Track Inspector - Baton Rouge, LA

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Watco keeps the world’s supply chain moving. The company’s short‑line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs all aim to deliver safe and efficient service. Whether working on the track or in a support‑services role, every employee is part of the same team—One Watco.

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on‑the‑job training with peer trainers
• Operations training at the Safe Performance Center in Birmingham, Alabama
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

• Inspect, unload, load, distribute, pick‑up, install cross ties, switch ties, other track material and ballast.
• Inspect, unload, distribute, load, pick‑up, install, grind, and transpose rail.
• Inspect, load, unload, distribute, pick‑up, remove, construct, maintain and repair turnouts.
• Inspect for defects, patrol, construct, install, retire, remove, surface, gauge, line and shift track.
• Inspect, protect, flag, construct, install, maintain, and repair road crossings.
• Inspect, protect, flag, construct, install, maintain, repair, paint, renew and replace bridges.
• Inspect, protect, flag, maintain, repair and construct culverts and tunnels.
• Inspect, dismantle, remove, maintain, repair and paint station facilities.
• Inspect, test, maintain, repair, construct and install scales.
• Inspect, remove, maintain, repair, construct, and install right of way, sand and snow fences.
• Inspect, construct, install, maintain, clean and paint signs.
• Cut and dispose of vegetation.
• Clean debris from switches and remove snow or other foreign materials from track infrastructure.
• Complete accurate and timely reporting as required.
• Read and accurately interpret company documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and federal and state regulations.
• Communicate professionally and effectively.
• Possess a comprehensive understanding of track authority.
• Comply with performance metrics measurements and deadlines.
• Practice safe work habits and follow company and industry policies, procedures and regulations.
• Respond promptly to any accident, incident or emergency call.
• Operate, maintain, and repair vehicles and track equipment.
• Inspect completed work to ensure quality and compliance with established track standards.
• Help, mentor, train and direct track laborers and other personnel.
• Obtain and operate under track warrants.
• Supervise restoration of track under traffic conditions.
• Read and analyze reports, blueprints, and other technical materials.
• Identify project risks and opportunities.
• Assist with the cost estimates and proposals.
• Supervise and develop work plans.
• Schedule and perform all track activities.
• Prepare inspection reports.
• Coordinate work activities with all departments as needed.
• Attend meetings and conference calls as required.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must have a Class D driver’s license.
• High school education or GED.
• 1‑year supervisory experience in railroad management or a combination of supervisory experience and training in a course in track maintenance.
• Must have passed Track Ground School, GCOR Written Test, Roadway Worker Protection Written Test, Fall Protection Written Test, Maintenance of Way Safety Written Test, MSHA/OSHA Training and Certification (if required on site), CWR Written Test, FRA Track Standards Test, Track Foreman Written Test, Track Inspection Written Test, and Manager’s Training.
• Must also be able to pass and apply the information from the FRA Track Standards Test, Track Foreman Written Test, Track Inspection Written Test, and Manager’s Training.

• Ability to recognize problems, apply common sense and understanding to carry out written and oral instructions.
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Flexibility to work a flexible schedule.
• Knowledge of and ability to apply the Roadway Protection Rules and the FRA Track Safety Standards.
• Broad understanding of railroad operations and experience operating railroad equipment.
• Basic math skills and calculation ability.
• Ability to perform duties without direct supervision.
• Familiarity with applicable governmental regulations.
• Effective people‑management skills.

• Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level
• Employment type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job Function:
  Management and Manufacturing
• Industries:
  Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage