Hydraulic & Pneumatic Quality Inspector (Entry to Mid-Level) at Plasser American Corp – Chesapeake, Virginia

Some see the railway as transportation, while at Plasser American we see it as transformation. The story of how steel tracks turned the American promise into American progress and forged a trusted pathway to the possibilities of the future. It’s a story that continues today, an American legacy unfolding mile by mile. There is a lot riding on those tracks and we know that support, quality and know-how are all important aspects in staying on track.

That’s why the Plasser American tradition begins with a promise. A promise to do things right. An unapologetic commitment to quality that makes us the longtime trusted leader in cutting edge American made innovations for the North American railway. It’s a promise to see things differently to turn ordinary steel into safer passages. To be a partner that you can count on to engineer solutions for the challenges of today and for the opportunities of tomorrow. From research and design, expert manufacturing and delivering unapparelled services, our customers trust us to keep them ahead of the curve.

Progress is about more than getting from Point A to Point B. It’s knowing you have a trusted foundation to move you forward toward new possibilities waiting around the corner. Join Plasser American to become part of our team forging ahead towards new opportunities in railway maintenance. The railway is a path to the future, choose this path and apply today.

Job Title: Hydraulic & Pneumatic Quality Inspector (Entry to Mid-Level)

Job Summary:
The Hydraulic & Pneumatic Quality Inspector supports the maintenance, overhaul, and quality assurance of Maintenance-of-Way (MOW) railroad equipment. This role inspects hydraulic and pneumatic components and systems used on tampers, ballast regulators, tie inserters, hi-rail equipment, and other track maintenance machinery. The inspector verifies that all repairs, replacements, and rebuilds meet railroad safety standards, engineering requirements, and internal quality procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Inspect and test hydraulic and pneumatic components used in MOW equipment, including cylinders, pumps, valves, hoses, manifolds, air systems, and braking components.

Perform pressure, leak, and functional tests on rebuilt or repaired components using appropriate test stands and measurement tools.

Verify compliance with OEM specifications, FRA-related guidelines (as applicable), and company quality standards.

Conduct dimensional and visual inspections using calipers, gauges, and measurement instruments.

Review and interpret engineering drawings, hydraulic schematics, pneumatic diagrams, and maintenance manuals specific to MOW machinery.

Document inspection findings, nonconformances, and test results accurately in quality records and digital systems.

Support root-cause analysis and corrective actions for recurring hydraulic/pneumatic failures on MOW equipment.

Collaborate with technicians, mechanics, engineers, and supervisors to maintain repair quality and equipment reliability.

Maintain testing equipment and ensure all gauges and precision tools are calibrated and safe for use.

Promote a safe work environment and adhere to railroad safety policies, lockout/tagout procedures, and PPE requirements.

Qualifications

Required:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Basic knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems used in heavy machinery or mobile equipment.

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and maintenance documentation.

Skill in using inspection tools such as dial indicators, micrometers, calipers, pressure gauges, and flow meters.

Strong attention to detail, documentation accuracy, and safety awareness.

Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, or similar tools).

Good communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.

Preferred (Beneficial for Mid-Level):

Experience working with or inspecting MOW equipment, heavy construction equipment, or industrial hydraulic systems.

Familiarity with AAR, FRA guidelines, or railroad maintenance best practices.

Understanding of contamination control, hydraulic oil cleanliness standards, and hose assembly practices.

Knowledge of quality systems such as ISO 9001.

Understanding of contamination control, hydraulic oil cleanliness standards, and hose assembly practices.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift 25–50 lbs and handle heavy hydraulic components.

Ability to stand, kneel, climb, and work around large mobile machinery.

Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors in a rail-yard or heavy-equipment shop environment.

Benefits:

• Accrue 80 Hours of Paid Time Off during your first year of employment
• 10 Paid Holidays per year
• 401(k) match of $0.50 for every $1.00 you contribute up to 6% of your salary
• You may receive a merit bonus after completion of the audit at the end of the fiscal year
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Free Short and Long Term Disability after 90 days of employment
• Free Life Insurance – 2 times your annual salary
• Company Events
• Free employee medical and dental coverage. – valued at $7,500.00

About Plasser American:

As part of the Plasser family brand, which is the largest Maintenance of Way equipment provider in the world, PAC is a rapidly growing provider of railway equipment in North America. Continuing for the next few years, PAC will continue to make significant investments in the North American Market including a new office building and a substantial addition to our manufacturing facility. PAC is making the needed investments to continue its growth trajectory for many years to come. The next several years will be an exciting time of transformation. We look to the future to enhance our team and achieve our goals.