Backhoe / On-Track Equipment Operator (Traveling) - Railroad Services

Pay Type: Hourly, negotiable DOE

Location: Winnemucca, NV andIntermountain West (UT, ID, WY, NV, AZ, and surrounding regions)

Employment Type: Hourly, Full-Time; travel and weekend work required

Travel: Regular travel throughout the Intermountain West required

GBI Railroad Services recognizes that earthwork is a critical component of nearly all railroad construction and maintenance projects. Our Backhoe Operators are skilled craft professionals at the core of our operations, supporting safe and efficient delivery of railroad infrastructure across the Intermountain West.

This hourly position performs a wide variety of earthwork, construction, and maintenance tasks and regularly transitions between duties as workflow demands. In addition to operating a backhoe, the successful candidate will be trained to operate specialized on-track railroad equipment, including Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. Candidates are hired with the intent to develop proficiency in both off-track and on-track equipment operations.

• Operate backhoes and other heavy construction equipment in a safe and productive manner.

• Set up heavy equipment and attachments for daily operations.
• Perform pre-start inspections and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and perform required routine maintenance.
• Operate equipment to grade, excavate, and redistribute earth and ballast.
• Operate equipment to move, load, and unload materials.
• Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures.
• Coordinate equipment movements with crew activities using hand and audio signals.
• Signal directions or warnings to coworkers as needed.
• Locate underground utilities such as pipes and wires prior to excavation.
• Review plans, instructions, and diagrams to establish work requirements.
• Interpret grade plans and set grade standards.
• Demonstrate the ability to lead a crew and delegate work within assigned scope.
• Understand production targets and quantity requirements.
• Make operational decisions based on established standards and procedures.
• Perform incidental duties associated with other crafts, including operation of on-track machinery.
• Assist field crews with labor tasks as required.
• Demonstrate the ability and willingness to be trained and to train others on equipment operations.

Education and Experience

Minimum of one (1) year of experience as a backhoe operator; experience in a railroad or heavy civil construction environment preferred. High School Diploma or GED preferred. Must be able to understand work instructions and communicate effectively with Superintendents and fellow employees. A valid driver’s license is required.

Physical Demands

• Ability to perform constant physical effort during work shifts of eight hours or more.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and to stoop, bend, crouch, and climb as required.
• Frequent work with hands extended overhead, sometimes using hand or power tools.
• Ability to lift and carry at least 50 pounds independently and up to 150 pounds with assistance.
• Maintain constant alertness to jobsite activities, equipment movement, and surrounding hazards.
• Ability to walk on uneven terrain in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to safely climb on and off heavy mobile equipment.

This position requires the ability to perform all essential job functions safely and effectively, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off (PTO) – accrues starting day one!
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Per Diem Allowance for qualifying out-of-town work (meals & lodging support)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Why You’ll Love GBI

We live our values:

• DRIVEN: Find a Way to Win
  (Passionate. Accountable. Humbly Confident.)

• BUILDING: Build People, Teams & America
  (Learn. Share. Grow.)

• EXCELLENCE: Skillfully Execute, Solve Problems & Stand Firm
  (Self Discipline + Proven Process = Winning.)

• TOGETHER: Ride for the Brand
  (People First. Straight Talk. Honest Work.)

We have an award-winning workplace culture!

• Utah Top Workplace – 2025
• Austin Top Workplace 2025
• USA Today Top Workplace – 2024 & 2025

We Reward Loyalty

• All-expenses-paid 5 & 20-year anniversary trips, milestone bonuses, and exclusive celebration perks that recognize your commitment.

GBI People & Culture Statement:
We are committed to providing an inclusive environment that ensures the happiness and success of each of our associates. We pride ourselves on hiring, training, and retaining a community of employees from various backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.

EEO Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.

We are a drug-free workplace.