ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ballast Regulator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wood

Ballast Control Operator-Offshore

Lafayette, LA

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is searching for a Ballast Control Operator with experience on an ... Regulatory Audits /Inspections. * Load Management. * Watch Keeping - Monitor Collision Avoidance ...

Universal Rail Systems

Backhoe Operator I

Houston, TX · On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

Backhoe Operator American Track recognizes that earthwork is a vital part of almost all railroad ... and Ballast Regulator. The applicant is being hired with the intent of working as a backhoe ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTravel JobsRailroad JobsLocomotive Engineer JobsBallast Regulator Operator Jobs

Ballast Regulator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$20

$29

How much do ballast regulator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for ballast regulator operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ballast regulator operator?

Ballast Regulator Operators are skilled workers who operate specialized railroad maintenance equipment called ballast regulators. Their main responsibility is to shape, distribute, and maintain the layer of crushed stone (ballast) that supports railroad tracks. This work ensures the tracks remain stable, properly aligned, and well-drained, which is essential for safe train operations. Ballast Regulator Operators use controls to adjust plows, brushes, and other attachments on their machines, often working as part of a larger track maintenance crew. They must be attentive to safety protocols and able to perform minor repairs and routine maintenance on their equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ballast regulator operator?

To thrive as a Ballast Regulator Operator, you need a good understanding of railroad maintenance procedures, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with operating heavy rail equipment, such as ballast regulators and tampers, and knowledge of safety protocols are essential, with some employers requiring certification in track safety standards. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient operations. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining track integrity, preventing accidents, and supporting smooth railroad operations.

What are the typical challenges faced by a ballast regulator operator and how can they be addressed?

Ballast Regulator Operators often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining safety around active rail lines, and ensuring precise ballast distribution for track stability. To address these challenges, operators must stay vigilant about safety protocols, regularly inspect equipment for maintenance issues, and communicate effectively with other rail crew members. Continuous on-the-job training and adherence to operational guidelines also help in minimizing errors and ensuring efficient workflow.

What is the difference between Ballast Regulator Operator vs Track Inspector?

AspectBallast Regulator OperatorTrack Inspector
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in ballast and track maintenanceHigh school diploma, certification in track safety and inspection
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on railway tracks, operating machineryOutdoor, inspecting tracks and infrastructure
Industry UsageRailroad maintenance crews, track upkeepSafety inspections, track condition assessments

The main difference is that a Ballast Regulator Operator focuses on maintaining and shaping ballast using specialized machinery, while a Track Inspector assesses track conditions for safety and compliance. Both roles require knowledge of railway standards but serve different functions in railway maintenance and safety.

More about Ballast Regulator Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Ballast Regulator Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Ballast Regulator Operator job openings:

What states have the most Ballast Regulator Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ballast Regulator Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Ballast Regulator Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Ballast Regulator Operator jobs are:

Ballast Regulator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ballast Regulator Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,316 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Industrial Railroad Tamper & KBR 925 Regulator Operator

Greenwood Village, CO • On-site

360 Rail Services
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about 360 Rail Servicesexternal

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Industrial Railroad 6700 Tamper & KBR 925 Regulator Operator
360 Rail Services is seeking an experienced and safety-focused Railroad Tamper & Regulator Operator with experience operating a 6700 Tamper and KBR 925 Ballast Regulator. This position will support industrial railroad construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance projects throughout the United States.
Location
This position can be based anywhere in the United States. 360 Rail Services' primary offices are located in La Porte, Texas and Englewood, Colorado.
This is a traveling field position, and candidates should be prepared to travel to project locations throughout the country based on operational needs.
Position Summary
The Tamper & Regulator Operator will be responsible for safely operating, inspecting, and maintaining track maintenance equipment used to surface, align, and dress railroad track. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience operating a 6700 Tamper and KBR 925 Regulator in industrial railroad environments.
This position may require extended workdays, weekends, and work in active industrial facilities depending on project requirements.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Safely operate a 6700 Tamper to surface, line, level, and correct railroad track.
  • Safely operate a KBR 925 Ballast Regulator to properly distribute, shape, and dress ballast.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and pre-operation checks.
  • Identify equipment issues and perform routine maintenance and minor repairs when qualified.
  • Recognize mechanical problems as they arise and communicate equipment issues promptly to minimize downtime.
  • Work closely with foremen, track crews, and other equipment operators to complete projects safely and efficiently.
  • Understand track geometry, proper ballast profiles, track elevation, alignment, and basic railroad construction practices.
  • Follow all company, customer, FRA, and applicable railroad safety requirements.
  • Participate in job briefings and follow established work plans.
  • Maintain equipment cleanliness and report mechanical problems promptly.
  • Assist with other railroad construction and maintenance duties when equipment operation is not required.
  • Maintain a professional attitude while working at customer facilities and project sites.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Previous experience operating railroad track maintenance equipment.
  • Demonstrated experience operating a 6700 Tamper and/or KBR 925 Ballast Regulator.
  • Strong understanding of railroad track construction and maintenance.
  • Ability to safely work around moving equipment and active railroad operations.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
  • Willingness and ability to travel extensively throughout the United States.
  • Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and changing schedules when required.
  • Ability to pass applicable pre-employment and customer-required screening.
Preferred:
  • Experience operating both the 6700 Tamper and KBR 925 Regulator.
  • Industrial railroad construction and maintenance experience.
  • Experience with track surfacing, lining, leveling, ballast distribution, and final track dressing.
  • Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot mechanical or equipment issues as they arise is a plus.
  • Experience performing routine preventive maintenance and minor equipment repairs.
What We're Looking For
We are looking for an operator who knows the equipment, understands track, and takes pride in producing quality work. The right candidate will be dependable, safety-minded, mechanically capable, and willing to work as part of a team.
Because our projects are located throughout the country, where you live is less important than your experience, dependability, and willingness to travel.
Pay & Benefits
  • Top-of-industry pay for this role, based on experience and demonstrated ability operating the 6700 Tamper and KBR 925 Regulator
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Travel/per diem opportunities as applicable
  • Company benefits based on eligibility
  • Opportunities for advancement within railroad construction and maintenance operations
Apply
Qualified candidates should submit a resume or work history detailing their railroad experience and specific experience operating the 6700 Tamper and KBR 925 Regulator.
360 Rail Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply