Railroad Ballast Cleaner

Description

The Railroad Ballast Cleaner will be responsible for maintaining and cleaning the ballast (the stones placed around railroad tracks) to ensure the proper function of railway infrastructure. This role is critical to keeping the railroad tracks stable and safe for trains to pass. The position involves the operation of specialized equipment designed to clean, grade, and distribute ballast material along the track bed. The Ballast Cleaner will also perform routine inspections and maintenance on equipment and tools used in the process.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate ballast cleaning machinery, including ballast regulators, excavators, and vacuum systems.
• Clean and remove debris, dirt, and excess ballast from the track area to ensure the smooth operation of trains.
• Ensure proper ballast distribution and grading to maintain track stability and alignment.
• Work in collaboration with other railroad maintenance crews to inspect and maintain tracks, bridges, and other related infrastructure.
• Monitor equipment performance, report malfunctions, and perform regular maintenance and repairs on ballast cleaning machines.
• Follow all safety protocols and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Perform routine checks to ensure the cleanliness of the work environment and the proper functioning of cleaning equipment.
• Assist in maintaining track geometry by properly distributing ballast material after cleaning and removing excess debris.
• Assist in the placement and removal of materials as needed during track maintenance operations.
• Follow instructions provided by supervisors and contribute to the efficient execution of track cleaning and maintenance tasks.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to work in outdoor conditions, including exposure to dust, noise, and varying weather.
• Ability to stand, walk, and bend for long periods during work hours.

Work Environment:

• Railroad ballast cleaning often involves working outdoors in a range of weather conditions.
• The position requires working in proximity to operating trains, so attention to safety is critical.
• Night shifts or weekend work may be required depending on the maintenance schedule.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in operating heavy machinery, preferably related to railroad or construction work.
• Ability to work in challenging environmental conditions (e.g., extreme temperatures, rainy weather, etc.).
• Knowledge of basic mechanical and electrical systems to perform equipment checks and minor repairs.
• Ability to work well in a team and communicate effectively.
• Ability to perform physical labor, including lifting heavy objects and standing for extended periods.
• Strong focus on safety procedures and practices.