Assistant Operations Manager – Railroad

About the role

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.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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.

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.
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k)
• PTO