Backhoe & On-Track Machine Operator

Job Description

Backhoe Operator & On-Track Machine Operator

American Track recognizes that earthwork is a vital part of almost all railroad construction projects. With our equipment and expertise, we offer a broad range of earthwork services, and our backhoe operators are at the heart of our operations.

This is an hourly-rated, skilled craft position that works on construction and maintenance projects. The successful applicant will perform a wide variety of tasks, transferring from one task to another as the workflow dictates. You will be trained on and operate specialty railroad machinery, including a Tamper machine and Ballast Regulator, in addition to your backhoe operator duties. This role is intended for an individual capable of operating both backhoes and our on-track machines.

Some travel and weekend work should be expected. We offer competitive pay, paid time off, holiday pay, 401k, and a robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.

Job Responsibilities

• Safe Equipment Operation: Operate all machinery in a safe manner.
• Equipment Setup: Set up heavy construction equipment.
• Experience: 1+ years of experience operating a backhoe, with experience in a railroad construction environment preferred.
• Maintenance & Documentation: Perform proper pre-start and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation. Keep equipment clean and well-maintained.
• Earthwork: Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth.
• Material Handling: Operate equipment to move, load, or unload material.
• Attachments: Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures.
• Communication & Coordination: Signal directions or warnings to coworkers. Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.
• Site Preparation: Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work.
• Work Planning: Study instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements. Understand grade plan requirements and set grade standards.
• Leadership & Delegation: Demonstrate the ability to lead a crew and delegate work within the scope of work.
• Production Awareness: Understand production and quantity requirements.
• Decision Making: Make decisions based on verifiable standards.
• Cross-Functional Support: Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts, including operating on-track machinery. Assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed basis.
• Training: Ability and willingness to be trained, as well as train others, on the machinery.

Education and Experience

• Experience: At least one year of previous experience as a backhoe operator is required.
• Education: A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred.
• Communication: Must be able to understand work directions and communicate effectively with Superintendents and fellow employees.
• License: A valid driver’s license is required.

Physical Demands

The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by a backhoe operator to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:

• Constant Physical Effort: Constant physical effort, including standing, is required during a regular work shift of at least eight hours per day. Employee must be able to stand for extended periods of time, and to stoop, bend, and crouch as required to perform key duties.
• Overhead Work: Frequently work with hands extended overhead, sometimes in conjunction with the operation of hand power tools.
• Lifting & Carrying: Ability to lift and carry, on a frequent basis, at least 50 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance.
• Situational Awareness: Maintain constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment.
• Mobility: Frequently walk on uneven surfaces, including natural ground, in varying weather conditions. The operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely.