Timber Bridge Construction Trainee - Career Path to Foreman

Lead the Next Generation of Railroad Bridge Crews - Build Your Career with Capital Railroad Services!

Position Title: Timber Bridge Construction Trainee - Career Path to Foreman

Company Name: Capital Railroad Services

Pay Range: $90,000 - $105,000 per year, commensurate with experience

Additional Compensation: $115/day Lodging Allowance (including scheduled weekends)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Industry: Commercial Railroad Construction Services

Job Overview

Capital Railroad Services (CRS) is seeking a highly motivated Timber Bridge Construction Trainee to step into a critical leadership role within our mobile bridge preservation crews. This position is ideal for an experienced field professional ready to advance into crew leadership while working hands-on in timber bridge preservation projects nationwide. You will oversee daily jobsite operations, lead safety efforts, manage crews, and collaborate closely with Project Managers to deliver high-quality work safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

Who We Are

For more than 70 years, Capital Railroad Services has been a trusted partner to the railroad industry, known for our uncompromising safety standards, technical expertise, and commitment to developing long-term careers. From the field to the office, CRS fosters a culture built on accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement. When you join CRS, you're not just taking a job-you're building a career with a company that invests in your success.

Key Responsibilities

Manage daily jobsite operations for timber preservation bridge projects

Supervise and lead crews of 5-8 employees

Conduct daily job briefings and safety meetings

Execute work in alignment with overall project schedules

Plan and manage worksite access (rail, roadways, private property) and secure required permissions

Ensure proper setup, inspection, and safe operation of all tools and equipment

Communicate personnel changes, issues, or concerns to the Project Manager promptly

Coordinate daily with the Project Manager regarding production goals, quality standards, resources, and scope changes

Assemble, operate, and maintain records related to pile driving operations (including tonnage reporting)

Operate job-specific tools and equipment, including drills, generators, impact wrenches, pneumatic and hydraulic tools, magnetic drills, torches, and chainsaws

Work at heights using lineman/climbing gear and perform work on slopes and rough terrain

Oversee installation, use, maintenance, and removal of scaffolding systems

Assist with timber treatment operations and identify bridge components requiring preservation

Collect and record data for final bridge inspection and treatment reports

Order materials and coordinate equipment needs for assigned projects

Accurately report crew hours and complete daily production reports by required deadlines

Monitor crew productivity and implement continuous improvement efforts

Train, mentor, and evaluate crew members to support development and performance

Enforce company policies, procedures, and safety regulations at all times

Coordinate equipment maintenance, repairs, and rentals as needed

Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, HR, Safety, and other departments

Support CRS's strong safety culture in partnership with the Safety Department

Ensure DOT compliance, including E-logs, vehicle inspections, fuel records, and weekly reporting Qualifications

Required:

High School Diploma or GED

Supervisory experience directing and organizing field crews

Knowledge of job-specific tools and equipment used in bridge and timber preservation work

Experience with scaffolding setup, inspection, and safe use

Knowledge of bridge construction methods, components, and repair techniques

Ability to complete required safety training (respirator, gas mask, lead exposure, fall protection)

Willingness to travel 100% of the time on a 6-week on / 1-week off rotation

Ability to work at heights and in challenging outdoor environments

Strong commitment to safety policies, procedures, and regulations

Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

Basic computer skills for daily use of smartphones, laptops, and electronic reporting

Valid Driver's License with a favorable driving record

Ability to gain and maintain E-Railsafe clearance

Preferred:

Class A CDL (Hazmat endorsement or willingness to obtain)

Experience operating hi-rail equipment

Prior railroad or bridge construction experience Benefits

Capital Railroad Services offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match

Generous Paid Time Off, including:

Paid Vacation

Paid Holidays

Paid Bereavement Leave

Travel Assistance Program to support work/life balance

Life Insurance (Employee, Spouse, and Dependent)

Paid Short-Term Disability

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Company-provided PPE, tools, equipment, vehicles, and transportation

Paid training and long-term career development opportunities Work Schedule

Full-Time

Rotational Travel Schedule: 6 weeks on / 1 week off

Typically includes 1-2 weekend days off during work weeks, in addition to the scheduled rotation week off Work Location

This role requires 100% travel on a rotational schedule, with company-provided transportation between job sites.

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

A professional review will be completed as part of the onboarding process, in compliance with applicable laws.