Tamper Operator - Railway Maintenance

Railserve

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.

Railserve

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.

Railserve, Track Services is hiring dependable, safety focused Tamper Operator based in Indiana to support track construction and maintenance projects. This is a hands-on, outdoor role requiring travel to various job sites and working in physically demanding enviroments.

Who Are We

Railserve is a leading provider of industrial railyard services across the United States and Canada. Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive service and repair for customers who depend on safe, reliable rail operations every day. With decades of industry experience, Railserve is built on a foundation of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence. We invest in our people, promote from within, and use innovative, safety-focused technology to keep railyards running efficiently. Learn more at www.Railserve.com

Job Description

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.
Schedule: Full-time, schedule varies based on project needs, travel, and site requirments.

Compensation: Based on years of experience

Duties:

• 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.

Job Requirments:

• 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).
• 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.

Familiarity with railway maintenance practices and safety standards (e.g., AREMA, FRA regulations).

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