Switchperson

Switchpersons with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching on customer sites and/or at our terminals. 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! This position is for Sturgeon Terminal.

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 8 years!

Job Description

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

Roles & Responsibilities

• Ensure safe operation of the locomotive including conducting clear and concise job briefings and providing protection of train, track, and equipment.
• Apply CROR Non-Main Track rules, special instructions, and switching procedures while operating as a switchperson, including operating switches and derails, coupling and uncoupling rail cars, managing air hoses, and applying and releasing handbrakes.
• Perform daily locomotive inspections including locomotive brakes and safety devices.
• Complete daily reports, logs, and other necessary documents.
• Support and assist with all aspects of Cando’s operations on site
• Comply with all applicable operating rules, switching procedures, and regulations as required by regulators, customers, and Cando; practice and promote safe work habits.
• Promptly report all safety, equipment, and track problems. Keep the interior of the locomotives, vehicles, and offices safe, clean, and tidy.
• Actively participate with the team and provide excellent customer service while promoting a superior company image.
• Participate in training or company initiatives as required.

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities

• Excellent teamwork and strong customer service skills.
• Ability to read and write general documentation, including safety briefings, operating manuals, operating instructions, and switching lists.
• Physically fit, able to pull self-up and down from a railcar on a continuous basis, lift and twist air hoses, and secure rail car brakes, derails, and switches.
• Be willing and able to work up to 12 hours per shift in all weather conditions on both day and night shifts, the site operates seven (7) days a week, 365 days a year
• Working knowledge of technology and computer systems, with a willingness to use Excel, Outlook, and other web-based applications on a daily basis.
• Strong problem solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required qualifications and safety critical medical clearances. This includes passing customer and Cando drug and alcohol screening for pre-employment, post incident, and reasonable grounds testing.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.

Education & Experience

• Grade 12 or GED.
• Previous industrial workplace or equipment operations experience an asset.
• Previous rail experience is an asset.
• Class 5 drivers license is an asset.

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.