Locomotive Engineer

Locomotive Operators with Cando are responsible for operating locomotives providing safe and efficient rail car switching services on customer sites and main track. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a company that promotes a strong safety culture, this opportunity is for you!

Cando provides specialized rail operating services. We provide a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, and more. With over 50 operations, we are the 3 largest locomotive fleet in Canada and growing!

Cando Advantages

•   Work Life Balance with Fixed Schedules


• Cando’s Technical and Leadership Training Programs


• Award Winning Safety Culture


• Employee Ownership Program


• Group Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, and Long-Term Disability Insurances


•   Flexible Health & Dental Benefits


•   Canada’s Best Managed Company for 9 years!

Job Description

Locomotive Operator with Cando are responsible for operating locomotives providing safe and efficient rail car switching services on customer sites and main track. Working in a customer-oriented environment, the Locomotive Operator must work well in teams to maximize efficiency and safety, while demonstrating a strong initiative and organizational skills.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Ensure safe train movements and operation of the locomotive including conducting clear and concise job briefings and providing protection of train, track, and equipment


• Apply Canadian Rail Operating Rules, Main Track and Non-Main Track rules, special instructions, and switching procedures while operating as a Locomotive Operator including operating switches and derails, coupling and uncoupling rail cars, managing air hoses, applying and releasing handbrakes


• Perform daily locomotive inspections including locomotive brakes and safety devices; some locations you will need to conduct site track and equipment inspections including air brake tests


• Complete daily reports, logs, and other necessary documents


• Support and assist with all aspects of Cando’s operations on site


• Comply with all applicable operating rules, switching procedures and regulations as required by regulators, customer, host railways and Cando; practice and promote safe work habits


• Promptly report all safety, equipment, and track problems; keep the interior of the locomotives, vehicles, and offices safe, clean, and tidy


• Actively participate with the team and provide excellent customer service while promoting a superior company image


• Participate in training or company initiatives as required

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities

•   Excellent teamwork and strong customer service skills


• Ability to read and write general documentation including safety briefings, operating manuals, and switching lists


• Physically fit including the ability to pull self up and down from a railcar on a continuous basis, able to lift and twist air hoses, able to secure rail car brakes, derails, and switches


• Be willing and able to perform as both a Locomotive Operator and Switchperson


• Be able and willing to work up to 12 hours per shift in all weather conditions during day and night shifts, our sites operate seven (7) days a week, 365 days a year.


• Working knowledge of technology and computer systems with a willingness to use Excel, Outlook, and other web based applications on a daily basis


• Strong problem solving and decision making abilities


• Ability to obtain and maintain required qualifications and Safety Critical Medical clearances including passing Customer and Cando drug and alcohol screening including pre-employment, post incident, and reasonable grounds testing.


• Ability to pass a criminal background check.

Education & Experience

• Grade 12 or GED


• Previous industrial work place or equipment operations experience an asset


• Previous rail experience an asset


• Class 5 drivers license an asset

Note: This description is not intended to limit the assignment of work or be construed as a complete list of the many duties to be performed by the incumbent. The qualifications are provided so interested candidates understand of the level of expertise required in this position.