Switchperson

Switchpersons with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a company that promotes a strong safety culture, this opportunity is for you!

Cando provides specialized rail operating services. We provide a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, and more. With over 50 operations, we are the 3 largest locomotive fleet in Canada and growing!

Cando Advantages

• Work Life Balance with Fixed Schedules


• Cando’s Technical and Leadership Training Programs


• Award Winning Safety Culture


• Employee Ownership Program


• Group Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, and Long-Term Disability Insurances


• Flexible Health & Dental Benefits


•  Canada’s Best Managed Company for 9 years!

Job Description

Switchpersons with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services.  Working in a fast-paced, customer-oriented environment, the Switching crew must work well in teams to maximize efficiency and safety, while demonstrating a strong initiative, and organizational skills.

Roles & Responsibilities

The incumbent works in a team environment to provide safe and effective switching services. Responsibilities include:

• Ensuring safe operation of the locomotive and train movements including conducting clear and concise job briefings.


• Applying rules, special instructions, and switching procedures while operating as a locomotive engineer or grounds person. This includes but is not limited to working as a team to operate switches and derails, coupling and uncoupling rail cars, managing air hoses, and applying or releasing handbrakes to perform necessary rail car switching maneuvers for the customer.


• Providing protection of train, track, and equipment.


• Performing plant and equipment inspections, including air brake tests.


• Complying with all applicable operating rules, switching procedures, regulations imposed by government, the customer, and/or Cando; practicing and promoting safe work habits.


• Keeping the interior of the locomotive safe, clean, and tidy.


• Completing daily inspection and testing of the locomotive brakes and safety devices.


• Completing daily reports, daily logs, and other reports deemed necessary for the customer or Cando.


• Actively participating with the team and providing excellent customer service while promoting a superior company image.


• Participating in training or company initiatives as required.

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities

• Excellent teamwork skills and strong customer service skills.


• Ability to read and write general documentation including safety briefings, policy and procedure manuals, and switching lists.


• Physically fit including the ability to pull self up and down from a railcar on a continuous basis, able to lift and twist air hoses, able to secure rail car brakes, and operate both derails and switches effectively.


• Knowledge with technology and computer systems with a willingness to use Excel and Outlook on a daily basis.


• Ability to obtain necessary certification, and pass Drug/Alcohol and medical clearances to perform the role.

Education & Experience

• Experience as a Locomotive Operator and/or Switchperson is preferred.


• Previous experience in a customer oriented environment is preferred.

Note: This description is not intended to limit the assignment of work or be construed as a complete list of the many duties to be performed by the incumbent. The qualifications are provided so interested candidates understand of the level of expertise required in this position