Railroad Worker in Charge

IEA, Inc. is seeking qualified and experienced Roadway Workers In Charge (WIC) to provide essential on-track safety services on Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) rail property.

As a Roadway Worker In Charge (WIC), you will be responsible for protecting roadway workers, contractors, and equipment from the hazards of moving trains, locomotives, and on-track machinery. This role ensures compliance with DART's Roadway Worker Protection (RWP) program and industry safety standards. WICs will work on active rail lines, coordinating with DART dispatch, train crews, and work groups to establish safe working conditions.

This is a contract or on-call position ideal for safety-focused professionals in the railroad or transit industry. Work may involve irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, with potential travel within the Dallas–Fort Worth region.

• Establish and maintain on-track safety for roadway work groups by setting up working limits, foul time, train approach warnings, or other protective measures in accordance with DART's RWP program and federal guidelines.
• Conduct thorough job safety briefings for all personnel on-site, covering on-track safety procedures, potential hazards, emergency protocols, and communication methods.
• Monitor track conditions, approaching trains, and work activities to ensure workers remain clear of live tracks and equipment.
• Communicate effectively with DART train dispatchers, engineers, and supervisors via radio, phone, or electronic systems to coordinate train movements and grant permissions within working limits.
• Place and remove safety devices such as flags, derails, locks, and warning signs as required.
• Inspect work sites for compliance with safety rules, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to good faith challenge procedures.
• Document all activities, including job briefings, incident reports, daily work logs, and electronic forms for submission to DART and regulatory authorities.
• Respond to emergencies, incidents, or rule violations promptly, ensuring the safety of all personnel and reporting as required.
• Remain immediately accessible to protected workers at all times and enforce accessibility procedures.
• Participate in ongoing safety audits, training refreshers, and compliance monitoring to uphold DART's safety standards.

To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Education:
  
  High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Experience:
  
  At least 2 years of relevant experience in railroad or transit operations, preferably in maintenance of way (MOW), flagging, or safety roles with a Class 1 railroad, regional short line, transit system (e.g., DART or similar), state DOT rail division, railroad supplier, contractor, or consultant.

• Successful completion of DART-specific Roadway Worker Protection (RWP) training or Light Railway Worker Protection Program (LRWPP), including demonstrated proficiency in on-track safety rules, working limits establishment, train approach warnings, and territory-specific procedures.
• Evidence of initial and periodic (annual) recertification, including recorded examinations and demonstrated proficiency in supervised on-track safety scenarios.

• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to pass a Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). examination, including vision, hearing, and mobility tests.
• Successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screen and background check, including criminal history and employment verification.

• Strong knowledge of rail operating rules and physical characteristics of DART rail territories.
• Excellent communication skills, including proficiency in radio protocols, job briefings, and electronic reporting tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, mobile apps for safety tracking).
• Physical capability to perform demanding tasks, such as walking on uneven ballast, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in extreme weather conditions for extended periods.
• Ability to work independently or in teams, remain alert during long shifts, and…