Switching Technician I

Guardian Rail, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, is proud to operate one of the country's leading freight rail services and transportation companies with a large network of freight and tank car repair facilities, a nationwide network of running repair agents, and a rail services division that operates short line railroads and contract switching and transloading sites. We currently have an opportunity for a Switching Technician in our Kansas City facility with responsibility for railcar movements, connections and releases. We seek safety-minded individuals who enjoy outdoor, hands-on work. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Properly interpret railcar switch lists, yard management of tracks and classification of rail cars Maintain accountability and maintenance of all assigned equipment, including trains and hand tools Coordinate activities of workers engaged in railroad traffic operations including the makeup or break up of trains, yard switching and movement schedules Properly interpret train orders, signals and industry rules & regulations Complete pre-movement inspection of cars including blue flag protection requirements, and safe status of couplings, air hoses, and handbrakes to ensure safe train operation and movement Maintain derailer protection for work areas while switching Inspect each car periodically during runs Provide direction to workers engaged in yard activities such as coupling and uncoupling cars and routing traffic Observe yard traffic to determine and accommodate proper movement Set proper warning signals Perform user maintenance checks and complete appropriate check lists Participate in nonconformance root cause investigations, corrective actions and monitoring #Indeed123 Qualifications Prior railcar switching experience preferred but not required for candidates with heavy machine operations experience in an industrial setting Ability to give full attention to surroundings and communicate clearly to ensure the safe movement of rail assets without harm to individuals or property Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time in outdoor conditions and confined spaces Must be able to work at elevated heights Must be able to read and comprehend schematics, regulations and work instructions