Assistant Operations Manager – Railroad
qualdoc · Taneytown, MD · onsite
Assistant Manager – Railroad Operations (Track/Rerail)
Location: Taneytown, MD
Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
Starting Salary: $100,000/year; higher salary available depending on experience
Position Summary
We are hiring an Assistant Field Operations Manager to help lead railroad field crews and emergency response activities. This role combines field leadership, project coordination, safety oversight, and hands-on support for operations involving derailments, rerailing, specialty lifting, railcar work, and track maintenance.
The ideal candidate is comfortable working in demanding field environments, making decisions under pressure, and supporting supervisors and crews across multiple job sites.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support and guide field supervisors in managing multiple projects while meeting DOT/FRA regulations and company safety standards.
- Assign work, track progress, and ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and according to customer requirements.
- Provide hands-on field leadership, coach employees, resolve problems, and assist with emergency service calls as needed.
- Visit job sites to evaluate safety, work quality, and operational efficiency, address risks, and implement corrective measures.
- Coordinate with railroad customers, field partners, and regulatory agencies to maintain effective communication and working relationships.
- Train, mentor, and develop employees; assist with hiring, performance reviews, and ongoing coaching.
- Support workforce planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
- Ensure accurate and timely records of payroll, labor hours, equipment usage, and project activities.
- Monitor equipment condition and coordinate maintenance or replacement to maintain operational readiness.
- Help develop business opportunities through customer relationships, industry networking, and participation in industry events.
Required and Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in railroad operations, heavy equipment, construction, or a related field preferred.
- Strong understanding of Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations.
- Demonstrated leadership experience supervising teams in field-based operations.
- Experience operating heavy equipment, including cranes, trucks, and excavators.
- Ability to read and interpret crane load charts and rigging requirements.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to lead, coach, and motivate employees.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to learn operational software systems.
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
- CDL Class A or B preferred, but not required.
- Ability to complete required safety training and certification programs.
Work Environment and Requirements:
- Frequent overnight travel.
- On-call availability, with the ability to report to the job site within one hour.
- Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions and physically demanding environments.
- Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and holidays as operational needs require.
- Active, hands-on work involving walking and working in railroad environments, with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Training and certification opportunities.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan.
- Disability, life, and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Career development and advancement opportunities.