Section Manager Railroad Operations

Location: Negaunee, MI

Cleveland-Cliffs, Lake Superior & Ishpeming Railroad (LS&I) has an immediate opportunity for an experienced Section Manager Operations in Negaunee, MI.  The Section Manager Operations is a key leadership position responsible for directing safe, efficient, and compliant rail operations while developing a high performing team that supports one of the region's most important transportation networks. We are looking for a strong and collaborative team member who leads by example, is self-motivated, organized, results-oriented, and demonstrates strong follow-through.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Directly responsible for cost effective and efficient rail operations while ensuring compliance with all company policies, railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations and the Federal Railroad Administration.
• Sets expectations, provides coaching, leadership, direction and accountability for the LS&I Railroad operations team and manages performance and talent development.
• Oversees effective safety and accident prevention programs for the department as well as procedures to ensure that all reasonable actions are taken to prevent accidents and injuries; ensures a safe and productive work environment for all employees. 
• Investigates violations of rules, regulations and operating procedures to determine appropriate corrective action.
• Develops, forecasts, and achieves production targets that support business objectives and long-term operating strategies while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Collaborates with maintenance personnel to ensure safe, reliable and efficient railroad operations.
• Responds to emergency situations and provides leadership during critical operational events as business needs require.
• Demonstrates leadership through a consistent and visible field presence by actively engaging with employees, fostering communication, and promoting accountability and support across all shifts.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• H.S. Diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years of railroad experience.
• Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills:  Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint.
• Ability to build strong teams; select best candidates, coach and develop best talent.
• Proven ability to lead by example through influence and accountability.
• Proven ability to prioritize workload, manage competing operational demands, and consistently follow through to ensure timely completion of assignments and business objectives.
• Process and results-oriented in setting and pursuing aggressive goals, demonstrating a strong commitment to organizational success.
• Problem-solving, analytical, critical-thinking and decision-making skills.
• Collaborative; builds and works with teams.
• Experience in a union environment.
• Ability to become and remain GCOR (General Code of Operating Rules) qualified.
• Current valid driver’s license.
• Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Preferred Qualifications:

• B.S. Degree: Technical or business administration or a combination of education and experience relating to position.
• 7+ years of progressive railroad operations/yardmaster experience.
• In depth knowledge of GCOR.
• Working knowledge of safety and railroad operating rules and procedures, train operations, FRA regulations, OSHA, labor agreements and company policies.
• Experience in interviewing employees regarding accidents, complaints, grievances and disciplinary actions.

Relocation assistance may be considered for highly qualified candidates from outside the local area.

Cleveland-Cliffs is a leading North America-based steel producer with focus on value-added sheet products, particularly for the automotive industry. The Company is vertically integrated from the mining of iron ore, production of pellets and direct reduced iron, and processing of ferrous scrap through primary steelmaking and downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. We offer an excellent total compensation package, including competitive pay with variable compensation opportunity, health insurance, retirement plan, education assistance, paid time off, and more.

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to [email protected] or call 1-(312) 899-3097 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Do not email your application materials to this email address. Application materials sent to this email address will not be considered.

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is an equal opportunity employer – M/F/Veteran/Disability. We are a drug-free workplace and conduct pre-employment screening as a condition of employment.