Earth and Space Science - Geology Track | Columbus State University

Skills & Competencies

Skills developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET via SOC 47-4061.00

Skills

Operations MonitoringOperation and ControlEquipment MaintenanceTroubleshootingMonitoringCoordinationRepairingQuality Control Analysis

Knowledge

TransportationMechanicalBuilding and ConstructionPublic Safety and SecurityAdministration and Management

Abilities

Control PrecisionManual DexterityMultilimb CoordinationProblem SensitivityArm-Hand SteadinessReaction TimeFar VisionFlexibility of ClosureVisualizationNear Vision

Tasks

Patrol assigned track sections so that damaged or broken track can be located and reported.
Repair or adjust track switches, using wrenches and replacement parts.
Weld sections of track together, such as switch points and frogs.

Technology

Enterprise resource planning ERP softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareTime accounting software

Tools

Adjustable hand wrenchesAir drillsAir purifying respiratorsAir-powered wrenchesBackhoesClaw barsCrowbarsDolliesDump trucksFall protection harnessesForkliftsGas-powered wrenchesGlobal positioning system GPS receiversGrading equipmentGrease guns

Work Values

SupportRelationshipsWorking ConditionsIndependenceAchievementRecognition

Career Pathways

Occupations this program prepares you for

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET + BLS

Occupations matched to this program, with median wage, top wage, growth, and openings
SOC	Occupation	Method	Wage	Growth	Openings
Match confidence: medium47-4061.00	Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators	title_inference	—	—	—

Program Pathways

Credentials this program stacks toward

No program pathways.

What You'll Learn

Key competencies developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom NSX Competency Framework

Mastery: proficient (Level 3)(based on Bachelor's Degree)

Track defect assessments across extended patrol zones — conduct autonomously, applying critical judgment to prioritize urgent repairs versus scheduled maintenance based on defect severity.
Welding equipment and techniques — weld switch points, frogs, and rail sections together in varied weather and track conditions to meet Federal Railroad Administration standards.
Complex track switch repairs — diagnose, adjust, and restore full switch function independently, using wrenches, replacement components, and precision measurement tools.
Track geometry alignment data — analyze leveling indicator outputs across multiple passes to identify systematic misalignment and direct corrective tamping or surfacing operations.
Full spike driving operations — oversee and execute both single- and multiple-head driving sequences on curved and tangent track, ensuring consistent spike seating and rail anchorage.
Rail cutting operations — select cutting sequences, manage thermal expansion considerations, and verify finished rail lengths meet joint gap specifications in live track environments.
Preventive maintenance programs — plan and execute scheduled equipment servicing across multiple machines, reducing unplanned downtime and extending service life.
Non-routine mechanical failures — troubleshoot and repair infrequent or ambiguous equipment faults on track laying and maintenance machinery with minimal technical reference.
Quality control inspections — apply quality control analysis to completed track segments, verifying spike pattern, bolt torque, weld integrity, and surface profile before returning track to service.
ERP and office suite software — generate maintenance work orders, track material consumption, and produce compliance documentation for regulatory and internal reporting purposes.

Program Details

Detailed information about this program

No detailed information available.

Requirements

What you need to earn this credential

No requirements listed.

Financial Aid

Eligible funding programs

No funding information available.

Scholarships

No scholarships listed.