Rail Inspector

Position Description

PRIMARY

PURPOSE:

To inspect rail way tank cars used to transport hazardous and non-hazardous liquids. To monitor regulatory compliance of hazardous and non-hazardous material shipments by rail in accordance with company policies and procedures as well as regulatory requirements.

• Inspect all rail cars for proper placards, test dates, safety appliances, damage and defects.
• Inspect rail cars and other containers for compliance with applicable hazardous material regulations, freight car equipment and safety appliance standards.
• Inspect and review packaging, marking, labeling, shipping procedures and documentation of shipments of hazardous and non-hazardous cargos.
• Plan and carry out an itinerary of periodic inspections of the handling of hazardous materials at all rail loading areas.
• Ensure all fittings and closures are properly sealed.
• Ensure positive track protection is in place per terminal procedures.
• Ensure gates along track are closed and secure.
• Assist operations with product transfer alignments including piping, pumps and associated valves.
• Participate in investigations of unintentional releases of materials or other accidents/incidents resulting in a serious injury to person(s).
• Verbally address issues involving rail car shipments in one-on-one or group setting to audiences representing employees, management and customers.
• Ensure proper documentation is completed on all shipments including, but not limited to: proper shipping weights, seal numbers and logs.
• Complete all paperwork and perform tasks in accordance with all company policies and procedures necessary to conduct tank car, rail and vessel transfer operations, including vessel tie-up and release, moving product hoses, bolting hoses to flanges, draining hoses, and unbolting at completion of transfer.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment including but not limited to: proper storage of tools, hoses, and acid suits; cleanliness of work area; proper wear of all personal protective equipment and immediately containing and reporting any spills or unsafe conditions.
• Maintain a positive and professional atmosphere for all employees and visitors.
• Attend daily, weekly, and monthly safety meetings.
• Complete all required safety training and monthly refresher training.
• All other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education

• High School Diploma or Equivalent

EXPERIENCE / SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE

• Prior experience with federal regulations and standards governing the shipment of hazardous materials by rail, including containerization, loading, handling, documentation and placarding.
• Prior experience with rail and/or monitoring cargo transfers.
• Specific knowledge and experience necessary to perform other product transfers in a liquid handling facility.
• Working knowledge of basic EPA/FRA/DOT/OSHA requirements for work area.
• Experience operating all equipment and tools used in assigned work area.

Certifications, Licenses, Registrations

• Must possess valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record that meets company standard.
• Ability to obtain a TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card.

• Effectively communicate, orally (face to face and by telephone) and in writing, in English with coworkers, contractors, government officials and Senior Management.
• Read and understand written material (in English), including use and understanding of basic numerical calculations.
• Ability to complete HAZ-MAT, DOT, Confined Space, and Lockout/Tagout training.

• Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Must be willing to work in protected areas at heights greater than six (6) feet above ground.
• Must be able to work over water (dock).
• Must be able to reach, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl.
• Must be able to hear and smell for deficiencies or hazards.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces (inside storage tanks).
• Must be able to pass a respiratory fit test.
• Overtime may be required and is anticipated.

• Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
• Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed and required.
• Must be available to respond to call-out as assigned.
• Must be able to work with a team, take direction from supervisor, keep required work schedule, focus on attention to details, and follow work rules.

• None

Above the minimum requirements; not required but advantageous in this position:

• Previous chemical, refining, or terminal experience is preferred.
• O.S.H.A. Certification not required, but a plus.
• Prior experience in pipeline operations and/or tank farm operations a plus, but not required.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT:
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of…