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Ballast Regulator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

$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 ...

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Be Seen First

Laborer CDL (A or B)

Dillsboro, NC · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... Ballast Regulator, Back Hoe/Track Hoe, Air Compressor with Air Tools. * Ability to operate and use ... Strict compliance to GSMR procedures/rules, roadway worker safety program and operating rules.

New

Metro Transit

Track Maintainer I

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Successfully pass the Metro Link Operating Rules Examination for Maintenance of Way (MOW) employees ... ballast regulator, cranes, backhoe, and other equipment required for MOW work. * Assists other ...

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Ballast Regulator Operator information

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How much do ballast regulator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 25% Temporary, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 68% Physical, and 32% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $42,316 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Backhoe Operator I

OWS Construction and Railroad Maintenance Ltd

Mulberry, FL • On-site

$40K - $53K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

American Track, a North American Rail Solutions company, is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to perform essential earthwork for railroad construction and maintenance projects. This hourly craft position also includes training to operate specialized on-track equipment such as Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. The role involves both general construction and precision rail operations, with travel and occasional weekend work expected.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
• Set up and operate heavy construction equipment in a safe manner
• Keep equipment clean and perform required maintenance
• Proper pre-start and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation
• Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth and move, load or unload material
• Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
• Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand/audio signals from crew members
• Signal directions to coworkers
• Study instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements
• Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work
• Grade plan requirements and set grade standards
• Lead a crew, delegate work within work scope, and assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed basis
• Understand production and quantity requirements and make decisions based on verifiable standards
• Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts including operating on-track machinery
• Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine
• Performs all other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
Education Required:
• High School Diploma or GED preferred
Work Experience Required:
• Minimum of one year operating a backhoe; experience in railroad construction strongly preferred
• Valid driver's license required
• Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening
Skills & Knowledge Required:
• Ability to understand work instructions and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members
• Physical capability to perform demanding tasks, including lifting up to 100 lbs and working at heights
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and around heavy equipment, moving machinery, noise, dust, and grease
• Strong situational awareness and attention to safety in active construction environments
• Comfortable navigating uneven terrain and climbing on/off heavy equipment safely

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