Apprentice Operator I

General Summary:

Must show introductory skills in transport, operation, and service of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing railroad derailments by lifting and moving derailed railway cars and locomotives. Fulfill introductory operator’s duties on chemical remediation sites.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Sets up and operates heavy equipment.
• Drives tractor-trailer or escort vehicles.
• Services and maintains heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, and other equipment.
• Carries, handles, and detaches/attaches heavy steel chains, blocks and steel cables, and other devices.
• Climbs on and crawls under derailed railroad cars and other equipment.
• Cleans, maintains and sets-up equipment requiring use of small and large tools.
• Operates cutting torch and welding equipment.
• Utilizes various hand and power tools.
• Lifts 150 lbs. max with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects up to 50 lbs.
• Works at elevated heights on railroad cars; bridges, over water, or in water.
• Learns and complies with company policies and procedures, and safety rules.
• Learns hazardous materials handling and precautions.
• Maintains required equipment service records.
• Assures safekeeping and proper usage of company tools.
• Performs other incidental and related duties as required.

Education Certification and Licensure Requirements:

• High School degree preferred.
• One plus years work experience in same or related field.
• Class A CDL

Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to perform inspections.
• Identifies need for Maintenance inspections and knows location of specific items on equipment.
• Demonstrates proper procedures when inspecting equipment.
• Application of mechanical procedures.
• Understanding of limitations of equipment when in operation.
• Demonstrates safe handling when setting up/breaking down equipment, proper lifting techniques, proper winching techniques and proper driving techniques.

Work Schedule:

• Monday through Sunday on the job or possibly at division.
• On call for 24 hours for derailments requiring immediate response.
• 8-hours/day Monday through Friday; on call at other times for derailments requiring immediate response.
• The Response Team is to be available at all times and all hours of the day.