MOW Laborer/Equipment Operator

Department:               Maintenance of Way

Classification:             Non-Exempt

Reports To:                 Section/Surface Crew Foreman, Manager and Assistant Manager

Updated:                     5/20/2025

Job Description Summary / Objective

To operate railroad MOW equipment in a safe, efficient manner with minimal supervision. To perform repair to track, switches and structures.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function

•                 To repair track, switches and structures following FRA specifications as directed by Foreman.

•                 Perform MOW activities as required.

•                 Operate significant railroad equipment and tools, such as boomtruck, front end loader, tamper, regulator, plow, hydraulic  tools, hand tools, etc. safely and efficiently.

•                 To maintain equipment daily to minimize down time and be responsible for proper care of railroad property, such as company vehicles, tools and materials.

•                 To be familiar with and comply with FRA, General Code of Operating rules and On-Track Safety regulations. Must have all proper instructions and books (such as timetables and special instructions) required in their possession.

•                 Promote safety following FRA and RRVW rules, regulations, policies and practices.

•                 To be vigilant of track and structures observing conditions which may impact the safety of operations.

•                 To perform and assist section personnel when performing general track work as required to keep conditions safe for operation.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday 0700 – 1500. Occasional on call, evening, and weekend work may be required as job duties demand.

Travel Requirements

Travel is required for this position. Travel to location of work may be required.

Required Education and Experience

•                 Education equivalent to high school diploma.

•                 Must be willing to work odd hours and weekends if necessary.

•                 Must possess a valid driver’s license, be insurable to drive company vehicles and acquire/maintain a Class A CDL and DOT Health Card.

•                 Must possess good mechanical aptitude.

•                 Must be SAFETY oriented.

•                 Must pass required FRA, General Code of Operating Rules and On-Track Safety examinations.

•                 Required to travel with overnight stays

•                 Position subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

Preferred Education and Experience

Experience in all phases of railroad maintenance of way operations preferred.

Physical Requirements

•                 Physical strength and stamina to work rigorously in the outdoors.

•                 Considerable amounts of bending, twisting, lifting, walking and working on uneven terrain, climbing onto and around equipment, throwing switches.

•                  Strength needed to throw a switch, 50 lbs.

•                  Must be able to swing 12# maul to pound track materials including track spikes, anchors, bolts, etc.

•                  Must be able to lift and carry heavy objects up to 50 lbs., occasionally lift up to 100 lbs.

•                  Must be able to shovel ballast and snow.

•                  Strength to operate tools of leverage (lifting/nipping bars, track wrenches, claw bar, etc.) to remove spikes, tighten bolts, lift rail and ties, etc.

•                  Frequently in and out of hi-rail truck during the workday. When truck is on rail, may be an additional 12” of height to step onto running board to enter truck from ballast roadbed area.

Environmental Requirements

This job operates in an outdoor environment. This role will routinely be exposed to air/water pollution, extreme temperature changes, frequent changes into/out of personal protection equipment, intense heat exposure, noisy/loud environment, penetrating cold exposure, and severe weather exposure.

Cognitive Requirements

Ability to understand complex instructions, concentrate and execute tasks independently, analyze problems, make decisions, work as a team, and perform tasks in small or restrictive spaces.

AAP/EEO Statement

RRVW is an EOE Employer and in compliance with EO 14173, EO 13496, and protects Veterans and Individual with Disabilities in compliance with VEVRAA and Section 503. We also protect all employees under Minnesota Human Rights Act and Statutes 43A.19 and 43A.191 and make reasonable accommodations.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Acknowledgment and Signature

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the job description for MOW Laborer/Equipment Operator. I understand that this document does not constitute a contract.

Employee signature: _______________________________ Date: ___________________