Descanso Railroad Technician
Job Description
Job Description
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Descanso Railroad Technician is responsible for the care, maintenance and interpretation of the
mechanical aspects of Descanso Gardens model train garden. The position requires significant
interaction with the public, mechanical aptitude and attention to detail. This position requires
maintaining a rigorous schedule of setup, maintenance and preparation to assure smooth start up and
operation throughout the day. Dexterity, balance and the ability to operate from ladders is required as is
a deft touch in handling the delicate mechanics of model trains. As a full time, on site operator the
Descanso Railroad Technician is also responsible for interpreting the train garden to the public and
serves as an ambassador to the Gardens as a whole. This position requires a candidate who works well
with adults and children under high visitation circumstances. This position works weekends and
holidays. A member of the maintenance team, the Descanso Railroad Technician assists with regular
maintenance duties as appropriate.
JOB CLASSIFICATION:
This is a full‐time non‐exempt position. The candidate will be required to work weekends, holidays and
some evenings, as fits the needs of the organization.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Responsible for the daily cleaning and maintenance of model train tracks including blowing,
removing obstacles and keeping tracks clean. Tracks occasionally require light sanding and or
cleaning with alcohol. Requires working from ladders and balancing in complicated garden
areas
• Responsible for maintenance, cleaning and small repairs to model trains, including regular
lubrication, wheel cleaning and inspection for wear and alignment.
• Responsible for rerailing derailed trains and determining and correcting cause
• Responsible for regular inspection of wheels, contact feet, axles, and couplers
• Responsible for daily switching of engines to avoid overheating
• Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of the hardscape in the Descanso Railroad garden,
including removal of spider webs and debris from posts and trestles, maintaining paving and
cleaning the load on platform for the ride on train.
• Answers questions and is well informed on the installation, function and maintenance process of
the display area, ticket sales, hours of operation, events and narrative associated with the
exhibit
• Leads staff and volunteer training on matters pertaining to the Descanso Railroad
• Monitors model trains and proactively works to identify and implement improvements to
regular operations.
• Assists with installation of seasonal additions and new elements to the model train garden as
appropriate.
• Regularly monitors for wildlife issues
• Appropriately responds to inclement weather issues, including rain, heat and wind that may
compromise the train collection and garden infrastructure
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Works in a safe manner, using personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with OSHA and
Descanso's IIPP.
• Keeps work areas, tools and equipment in good/clean working condition for optimum performance
and to prevent injury.
• Adheres to the Code of Safe Practices when performing various jobs duties which also includes the
safety of staff, visitors, volunteers, and communicates any hazard concerns as needed
• Assists with regular maintenance duties as appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned.
EQUIPMENT USED:
Ladders, dremel tool, blowers, hand tools, pressure washer, water hoses
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:
• Strong knowledge and experience operating model trains preferred
• Must be physically able to perform multiple tasks requiring physical dexterity
• Excellent personal skills and ability to interact with the public
• Experience and some knowledge in either general building maintenance or in one or more of the
standard building trades such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical, welcoming, vehicle repair, or
painting a plus.
• Ability to assess situations quickly, make decisions and exercise good judgment in routine or
emergency situations.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and also as a member of a team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills required including speaking clearly to diverse
audiences; reading and writing standard and technical communications, documents and manuals.
• Valid Class C California Driver's License.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to
successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to
enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• The ability to walk, kneel, bend, stoop, sit, crouch, drive vehicles, and climb ladders.
• The ability to lift and carry 20 lbs., occasionally, but not routinely.
• Exposure to various noise levels on a daily basis.
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors as required
• Ability to work at heights
• Ability to work extended periods of time both walking and/or standing
RATE
$19.50-$22.00 per hour depending on experience