Rail​/Switch Operator

Summary: This position is primarily responsible for the movement of SOP, Salt, and MgCl 2 products. Assist the Shuttle wagon Operator in the spotting, staging and preparation of rail cars in line with daily shipping and/or unloading requirements. This is accomplished through the safe and efficient work habits and effective coordination with the shuttlewagon operator, weigh master and/or plant operator. Is also responsible for the inspection, cleaning, and general care of assigned areas including tracks, cars, and associated equipment.

Position responsibilities vary considerably between Salt Plant operations and SOP Loadout operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Management reserves the right to add or modify the duties and responsibilities at any time.

• Equipment Inspection – Inspects rail cars for proper loading requirements (cleanliness) and discernible car integrity before loading and unloading processes begin.
• Moving Rail Cars – Works in conjunction with the shuttlewagon operator in the inspection and readiness of coupling devices for proper alignment during coupling and decoupling process.
• Prior to moving the car(s) removes chocks, connects air brake hoses, disengages hand brakes, and inspects track for obstacles and proper switch placement.
• Follows all safety procedures and keeps the Shuttle wagon operator informed of potential safety hazards that may occur while spotting during rail car pushes.
• Communicates the aforementioned and coupling and decoupling progress via radio to track mobile operator.
• Placement of Rail Cars – Know clearance points, proper communication for “counting down” to a couple, and proper setting of hand brakes on cars prior to the uncoupling process.
• Other Functions – Serves as the back‑up for the Shuttle wagon Operator as required to cover vacation, absences and other relief issues.
• Provides clean up on tracks.
• Responds to problems or production needs under the silos and communicates resolutions via radio to the weigh master.
• Preparation and Inspection of rail cars as measured by inspection by either Supervisor, Weigh Master, or Brine Loader
• Cars are cleaned not to exceed 30 minute maximum.
• Void of contamination per pre‑loading routine inspection.
• Free of defects as per pre-loading inspection and rail car functionality.
• No Violations of rail car safety as per routine inspection
• No equipment damage to rail cars, shuttle wagon, and/or derails from debris or improperly set derailers.
• No unsecured movements of rail cars.
• No error in required track inquires as measured by Customer Service feedback, QSI, or Supervisor review
• Car count correct.
• Car numbers correspond with actual car string.
• Report reflects car placement on proper track.
• No additional charges from railroad due to inaccurate placement of railcar.
• Inquiries completed and turned in no later than 0700.

Qualifications - External

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to carry out each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required and should be considered the minimum standard. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience
:
Must have a high school diploma and previous experience or education demonstrating the ability to monitor equipment for proper operation and perform tasks related to maintaining product quality. Previous experience operating heavy equipment or working with rail equipment is a plus.

Computer

Skills:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be PC literate and proficient with Excel, Word, Outlook, and Access to analyze and communicate information. Must be able to navigate an ERP to issue work requests and review inventory.

Competency:

Interpersonal Skills – Ability to interact effectively with others and work effectively as a member of a team.

Written Communication – Concise, complete, and well organized written communications are essential.

Planning/Organizing – Must be able to plan and organize a schedule that is conducive to position duties. Must have the ability to independently and effectively…