Baggage Handler (Alaska Railroad)

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

Incumbent performs duties at the Passenger Depot related to serving the public with baggage related issues including customer service, loading baggage and performing maintenance, janitorial and landscaping duties.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Performs baggage handling duties of loading/unloading, stowing, and delivering baggage to and from trains using a fork lift.  Operates government vehicles (sedans, pickup trucks) requiring a valid driver’s license.

Provides service to the public by answering inquiries regarding the Railroad’s passenger, baggage, and related information, i.e. excessive baggage rates, events, activities, and other information of local interest. Acts as source of information on other modes of transportation such as cabs, buses, etc.

Responsible for all general housekeeping and maintenance of building and grounds.     Ensures property is clean and in orderly condition.

Conducts problem resolution regarding lost or damaged bags.  Document problems that are not able to be resolved.  Also, work with security on personal lost and found items onboard trains and stations.

Document train departure and arrival times in computer data base.  Communicate through email and/or phone to other depots regarding depot/baggage/train information.

Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related duties as needed.

Factor 1 – Skill and Knowledge

High school diploma or GED required.  Knowledge of safe work practices and methods and maintenance of equipment and work areas in accordance with practices and procedures prescribed in ARRC Manual of Safety Rules and Regulations for general guidance and Protection of Railroad Personnel.  Must possess excellent customer service skills to handle customers in a professional, tactful, and courteous manner. Ability to use/operate tools such as hammer and other small hand tools, shovel, broom, and power vacuum cleaner.  Ability to deal tactfully with passengers and provide service in resolving baggage related issues such as the check in/out process, lost/damaged bags, etc.  Ability to read and write to interpret general instructions and work instructions.   Mental application required in maintaining alertness and concentrated attention when working in and around work areas/equipment.  Ability to drive/be qualified in the operation of vehicles, i.e., sedans, pickups.   Ability to use/operate forklifts having a load capacity of up to 10,000 pounds on a generally level and unobstructed loading platform.  Loads are usually less than 1,500 pounds.

Factor 2 - Responsibilities

Incumbent works under the general supervision of the Manager, Guest Services, Manager, Fairbanks Depot Operations, Passenger Operations Supervisor, Seward or Lead Baggage Handler who provides day-to-day instructions.

Factor 3 - Physical Effort

Incumbent performs work on hard surfaces (concrete, rocky ground, etc.) and in work areas that require considerable physical exertion requiring incumbent to stand for extended periods of time, crouch, stoop, bend, and work in tiring and uncomfortable positions.  May be required to work at a rapid pace for long periods of time.  Incumbent frequently lifts, pushes, pulls, or carries baggage varying from 40-100 pounds.  Incumbent must be physically capable of walking and climbing.

Factor 4 - Work Conditions

Incumbent is required to work inside and outside of building, railroad cars, and vehicles as well as open areas.  Such areas may be cold, damp, drafty or poorly lighted and in all types of inclement weather such as rain, wind, snow, etc.