Inspector, Maintenance​/Cleaning, Heavy Equipment Mechanic

About VLS Environmental Solutions

VLS Environmental Solutions, LLC is a recognized leader in providing sustainability solutions across North America. With more than 1,200 employees and 40+ locations, we operate through four major divisions:
Waste Services
, Railcar Services
, Marine Services
, and Railcar Cleaning & Repair Services
. Our mission is to innovate solutions that help clients meet their sustainability goals.

As a Railcar Inspector, you will perform inbound inspections, prepare shop work orders, and develop customer estimate sheets that outline repairs or modifications. You will randomly inspect in‑process cars to ensure high quality standards, review completed work from internal departments, and verify that cars meet both customer and VLS requirements.

• Maintain personal and shop safety.
• Understand and apply AAR/FRA regulations and customer requirements.
• Operate VLS estimating system for railcar inspections.
• Estimate repairs and modifications, communicating findings and schedules to customers.
• Read and interpret Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and VLS instructions.
• Ensure all work is performed safely and efficiently.
• Continuously seek ways to improve operational effectiveness.
• Assist in training new employees in inspection and repair functions.
• Report problem estimates or potential completion issues to supervisors.
• Maintain clean, organized inspection areas and gauge storage.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid railcar inspector certification or willingness to obtain one within a specified timeframe.
• Mechanical aptitude and proficiency with inspection tools.
• Knowledge of AAR and FRA regulations.
• Minimum of 2 years of railcar inspection or related experience.
• Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills.
• Valid driver’s license for rail yard travel.

• Additional certifications such as welding or other NDT credentials.
• Technical training in mechanical or railway engineering.
• Experience inspecting a variety of railcar types (tank, box, flat, etc.).
• Excellent communication skills.
• Computer literacy with inspection software and data entry.

• Pass a background, physical, and drug screening.
• Stand for extended periods; lift up to 50 lbs.
• Work in extreme temperatures and elements.
• Operate in confined spaces and at elevated heights.
• Manage exposure to fumes, chemicals, electrical shock, radiation, and vibration.
• Work near moving mechanical parts in a loud environment.
• Maintain specific vision abilities (close, distance, peripheral, depth).

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) with company matching, life and disability insurance, employee assistance programs, telemedicine, and rewards and recognition initiatives. Full details are available on request during the interview process.

VLS Environmental Solutions, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply.