Machine Operator Details Required In Canada

CPKC is looking for a Machine Operator to join our Section Gang in Cranbrook, British Columbia. This is a full-time role working on railroad tracks laying, repairing, and maintaining the infrastructure that keeps North America’s first transnational railroad running. If you’ve got your Class 3 commercial driver’s license, you’re comfortable operating specialized machinery, and you’re willing to travel extensively across multiple locations, this could be the right fit. The pay ranges from $29.89 to $35.16 per hour, and you’ll be part of a team that takes pride in safety and getting the job done right.

Who We Are

CPKC is North America’s first transnational railroad, connecting the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. We’re not just moving goods—we’re connecting communities, fueling economic growth, and creating meaningful work for people who take pride in what they do. Our culture values diversity, accountability, and pride in a job well done. When you join CPKC, you’re not just building a career you’re part of something bigger. Together, we move goods, connect people, and create lasting change.

What You’ll Be Doing

Operating specialized machinery: You’ll run equipment like ballast cleaning and bed tamping machines to ensure safe and efficient track conditions.
Laying, repairing, and maintaining tracks: You’ll work on railroad tracks for mainline service, plant yards, quarries, sand and gravel pits, and mines.
Ensuring equipment safety: Before use, you’ll verify that track machines and other equipment are in safe operating condition, and confirm appropriate protection measures are in place during operation.
Maintaining and securing equipment: You’ll handle proper storage and maintenance of equipment when not in use, including overnight and idle periods.
Inspecting tools and parts: You’ll check that special tools, spare parts, and attachments are in good working order and stay with the assigned machine.
Managing safety protocols: You’ll allow only authorized personnel on equipment and ensure they’re safely positioned before any movement. When operating independently, you’ll provide adequate protection for the machine and handle switches correctly.
Communicating with the team: You’ll relay track conditions to team members via telephone or radio using clear verbal and written communication.
Working at heights when needed: You’ll be comfortable working on structures with proper fall protection equipment.
Performing additional duties: You’ll take on other tasks as assigned by the Structures Supervisor.

What You’ll Need

High school diploma or equivalency.
Valid Driver’s Class 3 commercial driver license this is essential.
Willingness to travel extensively and work across multiple locations this role requires 50-60% travel.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
Effective verbal and written communication skills to relay track conditions via telephone or radio.
Comfort working on structures at heights with proper fall protection equipment.
Relevant Machine Operator Group credentials and the ability to fulfill all CPKC training requirements.
Willingness to undergo pre-employment requirements including medical assessment, drug testing, criminal history check, education verification, and driver’s license verification.

What CPKC Has to Offer

Competitive hourly rate between $29.89 and $35.16 per hour.
Flexible and competitive benefits package.
Competitive company pension and retirement plans.
Employee share purchase plan.
Annual fitness subsidy to support your wellbeing.
Part-time studies program for those looking to grow their skills.
Union position with the protections and support that come with it.
The chance to be part of North America’s first transnational railroad—work that actually matters.

Pre-Employment Requirements

This is a safety-sensitive position, and successful candidates must pass:

Pre-employment medical assessment including physical, vision, and hearing tests.
Company drug test with negative results. Post-hire qualification drug testing may also be required.
Background investigation including:
Criminal history check
Education verification
Driver’s license verification and driving history

Important Information Before You Apply

This role is based in Cranbrook, British Columbia make sure you can reliably get to this location or are willing to relocate.
Travel requirement is 50-60% you’ll be working across multiple locations, so flexibility is essential.
Class 3 commercial driver’s license is non-negotiable make sure yours is current and valid.
Work at heights and with heavy equipment is part of the job be prepared for the physical demands.
Drug testing and background checks are mandatory only apply if you’re comfortable with these requirements.
No degree mentioned your experience and credentials matter more than formal education.

Commitment to Inclusion

For Canadian applicants, CPKC is an employment equity employer committed to the principles of employment equity and inclusion. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply including women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people with disabilities.

Accommodations for the job application process can be provided, as appropriate, upon request. All applicant information will be managed in accordance with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

Ready to Apply?

If you’ve got the credentials and you’re ready to join a team that moves goods, connects people, and creates lasting change, here’s what to do:

Apply now through the official CPKC channel this position is available to both internal and external candidates.
Make sure your resume clearly shows your Class 3 commercial driver’s license, relevant Machine Operator credentials, and any experience with track maintenance or heavy equipment.
Be prepared for extensive travel and shift work mention your flexibility and willingness to work across locations.
Have your documents ready for verification, including education credentials and driver’s license history.

Your future starts here. Apply today and be part of something bigger with CPKC.