CN is looking for Permanent Machine Operators to join our track maintenance teams. If you enjoy working outdoors, operating heavy equipment, and being part of a crew that keeps the railroad running safely, this could be a solid fit. You’ll be running on- and off-track machinery, maintaining track infrastructure, and working with a team that takes safety seriously. This is meaningful work—the kind where you can actually see what you’ve accomplished at the end of the day.
Who We Are
CN has been moving North America’s economy since 1919. We’re a premium railroad that safely transports natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods across a 20,000-mile network connecting Canada’s coasts to the U.S. South. But more than that, we’re a team of railroaders who take pride in doing things right safety first, integrity always, and accountability for our actions. We believe in succeeding together, which means fostering an inclusive environment where everyone’s contribution matters. If you’re looking for a career that actually means something, this is the place to build it.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Operating heavy equipment: You’ll run on- and off-track machinery to support track repair and maintenance activities across your assigned territory.
- Maintaining track infrastructure: You’ll remove and replace defective ties, rails, spikes, and anchors. You’ll correct issues with track surface, alignment, and gauge.
- Installing and repairing crossings: Street and railroad crossings need regular attention, and you’ll be part of the crew handling that work.
- Distributing track material: You’ll make sure materials are where they need to be for ongoing maintenance tasks.
- Clearing right-of-way: Brush, vegetation, snow, and litter all need to be cleared from the railroad right-of-way to keep operations running smoothly.
- Managing drainage: You’ll establish and maintain proper drainage along the track to prevent issues before they start.
- Inspecting and maintaining equipment: You’ll keep the machinery you operate in good working condition through regular inspections and basic maintenance.
- Wearing multiple hats: When machine operation isn’t required, you’ll perform other duties like track inspection and general track maintenance.
- Following safety standards: Every task you do will be guided by track safety standards, operating rules, and safe work procedures.
What You’ll Need
- A high school diploma or equivalent General Education Diploma (GED).
- A valid driver’s license to get where you need to be.
- Willingness to work shifts and occasional overtime as required.
- The ability to work outdoors in various weather and environmental conditions—this is not a desk job.
- Physical stamina to perform repetitive activities throughout your shift and lift up to 50 pounds regularly, and up to 70 pounds occasionally.
- Good eye-hand coordination and grasping ability for operating equipment safely.
- Basic personal tools for equipment maintenance you’ll need to supply these yourself.
- The ability to collaborate with your crew and share information effectively.
- Active listening skills to take direction and stay safe on the job.
Assets That Will Help You Stand Out:
- Relevant work experience in similar working conditions.
- Post-secondary trade education.
- Experience or training in mechanical work.
- Knowledge of signals or Rail Operating Rules.
What You’ll Get
- Competitive wages and benefits governed by the applicable Collective Agreement.
- Paid training including four weeks at a CN Campus in Winnipeg, MB, plus on-the-job training to build your skills.
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance to keep you and your family covered.
- Defined Benefits Pension Plan to help you build for retirement.
- Employee Share Investment Plan so you can own a piece of the company.
- Educational Financial Assistance Program if you want to keep learning.
- Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to connect with colleagues who share your experiences.
- Generous Employee Discount Program for everyday savings.
- Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) and Telemedicine Service for when you need support.
- A career that matters with a company that’s been part of North America’s economy for over a century.
The Hiring Process
If you’re interested in this role, here’s what to expect:
- Apply through the original job posting.
- Medical assessment including drug, hearing, and vision testing.
- Criminal background check as part of our commitment to safety.
- Offer Letter for successful candidates.
Paid Training Structure:
- 4 weeks at CN Campus in Winnipeg, MB, focused on health and safety rules and regulatory requirements. Successful completion is required to continue employment.
Ready to Apply?
If this sounds like the kind of career you’ve been looking for, we’d like to hear from you. Even if you don’t meet every single requirement listed, we still encourage you to apply. Research shows that candidates often don’t apply unless they feel they fit a job posting at 100%, but we’re interested in the whole picture.
- Apply through the original job posting to make sure your application reaches the right team.
- Monitor your email regularly because that’s how we’ll communicate with you throughout the process.
- If you need accommodation for the recruitment process alternate formats, accessible meeting rooms, or other support—please email [email protected].
We’re an equal opportunity employer, and qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected status as required by law.
Let’s get your career moving.