Manager, Rail Lubrication

at CN in Homewood, Illinois, United States

Job Description

At CN, everyday brings new and exciting challenges. You can expect an interesting environment where you’re part of making sure our business is running optimally and safely?helping keep the economy on track. We provide the kind of paid training and opportunities that long-term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close-knit, safety-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!

Job Summary

The Manager, Rail Lubrication is responsible for extending the life of rail by overseeing the rail lubrication program. The position is accountable for developing CN’s lubrication strategy and setting standards related to lubrication. Furthermore, the role works with Supply Management to negotiate and handle service and supply contracts, monitors the performance of lubrication assets and takes corrective action as required.

Main Responsibilities

Technical Oversight

· Develop a system to monitor effectiveness of lubrication systems across the network (e.g., remote monitoring, field audits and rail wear rates)

· Develop the long-term and short-term capital plan

· Set standards related to installation of lubrication systems, maintenance, and operation

· Negotiate contracts related to lubrication services and materials

· Handle the operating and capital expenditures (CapEx) budget related to rail lubrication

· Develop and maintain the lubrication strategy across the network, including the cost and benefit analysis

· Maintain a good understanding of current and emerging trends in friction management

· Develop and maintain standards and best practices related to friction management

· Act as a Subject Matter Expert for the other Engineering managers

People

· Coach, mentor, and guide team members to ensure they have the necessary tools and support to succeed

· Carry out performance management including setting and monitoring Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

· Conduct regular performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and development to team members

· Participate in the selection and recruitment of new team members

· Carry out disciplinary actions when necessary and be familiar with the applicable employee collective agreements

· Communicate with union representatives, including handling issues related to grievances and investigations

· Participate in succession planning and career development activities

· Ensure team members receive appropriate training and are up to date on all training requirements

· Lead and participate in regular staff meetings

Operational Oversight

· Develop and maintain a program to monitor effectiveness of the friction management program

· Monitor down time of lubricator equipment via remote monitoring and field inspection

· Review rail wear rates to confirm effectiveness of lubrication and identify areas for investment or change

· Work with Supply Management to negotiate contracts for services, equipment and supplies

· Perform track inspections with the local Engineering team to address friction management issues

Cost Control

· Monitor costs related to friction management versus benefits

· Oversee the day-to-day contractors delivering lubrication services

· Develop and implement the capital plan for purchase and installation of lubrication equipment

· Handle all costs related to friction management

· Participate in track inspections with the local Engineering team

· Comply with Company and department safety targets

Working Conditions

The role is primarily performed outdoors in various types of weather and environmental conditions. The role requires being available on-call 24/7 to respond to critical incidents. The role requires frequent travel (80%) to field sites across CN’s network in Canada and the United States (U.S.). Due to the nature of the role, the incumbent must be able to meet tight deadlines, handle pressure, and have good people management skills.

Requirements

Experience

Rail Flaw Detection, Welding, Grinding, or Lubrication

· Minimum 2 years of experience in rail flaw detection, welding, grinding or lubrication*

o Experience in track maintenance

o Experience leading supervisory and unionized employees

o Experience in analytics

Education/Certification/Designation

· High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)

· Valid Driver’s Licence

· Track Inspection Guidelines certified

· Canadian Rail Operating Rules certified

· Postsecondary Degree or Diploma in Engineering, Material Science or a related field*

*Any designation for these above would be considered as an asset

Competencies

· Leads by example for safety of all

· Identifies potential safety and security risks

· Identifies needs and finds solutions to create value for all stakeholders

· Collaborates with others and shares information

· Sets directions and inspires others

· Communicates with impact

· Demonstrates agility and drives change

Technical Skills/Knowledge

· Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel)

· Ability to understand and apply collective agreements

· Previous knowledge of rail lubrication and rail maintenance*

*Any knowledge for these above would be considered as an asset

About CN

CN is a world-class transportation leader and trade-enabler. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. As the only railroad connecting Canada’s Eastern and Western coasts with the Southern tip of the U.S. through a 19,500 mile rail network, CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship. At CN, we work as ONE TEAM, focused on safety, sustainability and our customers, providing operational and supply chain excellence to deliver results.

CN is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation. Only qualified candidates under consideration will be contacted. Please monitor your email on a regular basis, as communication is primarily made through email.