The Portable Rail Flaw Detector (RFD) Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining CN’s portable RFD unit and protecting the plant from derailment delays due to internally defective rails. The incumbent inspects tracks using a portable UTT device to identify internal defects. The role manages a given territory which includes coordinating inspections, reporting to local Supervisors, scheduling specific testing locations, and maintaining given testing frequency.
· Supervise operation of portable RFD unit
· Monitor test data and make instrumentation corrections to ensure integrity of data and identification of flaws
· Conduct the calibration, maintenance and repairs of portable RFD unit
· Maintain data integrity by following appropriate monitoring and maintenance schedules
· Reduce derailment by finding internal flaws
· Ensure equipment is maintained and inventory is up to date
· Schedule RFD operation, including running frequencies and ensuring schedule is derived logically according to territory
· Manage territory frequency
· Coordinate track time with local Track Supervisors, Senior Managers, Transportation employees, and Superintendents
· Coordinate tracks to be cleared
· Report progress and flaws identified to local teams daily
· Safeguard track against internal defects
· Ensure appropriate safety measures are taken at all times, including the use of proper protection
· Work with various CN field employees to ensure a safe work environment is maintained at all times
· Participate in daily job and safety briefings
· Attend meetings with Senior Managers to discuss safety concerns
· Follow CN's safety policies and procedures
The role requires working varying shifts to cover operations that run 24/7 and 365 days per year. The position works 5 days on then 2 days off and shifts include days, evenings, weekends and statutory holidays. The role requires extensive travel (100%) across CN’s network in the US, primarily in Chicago and throughout Michigan. The incumbent must be able to walk at least 6 miles on uneven surfaces, as well as lift and carry up to 80 lbs.
Physically Demanding Job
· Minimum 1 year of previous experience in a physically demanding job
o Experience working for a Class 1 railroad*
o Experience in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)*
o Scheduling experience*
*Any experience for these above would be considered as an asset
· High School Diploma
· Valid Drivers’ Licence
· NDT testing I and II*
*Any designation for these above would be considered as an asset
· Identifies risks and anticipates impacts to ensure a safe and secure environment
· Addresses risks in a timely manner to eliminate them
· Continuously displays a customer centric attitude in order to improve the customer’s journey
· Shares timely information within and across functions to get things done effectively
· Deals with pressure and change by staying calm to quickly adapt to changes
· Sound knowledge of engineering operations and classification of rails
· Ultrasonic knowledge
· General Microsoft Computer Skills
· Understanding of safety principles in a yard-type environment
· Technical and practical knowledge of electrical, electronic and computer maintenance
· Functional and technical skills in rail flaw testing
· Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidelines and reporting
· Engineering Track Standards (ETS)