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Ballast Regulator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Track

Backhoe Operator

Mulberry, FL

$20/hr

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 ...

Universal Rail Systems

Backhoe Operator

Dillsburg, PA · On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Backhoe Operator North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to ... as Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. The role involves both general construction and ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ

$24 - $32/hr

You may load, unload, and transport materials and perform duties that include building track panels, handling and laying track sections, operating ballast regulators, performing ballast train dumping ...

Universal Rail Systems

Backhoe Operator I

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$40K - $53K/yr

Backhoe Operator North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to ... as Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. The role involves both general construction and ...

Danos, LLC

Deepwater Operator A - New Platform

Houma, LA

$17 - $22.25/hr

... regulatory requirements. Candidates should be open to international rotational assignments on a ... Ballast and fluid transfer operations * Vessel stability and facility integrity * Hull, deck, and ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

You may load, unload, and transport materials and perform duties that include building track panels, handling and laying track sections, operating ballast regulators, performing ballast train dumping ...

Universal Rail Systems

Backhoe Operator I

Henderson, NV · On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

Backhoe Operator North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to ... as Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. The role involves both general construction and ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ

$27 - $36/hr

Duties also include building track panels, handling and laying track sections, operating ballast regulators, performing ballast train dumping operations, operating spot tampers, track maintainers ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ

$27 - $36/hr

Duties also include building track panels, handling and laying track sections, operating ballast regulators, performing ballast train dumping operations, operating spot tampers, track maintainers ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ

$24 - $32/hr

You may load, unload, and transport materials and perform duties that include building track panels, handling and laying track sections, operating ballast regulators, performing ballast train dumping ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ

$27 - $36/hr

Duties also include building track panels, handling and laying track sections, operating ballast regulators, performing ballast train dumping operations, operating spot tampers, track maintainers ...

Universal Rail Systems

Backhoe Operator I

Mulberry, FL · On-site

$40K - $53K/yr

Backhoe Operator American Track, a North American Rail Solutions company, is seeking a skilled ... as Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. The role involves both general construction and ...

Danos, LLC

Deepwater Operator A - New Platform

Houma, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

... regulatory requirements. Candidates should be open to international rotational assignments on a 28 ... Ballast and fluid transfer operations * Vessel stability and facility integrity * Hull, deck, and ...

Danos, LLC

Deepwater Operator A - New Platform

Houma, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

... regulatory requirements. Candidates should be open to international rotational assignments on a ... Ballast and fluid transfer operations * Vessel stability and facility integrity * Hull, deck, and ...

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All 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 Jul 24, 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 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.
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Ballast Regulator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ballast Regulator Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 29% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 62% Physical, 37% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,316 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

GSMR Equipment Operator

SCENIC RAILROADS ACQUISITION CORP

Bryson City, NC

$20 - $26/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Equipment Operator

Location: Bryson City, NC

Department: Maintenance of Way

Reports To: Gang Foreman, Roadmaster and/or Asst. Roadmaster

Compensation: $20-26 depending on experience and certifications

Summary: The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining various types of railroad maintenance equipment to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the scenic railroad tracks. This role involves working alongside track maintenance crews, performing tasks related to track construction, maintenance, and repair.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Equipment Operation: Operate and maintain track maintenance equipment such as tampers, ballast regulators, rail saws, spike pullers, and other specialized machinery.
  • Track Maintenance: Assist in the construction, maintenance, and repair of railroad tracks, including tasks such as tamping ballast, aligning and surfacing track, and replacing ties and rails.
  • Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety regulations and procedures, ensuring the safe operation of equipment and the safety of crew members.
  • Inspection: Conduct routine inspections of equipment to ensure proper functioning and perform necessary maintenance and repairs.
  • Support Crew: Work collaboratively with track maintenance crews to complete projects efficiently and effectively.
  • Emergency Response: Respond to emergency situations promptly, operating equipment to perform necessary repairs and ensure the safety of the railroad.
  • Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of equipment usage, maintenance, and repairs.
  • Environmental Maintenance: Assist in maintaining the scenic beauty of the railroad by removing brush, snow, vegetation, and other obstructions from the right-of-way.

Work Environment:

  • Work on and off the train in varied terrain in all weather during daylight and dark hours. 
  • Must be available for duty: weekends, nights, and off hours in the event of track emergencies and/or special or emergency inspections.
  • Ability to perform continuous heavy labor in all weather conditions.
  • Varied schedule throughout the year dictated by train schedule and maintenance operations. 
  • Schedule is typically Monday through Thursday, 10-hour days with rotating on-call weekends. 

Education, Skill and Work Experience Requirements:

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment
  •  High school diploma or GED required; additional technical training or certifications in equipment operation preferred.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude; ability to interpret and understand FRA regulations and safety standards.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, work in all weather conditions, and perform physically demanding tasks. Must pass pre-employment physical evaluation and ongoing physical evaluations. 
  • Licenses: Valid driver's license required; CDL a plus.
  • Schedule: This position requires work on days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Overtime hours may be required.
  • Environment: Work outdoors in varying weather conditions; exposure to loud noise and heavy machinery.
  • Safety Awareness: Observes all safety and security procedures; determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; reports potentially unsafe conditions; uses equipment and materials properly.
  • Dependability: Follows through on commitments; consistently at work on time.
  • Professionalism: Approaches others in a tactful manner; reacts well under pressure; displays integrity by holding oneself personally accountable.

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