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Job Summary The Track Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and productive operation of several types of heavy machinery to support site operations and the Track Maintenance Team. This role requires adherence to all applicable safety regulations, operating procedures, and company standards, while maintaining elevated levels of productivity. Operators must be able to communicate clearly with team members, supervisors, and customers to ensure the safe, successful execution of daily tasks. This Track Equipment Operator description is general and illustrative of the type of duties required for this position. This description is not all inclusive and is not meant to be a detailed description of each duty performed by the incumbent.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities The Track Equipment Operator will operate and maintain heavy rail-related machinery including but not limited to tampers, ballast regulators, forklifts, backhoes, compact track or wheel loaders, and brush cutters in a safe and efficient manner




Perform routine equipment inspections and maintain accurate and consistent inspection records using handwritten and electronic formats
Maintain safe work practices, monitor worksite safety, and comply with all State, Federal, Customer, Company and Federal Railroad Administration standards, rules, and regulations
Read and interpret material lists, safety manuals, load charts, inventory, gauges, schematics, maintenance manuals, safety rules, material movement, and operational instructions
Inspect, load, unload, distribute, maintain, install, and repair track materials including rail, cross ties, switch ties, ballast, switch stands and turnouts
The Track Equipment Operator will assist with surfacing, aligning, gauging, and alignment of track to ensure proper structure, geometry and stability
Perform vegetation control, snow and debris removal from tracks, switches, crossings, and walkways to maintain safe operational integrity
Support the construction, maintenance, and repair of road crossings, bridges, culverts, tunnels, and other rail infrastructure with heavy machinery, hand tools, and manual labor




Troubleshoot and perform minor equipment repairs in the field; communicate complex mechanical issues to managers or qualified maintenance personnel
Adhere to safety procedures including the use of required personal protective equipment, fall protection and other devices in compliance with federal, state, and company regulations
Perform inspections and document routine maintenance records of track infrastructure defects and repair, ensuring compliance with track authority guidelines
Respond promptly and appropriately to incidents, accidents, or emergency calls as needed
Communicate clearly and professionally and collaborate with team members, supervisors, other department managers, and dispatch via radio and in person
Ensure accurate and timely documentation of consumables, inventory, fuel, and material usage
Participating in training and demonstrate proficiency in job-specific tasks within a designated onboarding period
Demonstrate consistent attendance, punctuality, and flexibility to work overtime, rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays as required
Work efficiently in both supervised and unsupervised environments
Perform other duties as assigned or required
Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to pass and obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position.
Must have a current and valid driver’s license
Training or certifications in heavy equipment operation preferred
Education High School or GED equivalent

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📌 Track Equipment Operator - Sault Ste Marie, ON (Ontario)
🏢 Watco
📍 Ontario