Chief Mechanical Officer

Job description

The Chief Mechanical Officer (CMO) is a critical leadership position responsible for the mechanical integrity, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency of the locomotive fleet. This role blends strategic fleet management with "boots-on-the-ground" technical expertise. The CMO ensures that all locomotives are maintained to the highest safety standards while optimizing power usage and minimizing downtime to support the railroad’s mission. ### Key Responsibilities - **Regulatory Compliance & Safety:** Maintain absolute adherence to **CFR Title 49 (Parts 223, 224, 229, 231, & 232)**. Oversee all **Blue Card documentation**, including precise Out-of-Use and inspection date calculations, ensuring all record-keeping is precisely correct, in the event of being audited by the FRA. - **Technical Leadership:** Act as the primary subject matter expert for **EMD and GE locomotives**, as well as various engine platforms (Cummins, MTU, etc.). Perform advanced troubleshooting across mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems. - **Fleet Management & Optimization:** Monitor fleet usage to maximize power availability and minimize fuel consumption. Plan long-term maintenance schedules to ensure zero "Out of Service" (OOS) status during peak seasonal demands. - **Environmental Stewardship:** Manage maintenance protocols for **Tiered Emission locomotives** to ensure compliance with EPA regulations and internal sustainability goals. - **Training & Mentorship:** Develop and deliver technical training programs for mechanical personnel, focusing on troubleshooting techniques, EPA compliance, and the use of internal maintenance software. **Strategic Planning:** Future-proof the fleet by researching and implementing technological advancements and updating fleet requirements as the industry evolves. ### Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) **Technical Expertise** - **Extensive Locomotive Troubleshooting:** Proven ability to diagnose complex failures and read/interpret electrical schematics. - **Multi-Platform Knowledge:** Deep understanding of EMD & GE locomotive systems, including mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic components. - **General Engine Proficiency:** Familiarity with a diverse range of engines including Cummins, MTU, EMD, and GE. **Regulatory & Administrative** - **Legal Literacy:** Comprehensive knowledge of **49 CFR Subtitle B, Chapter 2**, specifically regarding safety glazing (223), reflectorization (224), locomotive safety standards (229), safety appliance standards (231), and brake system safety (232). - **Documentation Mastery:** Expert-level knowledge of Blue Card requirements and EPA-mandated record keeping. **Strategic & Managerial** - **Project Management:** Ability to structure workloads, manage shop flow, and plan complex overhaul projects. - **Resource Efficiency:** Skilled in monitoring power optimization to enhance operational efficiency. **Adaptability:** A forward-thinking mindset regarding locomotive technology and industry shifts. ### Experience and Requirements - **Industry Experience:** A minimum of **5 years (8-10 preferred)** of progressive experience in locomotive mechanical maintenance and railroad operations is strictly required. - **Education:** While no specific degree or certification is required, the candidate must demonstrate a career trajectory that reflects mastery of the KSAs listed above. - **Physical Demands:** Ability to work in railroad shop and field environments, including climbing on/off equipment and working in various weather conditions.