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.