Job Descriptions

A requirement now exists for the position of General Operative at the Portlaoise Rail and Sleeper
Depot. Currently day hours of Monday to Thursday 07:00 – 17:00 and Friday 07:00 – 16:00. Reporting
to the GPX Rail Ltd Chargehand, the successful applicant will be responsible for the safe and efficient
manufacturing of concrete sleepers within the factory area. In addition, the applicant may be required
to assemble and dismantle track panels in the yard area of the depot. The role requires physical
strength, flexibility and the safe operation of small plant equipment, while following clear instruction
in a safety-critical environment.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

Production Duties (Factory-Based)

• Operate and support the concrete sleeper production line within the factory
• Work as part of a team to manufacture sleepers to the required quality standards
• Ensure all production activities meet defined output targets
• Participate in site briefings, toolbox talks and safety inductions
• Maintain PPE that does not compromise safety and ensure all PPE is worn at all times
• Play a lead role in relation to attendance and performance
• Participate in set-ups and clean-ups of production lines and work areas
• Notify the Chargehand or Line Supervisor of any production line issues as they arise
• Ad hoc duties as required

Yard Duties:

• Perform work in the depot yard, including assembly and dismantling of track panels and
sleeper-related components
• Aim to achieve and surpass output targets for production
• Safely operate small plant tools and equipment, including:
o Rail Saw
o Rail Drill
o Impact Wrench
o Power Spanner
• Participate in site briefings, toolbox talks and safety inductions
• Maintain PPE that does not compromise safety and ensure all PPE is worn at all times
• Play a lead role in relation to attendance and performance, 
• Ad hoc duties as required

Requirements:

• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Valid Safe Pass
• Manual Handling Certificate
• Team player with a positive, can-do attitude
Desirable:
• PTS (Personal Track Safety)
• Abrasive Wheels certification
• Small Plant certification
• Certified in GAS cutting and burning (S.I No. 273 of 1956) or equivalent
• Hoist / Gantry certification
• Forklift certification
• Experience in rail or construction environments

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay
• Annual Leave: 20 days paid holiday + 9 public holidays (statutory)
• Pension Scheme: Company pension contribution from start date

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Free, confidential support for mental health, financial advice and wellbeing

At any time, you can discuss this role further with Sean Lawlor. Interested applicants
should apply in writing to sean.lawlor@gpxrail.com The closing date for all applications is
the Close of Business, Monday 13th October 2025. Please note, we will only communicate
with the applicant on their application. We will not speak to a nominated person on behalf
of the applicant.

Skills

Experience

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