Railroad Safety Inspector

The mission of the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is to protect and restore the environment, conserve natural resources, and improve the quality of life in the District of Columbia. As the nation's capital city, the District will become a model of environmental protection and sustainable environmental practices. In partnership with other District agencies, the federal government, business groups, non-profit organizations, and residents, the department will help instill environmental awareness through innovation and best practices.

This position is located in the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), Environmental Services Administration, Rail Safety and Emergency Response Division. The incumbent will report directly to the Associate Director or designee. The incumbent will be responsible for administration and enforcement of District and Federal safety laws and regulations that apply to the railroad industry. Promote and enforce standards and regulations concerned with one of the following disciplines within the District of Columbia.

Duties and Responsibilities

Plans and carries out periodic inspections at rail hazardous materials shipper/consignee locations including rail intermodal terminals/van yards, freight forwarders, import/export agents and tank car manufacturing and repair facilities. Responsible for assessing railroad compliance with the carrier’s track inspection process to support compliance with federal regulations within their assigned territory, and the improvement and advancement of Railroad Safety in areas related to track construction, track maintenance, repair activities, and employee safety. Plans and carries out periodic inspections of all signal and train control and highway-rail grade crossing warning systems in a territory to ensure that they are properly installed, operated, tested, and maintained by the railroads.

Examines carriers operating rules, employee qualification guidelines and carrier employee training programs to determine compliance with existing Federal regulations and standards. Conducts periodic inspections by observing railroad employees in performance of operational duties related to the movement of trains for compliance. Responsible for the improvement and advancement of Railroad Safety in areas related to design, construction, inspection, testing, maintenance and use of railroad rolling stock and other related equipment appurtenances. Conduct periodic inspections of railroad cars and locomotives for compliance with federal safety standards.

Qualifications and Education

Specialized Experience: Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position and is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, one (1) year of specialized experience must be equivalent to the next lower grade in the normal line of progression.

Preferred Experience: The ideal candidate for this mid-level professional position should possess a robust technical background in applying current Federal Railroad Safety standards. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential, along with a demonstrated track record of conducting inspections. The candidate must be mission-focused and adept at interfacing with all levels of railroad management, as well as rail labor unions.

License and Certification: Valid driver’s license required. The incumbent will be required to complete the Federal Railroad Administration on the job training program within one year of employment.

Working Conditions/Environment: The work involves a mix of office and fieldwork, including extensive walking on uneven surfaces, bending, crouching, stretching, and crawling in confined spaces during inspections and investigations. Frequent climbing of ladders, steps, and embankments is required. The position may entail exposure to toxic/hazardous chemicals in uncontrolled industrial conditions, necessitating the carrying of testing equipment. Due to physical and health hazards, the use of safety gear is crucial. Continuous participation in health and safety training is mandatory as per OSHA standards.

Other Significant Facts

Tour of Duty: This position is designated as Essential pursuant to Chapter 12 of the D.C. personnel regulations, Hours of Work, Legal Holidays, and Leave.

Pay Plan, Series, Grade: CS-2121-13

Promotion Potential: None

Collective Bargaining Unit: This position is covered under the collective bargaining unit represented by AFGE Local 2725 and you may be required to pay an agency service fee (dues) through direct payroll deduction.

Position Designation: This position is classified as “Safety Sensitive” due to the position’s duties and responsibilities, and is subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of D.C. Personnel Regulations.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.