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Ballast Regulator Operator Jobs in Spring, TX (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

American Track

Backhoe Operator

Houston, TX

$40K - $53K/yr

Backhoe Operator Build your career with an innovative and sustainable railroad maintenance and ... and Ballast Regulator. The applicant is being hired with the intent of working as a Backhoe ...

Valaris

Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO)

Houston, TX · On-site

Operates and understands the Ballast Control System, Power Management System and Fire and Gas ... Maintains nautical publications and charts as per regulatory standards. * Assists in maintaining ...

Cranemasters

Driver/Laborer - CDL B

Houston, TX

$20 - $25.25/hr

T. regulations. * Drives tractor-trailer to/from job sites, inspects loads, and machinery being ... Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe ...

Cranemasters

Driver/Laborer - CDL B

Houston, TX · On-site

$20 - $25.25/hr

T. regulations. * Drives tractor-trailer to/from job sites, inspects loads, and machinery being ... Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A

Houston, TX

T. regulations. * Drives tractor-trailer to/from job sites, inspects loads, and machinery being ... Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A

Houston, TX · On-site

T. regulations. * Drives tractor-trailer to/from job sites, inspects loads, and machinery being ... Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe ...

All JobsBallast Regulator Operator JobsBallast Regulator Operator Jobs in Spring, TX

Ballast Regulator Operator information

See Spring, TX salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do ballast regulator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for ballast regulator operator in Spring, TX is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ballast Regulator Operator, and why are they important?

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 Ballast Regulator Operators and what do they do?

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 job categories do people searching Ballast Regulator Operator jobs in Spring, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Ballast Regulator Operator jobs in Spring, TX are:
What cities near Spring, TX are hiring for Ballast Regulator Operator jobs? Cities near Spring, TX with the most Ballast Regulator Operator job openings:
Ballast Regulator Operator jobs near you

Backhoe Operator I

OWS Construction and Railroad Maintenance Ltd

Houston, TX • On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

American Track recognizes that earthwork is a vital part of almost all railroad construction projects. With our equipment and expertise, we offer a broad range of earthwork services and our backhoe operators are at the heart of our operations. The backhoe operator is an hourly-rated skilled craft position that works on construction and maintenance projects and performs any combination of the duties described below. A backhoe operator typically performs a wide variety of tasks, transferring from one task to another as the workflow dictates. The applicant who fills this position will also be trained on and operate specialty railroad machinery that include a Tamper machine and Ballast Regulator. The applicant is being hired with the intent of working as a backhoe operator as well as an operator of our on-track machines. Some travel/ weekend work should be expected. We offer competitive pay, paid time off, holiday pay, 401k and a robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
Job Responsibilities:

  • Operate all machinery in a safe manner
  • Sets up heavy construction equipment
  • 1+ years of experience operating a backhoe with experience in a railroad construction environment preferred.
  • Proper pre-start and daily Maintenance- Including lubrication and required documentation
  • Keep equipment clean and well-maintained (perform required maintenance)
  • Operates equipment to grade or redistribute earth
  • Operates equipment to move, load or unload material
  • Installs equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
  • Signals directions or warnings to coworkers
  • Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members
  • Locates underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work
  • Studies instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements
  • Grade plan requirements and set grade standards
  • Demonstrate the ability to lead a crew and delegate work within work scope
  • Understand production and quantity requirements
  • Make decisions based on verifiable standards
  • Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts including operating on-track machinery
  • Assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed basis
  • Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine

This is an evergreen posting that supports our ongoing talent pipeline and is used to collect applications for future openings. We review all submissions, and candidates whose qualifications best align with our needs will be contacted as opportunities become available
Thank you for your interest in this position and for taking the time to apply. We appreciate your patience as we review all applications. While we will provide updates as soon as they are available, please note that we may not be able to respond to all applicants individually.

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