Outbound Inspector

Job Summary

The Outbound Inspector is responsible for inspecting completed rail cars for accuracy and conformance. This role ensures that rail cars are in compliance with industry, regulatory, and owner standards. The inspector audits shop work orders and customer estimate sheets, outlines repairs and/or modifications that meet customer, AAR/FRA, and VLS requirements, and verifies that high quality standards are met.

• Responsible for the safety of themselves and others in the shop.
• Know and understand AAR/FRA requirements.
• Can reference and understand customer requirements.
• Is familiar, understands, and can operate VLS estimating system (Digital Rail).
• Inspect repaired cars to ensure all AAR, FRA, and Customer requirements are satisfied.
• Compare the work performed to the Work Order and report findings on applicable forms.
• Review Work Order and all applicable forms for accuracy and completeness.
• Perform a variety of duties as assigned such as analyzing drawings, performing inspections, assuring proper stenciling of cars, and other special duties which may be assigned.
• Reads and understands Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Interprets VLS instructions, customer requirements, and AAR/FRA Field Manual guidelines.
• Performs all work in a safe and efficient manner.
• Continually looking and suggesting ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the overall operation.
• Responsible for housekeeping and orderly storage of gauges used in the inspection function
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• A minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in rail car inspection.
• Strong attention to detail in identifying potential issues or safety hazards.
• Knowledge of Regulations:
  Familiarity with safety standards and regulations related to rail car inspection, including AAR (Association of American Railroads) and FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) guidelines.
• Experience inspecting a wide variety of rail car types (e.g., tank cars, flat cars, and hoppers).
• Proficiency in identifying mechanical problems and using inspection tools effectively.
• Ability to achieve Visual Testing Level II within the specified time frame required.
• Able to read and comprehend basic drawings and scope of work.
• Must possess basic math skills, addition, subtraction.
• Ability to clearly report findings and collaborate with maintenance and operations teams.
• Familiarity with inspection software, data entry, and report generation.
• Must be able to pass a physical, drug screen, and background check.
• Must be able to work M-F 6:30am-4:00pm and overtime to include weekends as needed.
• Must be able to work in various elements indoors/outdoors.

• Completion of vocational or technical courses related to mechanical systems, railway engineering, or related fields strongly.
• AWS Certified welding inspector or similar certification.

At VLS, employees are valued through first‑class benefits and resources centered on a proper work‑life balance.

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance – Based on each employee’s need, we offer various high quality, low‑premium medical, dental and vision plans, which include our first‑in‑class concierge service (available in Spanish) and 2nd MD Offering.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Healthcare Saving Accounts (HSA) – Set aside pre‑tax money to use toward your health care spending. VLS provides an employer contribution to all HSA accounts.
• Time Off – We offer 11 company‑paid holidays, in addition to our paid time off and voluntary time‑off plans.
• Employee Assistance Program – 24/7 assistance and counseling services that are 100% confidential and free to all employees and their dependents.
• Telemedicine – All employees and dependents receive free virtual visits by licensed practitioners any time, any day, including holidays.
• 401(k) – Generous 401(k) matching program after 90 days of employment. VLS will match up to 5% of your pay every pay period. Matching contributions are 100% vested immediately.
• Life and Disability Insurance – Employer‑paid life insurance, along with short‑term and long‑term disability coverage provided to all full‑time employees.
• Voluntary Life Protection Plans – Employees and their dependents can elect coverage in our voluntary life/add, critical illness, hospital indemnity and accident plans.
• Rewards and Recognition Programs – We celebrate our employees! From birthdays to anniversaries and other various milestones/achievements, we have programs in place to recognize our employees.
• Financial Planning – Free One on One financial planning with a certified Financial Planner/Coach.
• Employee Discount – Employee Discount Program for savings on everyday goods and services at various retailers throughout the US.