Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
This position does not qualify for Railroad Retirment Benefits
Job Summary
The Locomotive Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of trains, ensuring compliance with all schedules, safety rules, and regulatory requirements. This role involves controlling and coordinating train movements while switching railcars in railroad yards, industrial plants, or similar locations to support the safe and timely loading and unloading of railcars for customers. The position requires manual labor and hands-on work in the field. The individual must become proficient in all related skills, duties, and requirements within a designated training and introductory period.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Follow written and verbal instructions to complete assigned tasks safely and on schedule
•Read, write, and communicate effectively; perform basic math as needed
• Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes, and apply established procedures using sound judgment
• Conduct pre-trip inspections of locomotives to verify fuel, sand, water, and compliance with FRA requirements
• Review and interpret railcar switching orders from the designated authority
• Observe and respond to radio and hand signals while operating locomotives in accordance with railroad rules and regulations
• Operate locomotive controls, including throttle and air brakes, to move trains as directed by signals or instructions
• Read and interpret wayside signals, track warrants, bulletins, and operating rules to ensure safe and efficient operation
• Communicate with crew members and yard personnel via radio to exchange switching information
• Coordinate with the train dispatcher via radio regarding stops, delays, and oncoming train movements
Qualifications
Strong knowledge of railroad operations, safety regulations, and equipment troubleshooting, good communications and problem-solving skills; ability to work in various weather conditions and irregular hours. Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position.
•Must possess valid driver’s license and be insurable by company insurance provider to drive and operate company vehicles and equipment as necessary