Yard Laborer / Heavy Equipment Operator

Omaha Track is the innovative product and service supplier to the railroad industry-dedicated to providing excellence, quality, and value. We are committed to remaining the industry leader by focusing on continuous growth and improvement in our 4 areas of focus: Materials/Railroad Services/Equipment/Terminal Services.

Position Description

The Yard Laborer / Knuckle Boom Operator is responsible for safely operating knuckle boom/grapple equipment, front-end loaders, and other heavy equipment to load and unload trucks and railroad cars, move and sort materials, and de-plate railroad ties. This position also performs general yard labor, equipment and facility maintenance, housekeeping, and other tasks as needed to support daily operations.

The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and able to transition between various tasks based on daily priorities. This position will be cross trained in multiple areas and is expected to work effectively both independently and as part of a team while maintaining a clean, safe, and productive yard environment.

Major Areas of Responsibility

• Safely operate knuckle boom/grapple equipment, front-end loaders, and other heavy equipment.
• Load and unload trucks and railroad cars; move, sort, and de-plate railroad ties and other materials.
• Load trailers according to DOT axle-weight requirements.
• Perform general yard labor, including shoveling, cleaning, debris removal, and material handling.
• Assist with greasing, maintenance, and upkeep of equipment, conveyor systems, grinding systems, and company property.
• Inspect equipment and report maintenance, safety, or operational concerns.
• Maintain clean and safe equipment, work areas, platforms, and walkways.
• Participate in job briefings and maintain effective radio communication.
• Follow Omaha Track, railroad, DOT, and safety policies and procedures.
• Complete required safety training and certifications.
• Demonstrate initiative by identifying and completing work without constant direction.
• Cross-train in multiple positions and assist with other operational duties as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age .

• Knuckle boom/grapple operating experience required.

• At least 1 year of front-end loader experience preferred.

• Valid driver's license required; must not have any major driving offenses within the past three years.

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Previous railroad, heavy equipment, industrial, or general labor experience is a plus.

• Basic mechanical and mathematical skills.

• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Demonstrated initiative, reliability, and willingness to take on additional tasks.

Work Requirements

• Dependable and consistent attendance and punctuality are required.
• Ability to work outdoors in a railroad yard and tie-grinding facility in all weather conditions.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment and hand tools for extended periods.
• Ability to mount and dismount equipment safely without assistance.
• Ability to work safely around moving equipment, railcars, elevated areas, and varying terrain.
• Ability to follow safety procedures, railroad regulations, and Omaha Track policies.
• Ability to transition between different tasks and adjust to changing daily priorities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds .
• Ability to perform physical activities including standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, bending, squatting, pulling, and reaching above and below the shoulders.
• Ability to maintain focus and attention to detail while performing repetitive physical tasks.
• Willingness and ability to learn different types of railroad ties and identify common flaws or defects.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, cooperative working relationships with coworkers and supervisors.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Omaha Track, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any legally protected status or characteristic. Race/Color/Gender/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.