Locomotive Engineer

Primary Responsibilities 1. Safe Locomotive Operation Safely operate locomotives during switching, spotting, pulling, pushing, and yard movements. Maintain full control of train speed, braking, and positioning to protect personnel, equipment, and infrastructure. Obey all instructions from designated ground personnel related to safe locomotive operation. Immediately stop operations if unsafe conditions are observed or communicated. Exercise sound judgment when handling long consists, grades, curves, and yard congestion. 2. Regulatory Compliance (FRA) Maintain current qualification and certification under FRA CFR Part 240 (Locomotive Engineers) . Comply with Hours of Service (CFR Part 228) , Drug & Alcohol Testing (CFR Part 219) , and all applicable FRA regulations. Participate in required efficiency testing, operational monitoring, recertification, and remedial training as assigned. Maintain working knowledge of railroad operating rules, special instructions, and terminal timetables. 3. Communication & Coordination Maintain constant, clear radio communication with ground crews, lead operators, and supervisors. Properly acknowledge and repeat critical instructions, including: Movement authority Track designation Red Zone establishment and release Communicate known restrictions, special handling requirements, or equipment concerns before movement begins. Coordinate closely with operations to ensure safe and efficient railcar placement. 4. Red Zone & Personnel Protection Immediately place the locomotive in full brakes and neutral when a Red Zone is established. Verbally confirm "Set and Centered" prior to personnel accessing railcars or track areas. Do not move equipment until the Red Zone has been officially released by the lead operator. Treat any Red Zone violation as a serious safety matter subject to corrective action. 5. Equipment Inspection & Care Perform required locomotive inspections prior to use and document findings as required. Report mechanical defects, damage, or unsafe conditions immediately. Operate locomotives in a manner that minimizes wear, damage, and unplanned downtime. Do not operate equipment known to be unsafe or out of compliance. 6. Operational Efficiency & Yard Performance Support efficient switching, blocking, and spotting of railcars to meet terminal throughput and production goals. Minimize delays, re‑handles, and unnecessary movements through effective train handling. Maintain awareness of yard layout, track capacity, active work zones, and adjacent operations. 7. Train Handling in High‑Traffic Environments Must be comfortable and competent handling long consists , including pulling, pushing, and controlling trains of up to approximately 150 railcars . Demonstrate the ability to block, sort, and spot railcars accurately to support terminal operations, unloading sequences, and yard organization. Safely perform switching and blocking movements in a busy, active rail yard with multiple simultaneous operations, personnel on the ground, and heavy equipment operating nearby. Maintain situational awareness of track occupancy, clearances, radio communications, and hand signals while managing long‑train dynamics. Apply proper slack control, braking techniques, and speed management to prevent derailments, run‑ins/run‑outs, product damage, or personnel exposure. Coordinate closely with ground crews and supervisors to ensure efficient car placement while maintaining strict compliance with all safety rules. Training & Qualification Requirements Valid FRA Locomotive Engineer certification (CFR Part 240). Completion of company locomotive engineer training program.

Participation in:

Annual operational monitoring and efficiency testing Rules classes and safety training Recertification every 36 months or as required Successful completion of required hearing, vision, and drug/alcohol compliance programs. Behavioral & Professional Expectations Safety Leadership Demonstrate a safety‑first mindset at all times. Exercise Stop Work Authority when conditions are unsafe. Promptly report near misses, incidents, or unsafe acts. Professional Conduct Treat coworkers, contractors, and supervisors with respect. Communicate clearly and professionally, especially during high‑risk movements. Accept coaching, feedback, and corrective action constructively. Accountability Take ownership of locomotive operation decisions and outcomes. Follow all rules and procedures whether supervised or unsupervised. Understand that violations of FRA rules or company policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination. Work Environment & Schedule Expectations Work in outdoor, industrial environments under varying weather conditions. Ability to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call‑outs. Perform duties around moving trains, railcars, heavy equipment, and industrial operations. Performance Expectations Zero preventable incidents or rule violations. Consistent compliance with FRA and company standards. Reliable communication, teamwork, and situational awareness. Support terminal objectives for safe, efficient, and reliable rail operations. Acknowledgement This position operates in a non‑union environment . This RRE does not limit management's right to assign additional duties consistent with business needs, operational requirements, and regulatory obligations.