Tamper Operator - Railway Maintenance Remote/Indiana

Ameritrack Rail

As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings—which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway—you’ll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We’re committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone’s empowered to be their best.

The Tamper Operator is responsible for operating railway tamping machines used to align and compact the ballast under railway tracks, ensuring a smooth and stable rail surface. This role is vital in maintaining track geometry and ensuring safe, efficient train operations. The operator must be familiar with railway maintenance standards and safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate rail-mounted tamper machines to align, level, and compact track ballast beneath railway ties.
• Follow track maintenance schedules and procedures under the direction of the Track Supervisor.
• Adjust and calibrate tamping equipment for specific rail conditions and tolerances.
• Read and interpret track diagrams, work orders, and machine settings.
• Conduct routine pre-operation inspections of tamping machines to ensure proper function and safety.
• Perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting of tamper equipment.
• Collaborate with other maintenance-of-way (MOW) personnel including surfacing crews, welders, and track inspectors.
• Report unsafe conditions, track defects, or equipment malfunctions to appropriate personnel.
• Maintain accurate daily logs and production records.

Hourly Rate: Starting at $30/hr. based on experience.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum 1–2 years of experience in railroad maintenance or operating rail-bound machinery.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL may be required depending on jurisdiction.
• Certification for railway equipment operation (e.g., FRA-compliant training or company-specific certification).
• Familiarity with railway maintenance practices and safety standards (e.g., AREMA, FRA regulations).

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong understanding of track geometry and alignment principles.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform minor repairs.
• Safety-first mindset and knowledge of railway safety protocols (e.g., track protection, flagging).
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a maintenance crew.
• Effective communication and problem-solving skills.

Working Conditions:

• Extensive travel along rail corridors; may require working in remote locations.
• Work performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Frequently works near moving trains and heavy equipment.
• May require night shifts, weekends, and extended hours during track outages or scheduled maintenance windows.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and operate equipment for long periods.
• Lift and carry materials up to 50 lbs.
• Climb on and off rail equipment safely.
• Good vision, hearing, and hand-eye coordination.

Why Join Our Team?

We take pride in offering our employees rich benefits packages. We appreciate hard-working and passionate individuals which is why we offer...

• Medical, dental, vision
• Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance
• Company-paid sickness and accident income
• 401k matching
• Annual safety shoe reimbursement
• Prescription safety wear
• Holiday pay
• Vacation
• Marmon employee discount program

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Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to careers@marmon.com, and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.

Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to careers@marmon.com, and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.