General Manager Railroad Operations

About Us:

A&K Railroad Materials is a leading supplier of new and used railroad track materials. A&K has sales offices and a network of storage and distribution facilities strategically located throughout the United States. Together, these offices and inventory locations maintain an extensive and comprehensive inventory of track materials across the nation. Our mission is to provide innovative solutions to promote lasting railway infrastructure.

Job Description:

The General Manager of Railway Operations plays a pivotal role in reviewing, recommending, and implementing operational processes to optimize efficiency. This position is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of A&K's affiliated Railroad Operations, including the Natchez Railway in Mississippi, the V&S Railway in Kansas, and ten railcar storage locations. As a key participant in the business planning process, the General Manager ensures alignment with customer expectations and the company's business objectives.

Responsibilities:

• Influence the strategic direction, provide leadership, and offer support for the Railroad Operations.
• Ensure strict compliance with all railroad rules, safety regulations, and Federal Railroad Association (FRA) guidelines.
• Plan, direct and coordinate the day-to-day operations, encompassing train and crew scheduling, locomotive assignments, and maintenance coordination.
• Cultivate relationships and communicate effectively with customers, prospective customers and communities served by the railroads.
• Represent A&K before government officials, state legislators, and business leaders to foster business development.
• Develop and negotiate market-based rates with customers and connecting carriers.
• Conduct thorough analysis in areas such as efficiency, job cost, and work schedule efficiency; propose and implement continuous process improvements.
• Directly supervise employees of each railroad; promote safe and productive work environment; ensure employees are fully trained and qualified for the roles being performed; recruit new railroad employees as needed.
• Enforce applicable policies, laws, rules, and regulations among railroad employees.
• Lead incident and accident investigations, identify root causes, and recommend changes to minimize the risk of recurrence.
• Monitor the accuracy of car movement records.
• Assist in overseeing the overall financial performance of the railroad, including P&L, yearly budgeting, quarterly forecasting, and reporting to senior leadership.
• Monitor condition of facilities; recommend improvements to senior management; obtain competitive bids; oversee improvement projects.
• Manage and oversee routine expenditures.
• Demonstrate leadership aligned with the company's strategic goals.
• Travel as needed to Railroad Operations.
• Other projects and duties as required.

Qualifications:

• Qualified and experienced in one or more of the following in accordance with FRA requirements: Locomotive Engineer (FRA 240), Conductor (FRA 242), and/or Roadmaster (FRA 231.7).
• 5-10 years of experience in Railroad Operations.
• 3-5 years of supervisory experience in Railroad Operations.
• Thorough knowledge of and compliance with FRA requirements specific to Railroad Operations and train movement.
• Comprehensive understanding of Railroad Operations, covering Transportation, Maintenance of Way, Mechanical, and clerical activities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Professional integrity and accountability.

A&K Railroad Materials, Inc. offers a promising opportunity to build a solid career with competitive pay and an attractive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and a 401K retirement plan.