Rail Brakeman
Harpers Ferry, WV, US, 25425-7012
ABOUT THE ROLE
Holcim US, a leading supplier of quality, construction building materials in the United States, has immediate openings for a Rail Brakeman to support the Aggregrate Prodiuction Operations in Millville, WV. The position is primarily responsible for or spotting and switching railcars throughout the railway yard, coupling and uncoupling rail cars and maintaining track areas and loading/unloading conveyors. Responsible for safely carrying out all movements to protect crew and public (sales trucks, public road crossings, and company visitors).
WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH
- Assist in switching railcars loaded with aggregate materials within the quarry rail yard to ensure proper alignment for loading/unloading.
- Couple and uncouple railcars using manual or pneumatic braking systems, ensuring all connections are secure and safe.
- Operate railcar hand brakes and monitor movement to control and position cars during loading and transport operations.
- Communicate with the locomotive engineer and ground crew using radios or hand signals to coordinate safe and efficient rail movements.
- Inspect railcars and track switches for safety, functionality, and cleanliness before and after each movement or operation.
- Apply safety protocols during rail operations in accordance with MSHA and FRA standards to prevent accidents or derailments.
- Support loading operations by ensuring railcars are properly spotted and aligned under hoppers or conveyors for material transfer.
- Perform routine checks and maintenance support of rail-related equipment and report any hazards or mechanical issues to supervisors
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Field of Study Preferred: Industrial Maintenance
Required Work Experience: 1–3 years of experience in rail operations, switching, or related work in an industrial, quarry, or freight yard environment.
Travel Requirements: N/A
- Experience with rail switching operations, including coupling/uncoupling and spotting railcars in industrial or quarry settings.
- Strong understanding of rail safety protocols and ability to follow FRA and MSHA regulations on the job site.
- Ability to communicate clearly via hand signals or two-way radio with engineers and ground crew for safe coordination.
- Basic mechanical aptitude for inspecting railcars, brake systems, and track switches for safety and functionality.
- Situational awareness and quick decision-making skills to safely manage rail movements in high-traffic, active work zones.
- Physical stamina and strength to climb railcars, operate manual hand brakes, and work in various weather conditions.
- Attention to detail when documenting railcar numbers, switch positions, and operational logs.
- Must be able to pass a 7-year criminal background check, including both felonies and misdemeanors, as required for employment.
Additional Requirements:
- Successful candidates must adhere to all safety protocols and proper use of Holcim approved Personal Protection Equipment ("PPE"), including but not limited to respirators. Employees that are required to wear respirators must be clean shaven where the respirator seal meets the face in order to pass the qualitative and quantitative fit tests.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Competitive salary
- Retirement Savings: Choose from 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax savings
- Medical, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance
- Holistic Health & Well-being programs
- Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health and dependent care
- Vision and other Voluntary benefits and discounts
- Paid time off & paid holidays
- Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity)
- Educational Assistance Program
- Dress for your day
YOUR HOLCIM EXPERIENCE
Holcim offers endless opportunities for you to play your part. Whether you’re in a technical, managerial, or frontline role, you can shape a career that works for you. With Holcim you’ll have the chance to embrace the passion we share for our planet. You’ll be encouraged to seek out diverse perspectives, share your ideas and build the skills and connections you need to perform at your best. Because it’s only when we work together in a culture where everyone thrives, that we can build the world we all want to live in.