Job Description
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.