efficiently. ### **Qualifications** * **Education \& Experience:** High School / GED; hands\-on experience with diesel and heavy equipment systems is valuable. * **Licenses \& Certifications:** Driver's License; Current CDL License. * **Skills:** Equipment Troubleshooting; Equipment Diagnostics \& Troubleshooting; Heavy Material Handling; Loading and Unloading Vehicles; Lift Truck Repair \& Maintenance; Crane \& Lifting Equipment Systems. ### **Tools \& Machines You’ll Use** * Hi\-Rail Truck * Boom Truck * Boom Crane ### **Physical Requirements** * Lift and move 50\+ pounds regularly. * Work in rail yards, construction sites, and roadways across varying weather conditions. * Operate machinery for extended periods and perform manual tasks as needed. ### **Work Environment** * Primarily outdoors with exposure to noise, dust, and typical rail/construction conditions. * Travel may be required based on project locations. ### **Scheduling \& Additional Notes** * Overtime, night shifts, and weekend work may be required depending on project needs. ### **Compliance** The operator must be willing to undergo periodic drug testing and background checks as required by the company and industry regulations.