Track Equipment Operator - Sault Ste Marie, ON

About Watco

Join Watco and become part of a team dedicated to keeping the global supply chain flowing smoothly through our network of short line railroads, switching operations, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Watco fosters a collaborative culture where every employee plays a pivotal role, united as one team.

What Watco Offers

• A workplace culture celebrated by Forbes and Newsweek for excellence
• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits
• On-the-job paid training led by experienced peers
• Leadership and career growth initiatives via Watco University
• Clear paths for professional advancement

Position Summary

The Track Equipment Operator plays a crucial role in safely and effectively managing diverse heavy machinery integral to site operations and track maintenance. This role demands strict compliance with safety standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies, while ensuring productivity targets are achieved. Strong communication skills with coworkers, supervisors, and clients are essential for coordinated task execution. Note that the job description outlines core responsibilities and is not exhaustive.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain various heavy rail machinery including tampers, ballast regulators, forklifts, backhoes, loaders, and brush cutters safely and efficiently
• Conduct regular equipment inspections and keep detailed records through handwritten and digital logs
• Adhere to all safety protocols, monitoring workplace hazards, and comply with relevant state, federal, company, and Federal Railroad Administration regulations
• Interpret material lists, safety manuals, schematics, load charts, gauges, and operational instructions accurately
• Handle track materials such as rail, cross ties, switch ties, ballast, and track hardware including installation, maintenance, and repairs
• Assist with track surfacing, alignment, gauging, and ensuring structural stability and correct geometry
• Perform vegetation management and clear snow or debris from tracks, switches, and crossings to maintain safe operations
• Support infrastructure projects including road crossings, bridges, tunnels, culverts using machinery, hand tools, and manual labor
• Troubleshoot and carry out minor equipment repairs onsite and communicate complex problems to appropriate personnel
• Use required personal protective gear and follow fall protection and other safety devices according to governing regulations
• Conduct inspections and document maintenance and repair work to ensure adherence to track authority standards
• React immediately to incidents or emergencies as needed
• Maintain clear, professional communication with all team members and departments through radios and in person
• Accurately record supplies, inventory, fuel, and material usage in a timely manner
• Engage in training programs and demonstrate proficiency in assigned tasks within onboarding timelines
• Exhibit dependability through regular attendance, punctuality, and willingness to work overtime, shift rotations, weekends, and holidays
• Maintain productivity in both supervised and independent working conditions
• Perform other related assignments as required

Requirements and Qualifications

• Possession of a valid driver’s license
• Preferred: formal training or certifications in heavy equipment operation
• Ability to meet all reporting, testing, and certification requirements associated with the role

Education

High school diploma or GED equivalent is required.