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Roadmaster

The position of roadmaster is one of seniority and almost always require years to obtain. However, while the position holds stature it also comes with much responsibility. As roadmaster you are assigned a territory of track to maintain and see that it is kept up to whatever standards the railroad has set forth regarding it. You also are over all maintenance personnel in the assigned territory and must see that they are where they're supposed to be. Likewise you must coordinate with surrounding roadmasters and territories, and no train can pass through your assigned territory without your approval.

For instance, here is what one railroad requires for the position of assistant roadmaster:

Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsible for various track maintenance support functions on territory/division in support of the overall field activity; including but not limited to: management of scheduled manpower activity, capital plan coordination and oversight, material management, claims management, recollectible activity management, safety management, resolution of community issues, coordination of meetings and training programs, World Class Maintenance and PARS process management, vehicle fleet management, roadmaster relief including weekend and night coverage.

Qualifications:

Working knowledge of BNSF Engineering Instructions, FRA Track Safety Standards and MOW Operating Rules. Working knowledge of BMWE Labor Agreements. Must be self-directed, motivated and have strong organization, interpersonal and communication skills. Must be safety conscious and able to support and contribute to a strong safety process.

As mentioned before, if you have never worked for a railroad or know much about the industry please let me warn you that a career such as a roadmaster is not for the faint of heart. Railroading is tough work and takes a dedicated breed not only to handle the physical demands required but also the mental fatigue, as working 12-hour, seven-day-a-week shifts is normal (and overtime is mandatory).

While a more predictable work schedule does come with seniority, don’t expect it to happen within a short period of time. Some railroaders wait 20 years or more to land a “9 to 5” workday, which usually consists of working yard or local jobs. There is a reason why railroaders say that railroading becomes a lifestyle, its not just saying! Having said that, if you are able to hire on with a shortline (Class III) or regional (Class II) railroad the opportunity for a more predictable schedule is very likely although the pay is not quite as good.

In any event, if you're interested in searching for roadmaster and related positions (like maintenance-of-way jobs) in your area please feel free to use the search box below from Indeed.com, one of the leading online career resource guides.

As with most other railroad positions, the job as roadmaster can be very demanding and stressful due to all of the responsibility that is required of you. However, it can be very rewarding as well (especially if you enjoy managerial work) and the pay, as usual, is excellent on Class I railroads. Again, if you are not even sure if a career in railroading is right for you but would like to learn more about the industry feel free to browse the large selection of books at The Railroad Diamond (to visit the store click the tab in the menu to your left marked "TRD Store"), and if you need or would like help in making a selection please feel free to contact me. For more information about careers like that of a roadmaster in the railroad industry please click here.

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