About the Role
Sperry Rail Service is a global provider of Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) services. This field-based CDL driving position requires extensive travel throughout the US, 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
- Climb steps/ladders frequently (up to 300 steps per day)
- Walk on uneven railroad surfaces
- Bend, kneel, squat, and crawl for extended periods
- Work in confined spaces (including under vehicles with ~18-inch clearance)
- Sit or drive for extended periods
- Lift up to 85 lbs., occasionally assist 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 support
- Data monitoring
- Ground-level rail inspection
- Vehicle maintenance
- Equipment repair
- Safety compliance
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Mechanical aptitude
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
- Overtime opportunities
Benefits
- $1,000 sign-on bonus (after 60 days of employment)
- Extensive travel opportunities
- Hands-on technical experience
- Career growth within a global organization
- 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.
- Over 95 years of industry leadership.
- Advances rail safety through innovation, cutting-edge technology, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.
