2006 - 2008: Conductor/Switchman (BNSF Operations Department, Spokane, Vancouver, Seattle & Everett WA)
- Safety and compliance: Ensure the train adheres to all train orders, signals, and federal regulations (FRA).
- Train operations: Coordinate with the engineer on the train's movement, including speed requirements, and make adjustments for weather or track conditions.
- Communication: Use radio and telephone to communicate with dispatchers, yardmasters, and the engineer to receive instructions and report on train status.
- Inspections: Conduct pre-trip and ongoing inspections of all equipment and cars, documenting any mechanical issues.
- Crew and cargo management: Oversee the safe loading and unloading of cargo, and manage the train's configuration by coupling and uncoupling cars.
- Paperwork and documentation: Maintain and manage the necessary paperwork, including train orders, switch lists, and cargo information
2008 - 2011. Claims Manager (BNSF Law Department, Spokane, Vancouver & Pasco WA)
- Investigate and process claims: Review claim details, gather evidence, and analyze information to determine the validity and value of claims, which can include personal injury claims or freight damage claims.
- Research and analyze data: Identify trends in claims data and generate reports. This may involve using internal databases and systems to track and analyze claim information.
- Communicate with stakeholders: Interact with policyholders, claimants, internal departments, and legal counsel to explain the claims process, gather necessary information, and negotiate settlements.
- Ensure compliance: Adhere to all relevant regulations, such as the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), and internal company policies and procedures.
- Resolve disputes: Work to resolve claims efficiently and fairly, often in a fast-paced environment.
- Maintain documentation: Keep detailed and accurate records of all claims activity, including investigations, communications, and settlements
- Work with inside and outside counsel for trail/litigation preparation, to include but not limited to: Discovery, investigations, questioning witnesses and jury selection.
2011 - 2015 Trainmaster (BNSF Operations Department, Spokane & Wenatchee WA)
- Supervise and direct crews: Oversee train and engine service employees, coordinate their activities, and provide leadership and support to ensure safe and efficient operations.
- Ensure safety and compliance: Promote a culture of safety, enforce compliance with all federal railroad administration (FRA) and company rules, and conduct safety briefings.
- Coordinate operations: Plan and execute the daily operating plan, including managing train make-up, ensuring locomotives are ready, and coordinating with customers and other departments.
- Manage personnel: Provide performance feedback, handle employee-related paperwork and requests, and administer disciplinary action when necessary.
- Investigate incidents: Take the lead in investigating accidents and incidents to determine causes and recommend solutions.
- Monitor performance and costs: Keep track of key performance metrics, including locomotive usage and fuel efficiency.
2015 - 2019: Terminal Manager (BNSF Operations Department, Pasco WA)
- Operational oversight: Manage and coordinate all day-to-day activities, such as loading, unloading, and the movement of cars and locomotives within the terminal.
- Staff and people management: Supervise employees, conduct safety briefings, manage attendance policies, handle personnel paperwork, and develop staff for operational readiness. Oversaw 20 Frontline Supervisors and approximately 150 TYE employees
- Safety and compliance: Lead safety initiatives, ensure compliance with all BNSF and Federal Railroad Administration rules, investigate accidents, and conduct safety meetings and audits.
- Customer and interdepartmental coordination: Communicate with customers regarding shipments, and work with other departments to execute operational plans and provide efficient service.
- Performance and efficiency: Monitor costs, manage budget implement new procedures to improve efficiency, and respond to unexpected situations and tight deadlines.
2019 - Present: Trainmaster (BNSF Operations Department, Spokane WA & Hauser ID)
Job description same as Trainmaster description above.
BNSF was gracious enough to let me demote myself from Terminal Manager in Pasco back to a Trainmaster in Spokane due to a divorce and child custody issues.