About the Role
Sperry Rail Service is a global leader in Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) services and technologies. This field-based CDL driving position requires extensive travel throughout the US for extended periods, operating specialized rail inspection vehicles and supporting testing operations while ensuring compliance with all DOT and safety regulations.
Responsibilities
- Travel extensively (3–4 months at a time) within assigned regions
- Perform all work in the field in varied and sometimes extreme weather conditions
- Operate commercial vehicles (hi-rail trucks and rail-bound detector cars) on roadways and railroad tracks
- Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections
- Maintain DOT compliance, including driver logs, inspections, and regulatory requirements
- Assist with rail flaw detection testing and data collection
- Monitor and interpret data on onboard computer systems
- Perform ground-level rail inspections using handheld equipment
- Perform routine vehicle maintenance (oil, fluids, filters, etc.)
- Assist with the repair and maintenance of the detector carriage and equipment
- Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the vehicle and equipment
- Follow all company safety policies and DOT/FRA regulations
- Wear required PPE at all times
- Complete required training, including annual Road Worker Safety
- Communicate clearly with crew members via radio, intercom, and in-person
- Report safety concerns, equipment issues, and track conditions promptly
- Maintain professional relationships with railroad personnel
Requirements
- Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including climbing steps/ladders frequently, walking on uneven railroad surfaces, bending, kneeling, squatting, crawling for extended periods, working in confined spaces, sitting or driving for extended periods, and lifting up to 85 lbs. (occasionally assisting with over 100 lbs.)
- Ability to distinguish colors (red/green/yellow), read monitors, and meet DOT/FRA vision standards
- Ability to hear verbal communication, alarms, and radio transmissions in a safety-sensitive environment
- Valid CDL Class A or B with air brake endorsement
- Ability to pass a DOT physical, drug screen, and background check (where permitted by law)
- Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
- Basic mechanical aptitude (e.g., changing tires, replacing batteries)
Skills
- Commercial driving
- Vehicle operations
- DOT compliance
- Rail flaw detection testing
- Data collection
- Computer systems operation
- Ground-level rail inspection
- Vehicle maintenance
- Equipment repair and maintenance
- Safety policy adherence
- PPE usage
- Training completion
- Clear communication
- Radio communication
- Intercom communication
- Teamwork
- Professional relationship building
Location
- Field-based
- Multiple job sites
Work Type
- Field-based
- Extensive travel
Experience Level
- 2+ years of commercial driving experience (preferred)
Education Level
- High School Diploma or GED (preferred)
Salary/Compensations
- $21.60 per hour
Benefits
- $1,000 sign-on bonus (after 60 days of employment)
- Extensive travel opportunities
- Hands-on technical experience
- Career growth within a global organization
- Overtime opportunities
- Per diem for meals
- Travel and lodging expenses paid for by Sperry
About the Company
- Sperry Rail Service is a leading global provider of Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) services and technologies for railway networks worldwide.
- With over 95 years of industry leadership, Sperry continues to advance rail safety through innovation, cutting-edge technology, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.
