Switchperson

Switchpersons with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a company that promotes a strong safety culture, this opportunity is for you!

Cando provides specialized rail operating services. We provide a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, and more. With over 50 operations, we are the 3 largest locomotive fleet in Canada and growing!

Cando Advantages

• Work Life Balance
• Cando’s Technical and Leadership Training Programs
• Award Winning Safety Culture
• Group Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, and Long-Term Disability Insurances
• Health & Dental Benefits including voluntary options
• Expanding in the US and we welcome you to come grow with us!

Job Description

Switchpersons with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services. Working in a fast-paced, customer-oriented environment, the Switching crew must work well in teams to maximize efficiency and safety, while demonstrating a strong initiative, and organizational skills.

Roles & Responsibilities

The incumbent works in a team environment to provide safe and effective switching services. Responsibilities include:

• Ensuring safe operation of the locomotive and train movements including conducting clear and concise job briefings.
• Applying rules, special instructions, and switching procedures while operating as a locomotive engineer or grounds person. This includes but is not limited to working as a team to operate switches and derails, coupling and uncoupling rail cars, managing air hoses, and applying or releasing handbrakes to perform necessary rail car switching maneuvers for the customer.
• Providing protection of train, track, and equipment.
• Performing plant and equipment inspections, including air brake tests.
• Complying with all applicable operating rules, switching procedures, regulations imposed by government, the customer, and/or Cando; practicing and promoting safe work habits.
• Keeping the interior of the locomotive safe, clean, and tidy.
• Completing daily inspection and testing of the locomotive brakes and safety devices.
• Completing daily reports, daily logs, and other reports deemed necessary for the customer or Cando.
• Actively participating with the team and providing excellent customer service while promoting a superior company image.
• Participating in training or company initiatives as required.

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities

• Excellent teamwork skills and strong customer service skills.
• Ability to read and write general documentation including safety briefings, policy and procedure manuals, and switching lists.
• Physically fit including the ability to pull self up and down from a railcar on a continuous basis, able to lift and twist air hoses, able to secure rail car brakes, and operate both derails and switches effectively.
• Knowledge with technology and computer systems with a willingness to use Excel and Outlook on a daily basis.
• Ability to obtain necessary certification, and pass Drug/Alcohol and medical clearances to perform the role.

Education & Experience

• Experience as a Locomotive Operator and/or Switchperson is preferred.
• Previous experience in a customer oriented environment is preferred.

Note: This description is not intended to limit the assignment of work or be construed as a complete list of the many duties to be performed by the incumbent. The qualifications are provided so interested candidates understand of the level of expertise required in this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.