Top 10 Questions for Track Service Person Interview

1. How would you troubleshoot a track circuit failure?

• Verify that the power supply to the track circuit is functioning correctly.
• Check the track circuit relay to ensure that it is operating properly.
• Inspect the track circuit for any loose connections or broken wires.
• Test the track circuit using a track circuit tester to identify any faults.
• Replace any faulty components, such as the track circuit relay or the track circuit itself.

2. What are the different types of track circuits and how do they work?

DC track circuits

• DC track circuits use a direct current (DC) to power the track circuit.
• The DC current flows through the rails and the track circuit relay.
• When a train enters the track circuit, it shorts out the relay, which de-energizes the relay and opens the track circuit.

AC track circuits

• AC track circuits use an alternating current (AC) to power the track circuit.
• The AC current flows through the rails and the track circuit relay.
• When a train enters the track circuit, it shorts out the relay, which de-energizes the relay and opens the track circuit.

3. What are the different types of track switches and how do they work?

• Turnouts
• Crossovers
• Slips

4. What are the different types of track maintenance equipment and how are they used?

• Track tampers
• Track liners
• Track grinders
• Track inspection vehicles

5. What are the different types of track safety devices and how do they work?

• Automatic train stop (ATS)
• Automatic train control (ATC)
• Positive train control (PTC)

6. What are the different types of track inspection methods and how are they used?

• Visual inspection
• Ultrasonic inspection
• Eddy current inspection
• Ground penetrating radar (GPR)

7. What are the different types of track repair methods and how are they used?

• Rail replacement
• Tie replacement
• Ballast replacement
• Track surfacing

8. What are the different types of track construction methods and how are they used?

• Cut and fill
• Embankment
• Trestle
• Tunnel

9. What are the different types of track maintenance standards and how are they enforced?

• Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
• American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA)
• International Union of Railways (UIC)

10. What are the different types of track safety regulations and how are they enforced?

• Federal Railroad Safety Act (FRSA)
• FRA Track Safety Standards
• AREMA Track Safety Standards
• UIC Track Safety Standards

A Track Service Person plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth and safe railway operations. Their primary responsibilities encompass:

1. Track Maintenance and Inspection

Inspect and maintain railway tracks, switches, and related infrastructure. This includes checking for defects, performing repairs, and ensuring track integrity.

• Conduct regular track inspections to identify potential problems and implement corrective actions.
• Repair and replace damaged rails, switches, and other track components.

2. Rail Grinding and Reconditioning

Operate rail grinding and reconditioning equipment to maintain optimal track surface conditions. This involves removing surface imperfections and restoring rail profiles.

• Use specialized equipment to grind and recondition rail surfaces, reducing noise and improving train performance.
• Inspect and measure rail profiles to ensure compliance with safety standards.

3. Vegetation Management

Control and remove vegetation along railway tracks to prevent interference with train operations and ensure safety.

• Inspect tracks for overgrown vegetation and conduct regular maintenance to remove it.
• Use herbicides and other methods to control vegetation growth.

4. Ballast Maintenance

Repair and maintain track ballast, which provides support and drainage for the railway tracks.

• Clean and replace ballast as needed to ensure proper drainage and track stability.
• Inspect ballast for contamination and take corrective actions to prevent track damage.

To ace an interview for a Track Service Person position, consider the following tips:

1. Research the Company and the Role

Take the time to research the railway company and the specific job requirements. This will demonstrate your interest and knowledge of the industry.

• Visit the company website to learn about their history, services, and values.
• Review the job description carefully and identify the key skills and experiences required.

2. Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills

During the interview, emphasize your experience and skills that directly relate to the responsibilities of a Track Service Person.

• Provide specific examples of your involvement in track maintenance, rail grinding, or vegetation management.
• Quantify your accomplishments using metrics or data whenever possible, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Showcase Safety Awareness and Knowledge

Safety is of paramount importance in railway operations. Highlight your strong safety awareness and understanding of relevant regulations.

• Explain your knowledge of track inspection procedures and your adherence to safety protocols.
• Discuss any safety certifications or training programs you have completed.

4. Emphasize Physical Fitness and Stamina

The job of a Track Service Person requires good physical fitness and stamina. Emphasize your ability to work in physically demanding conditions.

• Describe your willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Mention any previous experience in physically demanding roles or activities.