Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
Timeline
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Jerry Swafford, Jr.

Valley Springs,CA

Summary

Dynamic Locomotive Engineer with Union Pacific, recognized for optimizing fuel efficiency and enhancing safety protocols. Expert in train operation and troubleshooting, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Proven ability to navigate complex rail networks while ensuring regulatory compliance and effective communication among crew members, resulting in increased punctuality and customer satisfaction.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience

Work History

Locomotive Engineer

Union Pacific
03.2004 - Current
  • Coordinated with yardmasters to ensure the efficient movement of trains within rail yards, optimizing space utilization and minimizing delays.
  • Inspected locomotives before and after runs.
  • Operated locomotives to transport freight and other materials.
  • Examined locomotives to verify adequate fuel, sand, water and other supplies before each run.
  • Assisted in training new Locomotive Engineers, sharing knowledge and best practices for optimal job performance.
  • Reduced fuel consumption with strategic train handling techniques, resulting in significant cost savings.
  • Climbed on and off train cars to set or release hand brakes, couple and uncouple air hoses between rail cars and remove and replace broken knuckles.
  • Maneuvered locomotives to transport freight or passengers between stations.
  • Strengthened communication between crew members through regular briefings and debriefings, fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Skillfully operated multiple types of locomotives across diverse terrains, displaying adaptability and flexibility in challenging situations.
  • Checked speed and air pressure of locomotive at various points throughout route.
  • Conferred with conductors and traffic control center personnel via radio phones to issue and receive information concerning stops, delays and oncoming trains.
  • Monitored gauges and meters to measure speed, amperage, battery charge and air pressure in brake lines and main reservoirs.
  • Successfully navigated complex rail networks using detailed maps, GPS technology, and keen observation skills while operating trains in various weather conditions.
  • Worked with conductors and assistants to drive locomotives safely.
  • Demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement by participating in company-wide safety initiatives and attending regular training sessions.
  • Quickly resolved technical issues related to locomotives'' mechanical systems, reducing potential delays or malfunctions during trips.
  • Maximized productivity by effectively managing time and resources while on duty, resulting in high levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Improved rail safety by conducting thorough pre-trip inspections and adhering to industry regulations.
  • Increased punctuality by maintaining strict schedules and coordinating closely with dispatchers and other railway personnel.
  • Promoted a culture of safety by consistently enforcing company policies and procedures for all crew members.
  • Moved controls such as throttles and air brakes to drive electric, diesel-electric, steam or gas-turbine-electric locomotives.
  • Operated automated systems to propel trains, add or remove cars and switch cars around to unload freight.
  • Interpreted and relayed hand and lantern signals affecting movement of train and controlled speed and clearance distance of cars.
  • Collaborated with track maintenance teams to identify potential hazards or areas requiring repairs before incidents occurred.
  • Optimized locomotive performance through regular preventive maintenance, minimizing unscheduled downtime.
  • Maintained accurate records of shipments transported along assigned routes, ensuring proper documentation for regulatory compliance purposes.
  • Ensured timely deliveries by carefully planning routes and monitoring train progress throughout each trip.
  • Inspected locomotives for operational readiness by making FRA and company-required checks and tests.
  • Developed strong relationships with customers, ensuring smooth coordination during loading and unloading operations at rail yards or sidings.
  • Observed tracks to detect obstructions such as trees, broken rails, rocks, landslides, heat kinks, water above the rail, other equipment (pedestrians/vehicles), etc.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency by maintaining locomotive equipment and troubleshooting issues as they arose.
  • Prepare reports regarding problems encountered such as accidents, signaling problems, unscheduled stops, and delays.
  • Monitored train-loading procedures to load and unload freight without damage.
  • Interpreted train orders, signals or railroad rules and regulations that governed locomotive operation.
  • Monitored gauges or meters that measured speed, amperage or air pressure in brake lines or main reservoirs.
  • Received starting signals from conductors and used controls such as throttles or air brakes to drive electric, steam or gas turbine-electric locomotives.
  • Conferred with conductors or traffic control center personnel via radiophones to issue or receive stops, delays or oncoming train information.
  • Observed tracks to detect obstructions.
  • Mountain Grade Qualified Engineer
  • DPU/Cut in Helper Qualified
  • Ascending/Descending Qualified Helper Service

Skills

  • Safety rules and regulations
  • Train control systems
  • Railroad signaling understanding
  • Two-way communication device use
  • Continuous learning mindset
  • Train operation expertise
  • Yard operations
  • On-board inspections
  • Train control apparatus tests
  • Car coupling
  • Brake control operation
  • Federal regulations compliance
  • Track switch operation
  • Electric freight locomotives
  • Locomotive troubleshooting
  • Switching maneuvers
  • Fuel efficiency optimization
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Engine tests

Timeline

Locomotive Engineer

Union Pacific
03.2004 - Current
Jerry Swafford, Jr.