GSMR Equipment Operator

Job Title: Equipment Operator

Location: Bryson City, NC

Department: Maintenance of Way

Reports To: Gang Foreman, Roadmaster and/or Asst. Roadmaster

Compensation: $20-26 depending on experience and certifications

Summary: The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining various types of railroad maintenance equipment to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the scenic railroad tracks. This role involves working alongside track maintenance crews, performing tasks related to track construction, maintenance, and repair.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Equipment Operation: Operate and maintain track maintenance equipment such as tampers, ballast regulators, rail saws, spike pullers, and other specialized machinery.
• Track Maintenance: Assist in the construction, maintenance, and repair of railroad tracks, including tasks such as tamping ballast, aligning and surfacing track, and replacing ties and rails.
• Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety regulations and procedures, ensuring the safe operation of equipment and the safety of crew members.
• Inspection: Conduct routine inspections of equipment to ensure proper functioning and perform necessary maintenance and repairs.
• Support Crew: Work collaboratively with track maintenance crews to complete projects efficiently and effectively.
• Emergency Response: Respond to emergency situations promptly, operating equipment to perform necessary repairs and ensure the safety of the railroad.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of equipment usage, maintenance, and repairs.
• Environmental Maintenance: Assist in maintaining the scenic beauty of the railroad by removing brush, snow, vegetation, and other obstructions from the right-of-way.

Work Environment:

• Work on and off the train in varied terrain in all weather during daylight and dark hours. 
• Must be available for duty: weekends, nights, and off hours in the event of track emergencies and/or special or emergency inspections.
• Ability to perform continuous heavy labor in all weather conditions.
• Varied schedule throughout the year dictated by train schedule and maintenance operations. 
• Schedule is typically Monday through Thursday, 10-hour days with rotating on-call weekends. 

Education, Skill and Work Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment
•  High school diploma or GED required; additional technical training or certifications in equipment operation preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude; ability to interpret and understand FRA regulations and safety standards.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, work in all weather conditions, and perform physically demanding tasks. Must pass pre-employment physical evaluation and ongoing physical evaluations. 
• Licenses: Valid driver's license required; CDL a plus.
• Schedule: This position requires work on days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Overtime hours may be required.
• Environment: Work outdoors in varying weather conditions; exposure to loud noise and heavy machinery.
• Safety Awareness: Observes all safety and security procedures; determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; reports potentially unsafe conditions; uses equipment and materials properly.
• Dependability: Follows through on commitments; consistently at work on time.
• Professionalism: Approaches others in a tactful manner; reacts well under pressure; displays integrity by holding oneself personally accountable.

Salary : $20 - $26