Assistant Operator

Job Description

As an Assistant Operator with our Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) Team, you will work as part of a two‑person crew to inspect America’s rail infrastructure. The RFD team inspects the steel tracks for internal defects not usually found by visual examination, helping keep our infrastructure safe by reducing derailments caused by track defects.

Wabtec Corporation is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value‑added services for freight and transit rail as well as the mining, marine, and industrial markets.

You will work alongside a Chief Operator and contribute to critical rail flaw detection missions across the United States.

As a Rail Flaw Detection Group member you will be responsible for the safe operation and care of Rail Inspection vehicles, adjusting track inspection speeds, communicating about upcoming track features, flagging defects, and maintaining the ultrasonic testing carriage and components.

• Minimum high school diploma or GED.
• One or more years of professional driver experience is preferred.
• Good driving habits and experience with larger trucks.
• Some mechanical ability/knowledge of basic hand tools.
• General computer skills, knowledge of Office 365 and Microsoft Windows.
• Willing to be away from home for an extended period; this role requires frequent and extended travel (~60%).
• Previous railroad experience is a plus.
• Must be a team player and willing to do what it takes to make the customer happy in a safe and ethical manner.

• Extensive travel within the continental United States, often for several months at a time.
• Conduct DOT vehicle inspection checks before and after each trip.
• Drive rail inspection vehicles on the road and on the rail in support of rail flaw detection activities.
• Maintain and submit accurate electronic driver logs, fuel reports, and other required documentation.
• Assist the Chief Operator during testing activities.
• Maintain the rail inspection vehicle’s test carriage.
• Mark defective rails with permanent marking pens, spray paint, and flagging tape.
• Perform light housekeeping duties to keep a clean work environment.
• Partner with the Chief Operator to maintain 5S.
• Grease, lubricate, and tighten bolts, and repair or have repaired defective parts on the ultrasonic testing carriage as necessary.
• Maintain accurate business expense records.
• Maintain the vehicle’s inventory by submitting monthly inventory and maintenance reports following specified guidelines.

This role begins pay at $22 per hour.

Work is primarily light duty in an enclosed, climate‑controlled vehicle, but requires the ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 20 pounds regularly, and in some tasks up to 50 pounds. The position requires sitting, standing, walking, and using hands and fingers to handle tools or controls. You must be willing to work in all weather conditions and be on short notice.

Use of PPE such as safety glasses, hard hats, safety vests, leather gloves, and safety toe boots is required.

A drug screen and fitness‑for‑duty test may be required before employment becomes official.

Wabtec is committed to equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, or protected veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

The salary rate for this role is currently $0-0. The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands, and location. The base pay range is subject to change. More information on benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, is available on  Other benefits may include an annual bonus if eligible.

At Wabtec, it’s not just about a job – it’s about the impact you make. When our people come together, we expand the possible by continuously improving what we do for our clients and each other. If you’re ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.