POSITION SUMMARY: This position will repair and maintain all aspects of the rail including frogs, rail-ends, turn-outs, switch points and glue joints using arc, propane or thermite welding processes.  This position will also inspect the weld after grinding to ensure no visible defects, replace defective rails where needed; and operate equipment in a safe and efficient manner.   The welder helper will also assist the welder in completing daily activities.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma/GED
• 18 years of age or older
• Valid Commercial Driver’s License required
• Welding certification preferred
• Mechanical aptitude
• 3-5 years of experience in railroad track construction and/or maintenance preferred
• Experience in shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and/or flux core arc welding (FCAW)
• Able to read, write and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English
• Available to work system-wide, extended and frequent travel required
• Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Available to work a 40 hour work week subject to overtime, on-call and alternate shifts that may include weeknights, weekends and holidays.
• Able to lift and carry up to 70 pounds with or without assistance.
• Must have requisite color vision acuity
• Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection
• Stoop/bend/kneel/crouch/balance/climb on an occasional basis
• Exposure to equipment that intensifies the heat factor
• Follow safety policies and procedures and wear the required personal protective equipment required for the job in a safe manner.
• Able to complete work under time pressures and to maintain composure under the stress of emergent situations

JOB DUTIES:

• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
• Perform grinding tasks using power and hand tools
• Inspect all equipment daily cylinders, hoses or connections
• Assist other employees in changing out rail with rail tongs
• Replace rail anchors, drive spikes and tamp ballast as needed
• Clean work pieces to remove impurities such as slag, rust and grease
• Monitor and maintain flow of gases, light torch and adjust gas mixture and pressure to obtain desired flame when making field welds
• Apply filler rod to molten area to form weld
• Repair or replace broken or cracked rail and build-up rail, trim weld, grind the surface of the rail, and grind gauge sides
• Inspect weld after grinding to check for hairline cracks or any visible defects
• Operate propane torches and electric and gas welding equipment
• Operate heavy duty trucks to carry equipment to and from the work site
• Test rail after using the thermite welding procedure to detect voids, lack of fusion or other defects in the rail
• Exemplifies KCS Vision, Values, and Culture interactions with coworkers, business partners, customers, and stakeholders

UNION MEMBERSHIP: This position is governed by a collective bargaining agreement and the successful applicant will be required to join the union. Monthly union dues are required and will be deducted from the employee's paycheck.  Based on an employee's seniority, an employee may be able, or in some cases required, to work in positions other than the one for which s/he applied.

The duties, responsibilities and qualifications in this posting are representative categories to be used by an applicant in deciding whether to apply for the position. These general guidelines do not constitute an exhaustive list of qualifications or essential functions of the position. In addition, these general guidelines bear no relation to, nor are they intended to modify or conflict with, any collective bargaining agreement provision. Questions about the collective bargaining agreement, if any, governing the position described herein should be directed to the appropriate union organization.

EEO STATEMENT

We value a culturally diverse workforce and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

In 1887, Arthur Stilwell constructed a north-south railroad while others were heading east and west, setting the tone for a century-old legacy of outstanding vision; entrepreneurial spirit; resilience in the face of adversity; and, willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. Building on that legacy, our culture is further defined by a new vision for the future and a core set of values - Safety, Customer Focus, Communication, Teamwork, Initiative & Innovation, and Diversity & Civility. We believe that the way we do business is as important as the business we do.

In addition to a culture that allows employees to thrive, we encourage resourcefulness with an award, recognizing employees who see a problem (or opportunity), find a solution, and use whatever authority and resources are available to get a job done well - accomplishing what was previously thought could not be done.

If you want to do work that is creative and strategic, be heard, grow professionally, be valued by your employer, and know that you are making an important contribution to an essential industry, a global supply chain, and the larger economy, Kansas City Southern may be the place for you.

Required Skills Required Experience