Volunteer Yard and Train Crew

Volunteer Yard & Train Crew Member

Position Type: Volunteer / Active Paid Membership Required

Reports to: Vice President & or President

Position Summary

We are seeking dependable, hardworking individuals who are interested in railroads, trains, and hands-on volunteer work to join our Yard & Train Crew.

This position is a great opportunity for members who want to become more involved with the organization, learn about railroad equipment and operations, work around trains, and help maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming railroad property.

Volunteers in this position must maintain an active paid membership with the organization.

Responsibilities

• Assist with general cleanup and organization of the railroad yard and property.
• Pick up trash, debris, scrap materials, and other items around the grounds.
• Help keep work areas, buildings, equipment areas, and public spaces clean and orderly.
• Assist with basic groundskeeping and seasonal cleanup projects.
• Help move, organize, and store tools, supplies, and materials.
• Assist experienced volunteers with railroad equipment and train-related projects.
• Help clean and prepare railroad cars, locomotives, and other equipment.
• Participate in workdays and special projects throughout the year.
• Assist with train operations and events when properly trained and authorized.
• Follow all safety procedures while working around railroad equipment, tracks, tools, and moving trains.
• Use tools and equipment only when trained and authorized to do so.
• Work cooperatively with board members, staff, volunteers, and fellow members.
• Help maintain a professional and positive appearance of the railroad property.
• Complete other yard, maintenance, and railroad-related tasks as assigned by the CMO and President.

Qualifications

• Must be or become an active paid member of the organization.
• Strong interest in railroads, trains, railroad history, or hands-on volunteer work.
• Dependable and willing to work as part of a team.
• Willing to perform outdoor and physical work.
• Comfortable working around railroad tracks, equipment, tools, dirt, grease, and outdoor conditions.
• Able to follow instructions and established safety procedures.
• Willing to learn new skills.
• Previous railroad, mechanical, maintenance, landscaping, construction, or equipment experience is helpful but not required.

Train & Equipment Opportunities

Members who demonstrate reliability, follow safety requirements, and complete any required training may have opportunities to become more involved with:

• Railroad equipment maintenance
• Locomotive and railcar projects
• Train preparation
• Special event operations
• Train crew activities
• Yard operations
• Railroad restoration projects

Participation in train operations or specialized equipment work is based on training, experience, organizational needs, and authorization from the CMO and President.

Volunteer Commitment

Volunteer opportunities will vary throughout the year depending on weather, projects, train operations, events, and maintenance needs.

Members are encouraged to participate in scheduled workdays and assist whenever their availability allows.

Why Join?

This position is a great opportunity to:

• Gain hands-on railroad experience.
• Learn from experienced railroad volunteers.
• Work around historic trains and railroad equipment.
• Develop maintenance, mechanical, teamwork, and operational skills.
• Help improve and preserve the railroad property.
• Meet others who share an interest in railroads.
• Become more involved in train operations as skills and experience are developed.

No previous railroad experience is required — just a willingness to work, learn, help the team, and get your hands dirty.