Hansen's Releasing Company "HRC" is part of the Hansen's Group of Companies, proudly Canadian family company with over 45 years in the business of Automotive Transportation, Warehousing, and Facility Management. We are currently hiring fill four (4) open full-time positions as Professional Automotive Handlers for our Calgary, Alberta location. Candidate will be responsible for safely, efficiently, and professionally handling new and used automobiles.
The Hansen's Group of Companies is committed to creating and maitaining an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone. If you require accommodation (including, but not limited to an accessible interview site, ASL interpreter or Assistive Technology) during the recruitment process please let us know. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates including indigenous peoples, women, members of racialized groups, and persons with disabilities. We thank all applicants for their interest, however only candidates selected for an interview shall be contacted.
Excellent benefits package available to Full Time employee’s after completing probationary period and opportunity for advancement. Join us!
- Hourly Pay Rate: $19.50
- Benefits (Health, Dental, Vision)
- Group RRSP
- Wellness Program
- Profit Share Program
- Employee Quarterly 50/50 Charity & Bonus Draws
- 5 Paid Personal Days
Summary:
The Auto Handler position is responsible for performing all aspects of vehicle handling and railcar loading/unloading operations within an automotive shipping facility in a safe, efficient, and consistent manner. Work is performed in a team environment with variable daily volumes, which may include unloading approximately 20–50 railcars per shift.
This role involves the movement, securement, inspection, and documentation of new vehicles, as well as accessing multi-level railcars and working in accordance with established safety procedures and standard operating protocols.
Auto Handlers are required to operate within a dynamic outdoor work environment and perform physically demanding tasks including climbing, lifting, carrying, and working at heights. The position requires strict adherence to safety procedures related to railcar access, fall protection, and material handling.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Job tasks performed by an Auto Handler may include but are not limited to the following:
1. Railcar Access, Door Operation, and Bridge Plate Handling
- Perform “Bridge Plate Handling,” which involves transporting and installing bridge plates at each railcar junction in preparation for loading and unloading operations.
- Open, secure, and close railcar end doors to gain access to vehicle decks.
- Install, reposition, and remove bridge plates between railcars as required.
- If second deck bridge plates cannot be safely reached from the first deck level (e.g., overhead reach exceeds approximately 6 feet), the worker must access the second deck using fall protection rather than overreaching.
- Coordinate with team members when performing bridge plate handling (two-person lifts).
- Maintain proper footing, awareness of pinch points, and safe positioning when working at heights.
2. Vehicle Inspection
- Conduct visual inspections of vehicles following railcar access and prior to unloading or release.
- Identify and assess vehicle damage, defects, or discrepancies.
- Inspections are performed in confined spaces between the railcar wall and vehicle, with clearance as narrow as approximately 8 inches.
- Document findings accurately using handheld scanning or recording devices.
- Maintain attention to detail while working within confined railcar environments.
3. Vehicle Loading and Unloading
- Load and unload vehicles from multi-level railcars using designated ramps and access points.
- Safely drive vehicles on and off railcars while maintaining control and spatial awareness.
- Ensure proper vehicle positioning within railcars to prevent damage and optimize space.
- Follow established procedures for safe entry and exit of railcars.
- Operate mobile loading ramp equipment to facilitate vehicle loading and unloading, where trained and authorized to do so.
- Conduct visual checks of ramp positioning and ensure safe access prior to use.
- Maintain awareness of pedestrian and vehicle traffic during ramp operation.
4. Vehicle Securement and Release
- Install and remove wheel chocks, locks, and restraints on vehicles.
- Perform tasks on multiple railcar levels, including upper (“B”) deck and (“C’) deck if applicable.
- Maintain safe positioning when working near open railcar doors and edges.
- Follow controlled door procedures to reduce fall risk while working at heights confirming end doors are fully opened with door pins locked into position.
5. Railcar Movement and Navigation
- Access and exit railcars using ladders or approved access methods where applicable.
- Maintain three points of contact when climbing or transitioning between levels.
- Navigate between coupled railcars using installed bridge plates.
- Identify appropriate handholds and ensure safe footing prior to movement.
6. Vehicle Movement Within Facility
- Shuttle vehicles within the yard or facility as required.
- Operate vehicles in tight spaces and around other equipment or personnel.
- Maintain awareness of surroundings, including pedestrians and moving equipment.
7. General Yard and Operational Support
- Assist with general yard operations and workflow as required.
- Work collaboratively with team members, including spotters, when required for safety.
- Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
- Perform tasks in varying environmental conditions.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
- High school education
- Minimum of 2 years driving experience
- Required to Read, Write and Speak English
- Required to hold a full valid Driver’s License in the province of employment working
- Required to provide a reasonably clean Driver’s Record (Abstract) free of suspensions
- Required to provide a clear criminal record check
Physical Requirements:
- Able to climb ladders and work at heights of up to approx. 14 feet.
- Able to work within confined spaces as small as 5 feet high.
- Able to work outside daily in all types of weather conditions.
- During winter months (temperatures below 0°C): wear ice cleats for traction.
- Able to stand and walk for long periods of time.
- Able to work extended shifts (overtime) and weekends.
- Able to operate a handheld computing device.
- Able to lift up to 45 lbs.
- Able to wear PPE (Safety Boots, Safety Vest, Glasses, Fall Protection, Gloves.
Work Environment:
- Work Hours: 8 hours per day.
- Shift Rotation: 6 days per week up to 7 Days per week (volume dependent).
- Break Schedule: 2 x 15 minute and 1 x 30 minute per shift.
- Occasional Overtime as required.
- Indoors Office.
- Outdoor Compound with vehicles.
- Exposure to extreme temperatures.
- Proximity to equipment.
- Exposure to vibration and sound (< 80 decibels).
- Exposure to chemicals.
- Working at heights.
Work Environment:
- Able to work outside in all types of weather including cold, heat, rain and snow.
- Able to function in different environmental or seasonal conditions such as working around dust, pollen, etc.
- Safety Equipment and Clothing.
- Employees are required to provide their own certified safety boots and wear at all times while working (Boot allowance provided after probationary periods).
- Company will provide other PPE including safety vests, coveralls, work gloves, safety glasses, hard hats, and hearing protections as required.
Artificial intelligence (AI) or automated decision-making tools are not used in the screening or selection process for this position. All applications are reviewed by qualified hiring personnel.
