Switching Specialist

Role

This position is responsible for switching and railcar movement via coordination with locomotive or track mobile operator. The position directs the locomotive operator through a set of radio and hand signals to move and place rolling stock throughout the CFRS facility.

• Learn and adhere to all CFRS safety procedures.
• Learn the basic flow and logistics of railroad industry and repair business.
• Successfully complete the CFRS switching training/safety policy program.
• Keep work area clean and orderly in compliance with CFRS, OSHA, and environmental regulations.
• Follow written and verbal directions while working effectively in a team environment.
• Ensure the safe and efficient movement of rolling stock.
• Create written reports of all cars handled to and from the railroad, indicating car, condition, proper identification of cars, and time received.
• Couple and uncouple rolling stock, throw switches, set and release hand brakes, and lace railcar brake connections.
• Facilitate and comply with proper air brake charging technique.
• Signal locomotive/track mobile operator for switching and spotting of cars throughout the facility in accordance with supervision instructions.
• Coordinate with shop leads or supervisors to spot cars in work departments.
• Identify rail non‑conformities and report and/or repair them.
• Perform minor repairs such as tightening rail spikes and adjusting switches.
• Understand and follow site‑specific AAR‑FRA rules.
• Maintain and update logbooks and timesheets daily.
• Perform basic locomotive/track mobile and track maintenance and assist with daily equipment inspection.
• Fuel and lubricate equipment as necessary.
• Set up and operate various hand and power tools.
• Follow work instructions and work within a self‑directed team.
• Use proper switching commands and language.
• Know facility layout to serve as a locomotive/track mobile operator and switchman as facility demand dictates.
• Operate locomotive and switch mobile to move, switch, and spot rolling stock.
• Verify locomotive/track mobile daily to ensure engine is in safe operating condition and complete inspection sheet.
• Receive, interpret, and act in accordance with Switch Technician signaling (hand and/or radio).
• Operate locomotive in congested areas where a high degree of attention and care is required to prevent accidents or facility damage.
• Perform re‑railing of cars that derail within the plant due to yard‑rail or railcar defective conditions.
• Complete the position’s Education/Formal Training requirements.
• Wear PPE in appropriate areas.

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Successfully pass FRA Railroad Locomotive Safety Standards and Locomotive Inspection, and Basic Principles of Track Maintenance skills courses with an 80% or higher score.
• Demonstrated common‑sense understanding to carry out written, oral, or diagram instructions.
• Able to solve problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Read, analyze, and interpret business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
• Perform basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) in all units of measure.

Work will be performed outdoors and indoors, on and around heavy equipment. Overtime and/or varied shifts may be required. Tasks include standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, reaching, climbing, crawling, crouching in strained and awkward positions for extended periods. Work may involve heights up to 20ft and lifting or carrying equipment up to 50lbs. Medical certification to wear a respirator for prolonged periods is required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

The Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, including HSA and FSA accounts with employer contributions toward HSA.
• 100% company‑paid disability and life insurance plans.
• 401(k) plan with company match plus additional end‑of‑year funding.
• Paid vacation time (tiered based on tenure), personal time, sick days, and summer half days for certain roles.
• 10 paid holidays annually.
• Paid parental leave for new parents, plus a monetary gift toward a 529 education account.
• Confidential Employee Assistance Program.
• Training and tuition reimbursement.
• Community service opportunities, charity match opportunities, employee recognition programs, and celebrations.