Explore unit group

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

• Operate control panel switches from railway yard tower to set traffic signals and to activate train switches that regulate railway traffic in railway yards
• Operate car retarders, turntables and track switches to align locomotives and cars as required for coupling, uncoupling or servicing
• Operate machines and equipment to lay, maintain and repair railway tracks, align tracks, transfer, spread, level and tamp ballast around ties and rails and to clear snow from tracks
• Switch cars according to instructions which indicate the location, disposition and number of cars
• Lubricate moving parts of railway cars and locomotives
• Clean and make minor repairs to machines and equipment
• Patrol assigned track sections to identify and report damaged or broken track
• Perform other track maintenance duties as directed.

• Some secondary school education is usually required.
• Experience as a railway labourer is required.
• On-the-job training is provided
• Railway yard workers require a Canadian Rail Operating Rules certificate.

• Progression to a position such as brakeman is possible with experience.

• Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews (7302)
• Railway and motor transport labourers (7622)
• Railway conductors and brakemen/women (7362)
• Supervisors of railway yard and track maintenance workers (in 7304 Supervisors, railway transport operations)