Grapple Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Basic Function:

Responsible for loading, unloading and safe transportation of equipment and/or materials to/from job site, operation of equipment at job site (if qualified) and providing assistance in one or more of the following: rerailing operations, maintenance/repair of railroad cars, load adjust/transfer activities and track maintenance/repair/new builds.
Ensures that all activities are carried out in a safe, effective, professional, and efficient manner so as to protect employees and the assets of the Company.

Essential Functions:

1. Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspection of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with Company policy and D.O.T. regulations.
2. Drives tractor-trailer to/from job sites, inspects loads, and machinery being transported. Verifies transportation permits to ensure that specifications for overweight and oversize loads/equipment are accurate.
3. Upon arrival at job site, participates in discussions related to the days' work plan in to ensure safety/efficiency in carrying out daily work assignment. Actively participates in daily safety briefing.
4. Moves, stages, loads/unloads materials/equipment in preparation of work activities for rerailing, load adjust/transfer, and/or track maintenance/repair/new builds. Upon conclusion of assignment ensures that equipment/materials are reloaded for safe transportation and actively participates in site clean-up.
5. Assist in assembly, inspection, and operation of cranes and other equipment. Operates equipment in conformance with standard operational policies/procedures while following all safety rules/regulations. Assist with rigging and connection of chains, cables, and winches during derailments. Performs equipment operations with awareness to surroundings and co-workers so as to avoid dangerous situations.
6. Operates equipment (cranes, backhoes, grapple truck, dump truck, excavators, etc.) in accomplishment of tasks associated with specialty lifting, re-railing, load transfer, track maintenance/repair, grading or other work in preparation for railroad construction and related activities.
7. Works with hydraulic tools, welding, cutting with torches, electrical tools and common hand tools in accomplishment of work assignments.
8. Continuously monitors equipment/vehicles to minimize down town and to ensure operational readiness.
9. Perform and document minor service on equipment/vehicles, referring more complicated mechanical issues to Shop Manager/Foreman for repair.
10. Participates in disassembly/loading of cranes and other equipment as necessary at the end of job assignment.
11. Upon return to home base restocks vehicles/equipment with necessary parts, components, supplies in preparation of future work. Sorts scrap materials placing same in designated locations.
12. Flexible/work-ready to perform tasks for other departments/divisions as may be required to meet business needs and customer expectations.
13. Follows all required safety policies and procedures.
14. Maintains vehicles/equipment and work area ensuring that they are cleared of debris/trash, tools and equipment are organized and that the work area/vehicle/equipment present the level of quality and craftsmanship expected of Cranemasters' team members.

Required Travel: Yes; Frequent/extended overnight travel

Subordinate Positions: N/A

Immediate Supervisor's Title: Supervisor, Foreman

Required Skills and Experience:

1. Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer loaders; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
2. Must possess a valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with good driving record.
3. Capable of understanding and following directions.
4. Display strong adherence to safety policies and procedures.
5. Able to read, write and speak English
6. Must pass qualification tests as required (includes E-Rail Safe and other training/safety programs).
7. Must meet 24/7 availability in order to respond to emergency calls for service including weekends and holidays.