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Brake Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Roanoke County, VA

Motor Equipment Operator I

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$38K - $46K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Class A commercial driver's license with an air brake certification and have a good driving record. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities * Good knowledge of the principles and practices of operating and ...

RMA Worldwide

Motor Coach Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Valid CDL Class A or B with Passenger and Air Brake endorsements. * Clean driving record and ... Operators, and Shuttle Ambassadors. * Full-time: $1,200 * Part-time: $600 Eligibility begins after ...

RMA Worldwide

Motor Coach Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Valid CDL Class A or B with Passenger and Air Brake endorsements. * Clean driving record and ... Operators, and Shuttle Ambassadors. * Full-time: $1,200 * Part-time: $600 Eligibility begins after ...

Stella Environmental Services

Owner Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$200K/yr

  • PTO

Owner Operators (Independent Contractors) Location: Norfolk, VA Earn Up to $200,000 Annually ... Valid Class A CDL with air-brake endorsement. Trucks with a power take-off (PTO) At least 21 years ...

Stella Environmental Services

Owner Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$200K/yr

  • PTO

Owner Operators (Independent Contractors) Location: Norfolk, VA Earn Up to $200,000 Annually ... air-brake endorsement. • Trucks with a power take-off (PTO) • At least 21 years old with 2+ ...

Hampton Roads Transit

Bus Operator (FT) Trainee

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Hourly Wage: $23.00 Responsible for operating Agency revenue service vehicles safely to include 29 ... air brake and passenger endorsements. Special Requirements: This position is classified as ...

RMA Worldwide

VCU Shuttle Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Operators must conduct pre-check and post-check inspections of vehicles to ensure cleanliness and ... Richmond, VA 23224 Requirements * CDL Drivers License with Passenger and Air brake Endorsement

Roanoke County, VA

Motor Equipment Operator II

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Class A Commercial Driver's license with air brake certification and good driving record. Must ... Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of safety operating and servicing heavy ...

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All JobsBrake Operator JobsBrake Operator Jobs in Virginia

Brake Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$17

$23

How much do brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for brake operator in Virginia is $17.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a brake operator?

Brake Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating machines called press brakes, which are used to bend, shape, and form sheet metal and other materials. They read blueprints or production drawings to determine the appropriate machine settings, adjust the equipment, and ensure that finished products meet precise specifications. Brake Operators play a key role in manufacturing industries, particularly in metal fabrication and automotive sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a brake operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Brake Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with press brake machines, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel in fast-paced manufacturing environments. These skills ensure precise fabrication, maintain workplace safety, and contribute to efficient production processes.

What are some typical challenges a brake operator faces during daily operations?

Brake Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision while forming metal parts, ensuring safety around heavy machinery, and meeting tight production deadlines. Accuracy and attention to detail are critical, as mistakes can lead to material waste or equipment damage. Staying updated with machine maintenance procedures and effectively communicating with team members helps address these challenges and ensures smooth workflow in a manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Brake Operator vs Press Brake Operator?

AspectBrake OperatorPress Brake Operator
CertificationsOften requires OSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsSimilar certifications, including safety and machine operation
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, metal fabrication shopsMetalworking shops, manufacturing facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate brake presses to bend metal sheetsSet up and operate press brakes for precise bending
Industry UsageCommon in metal fabrication, manufacturingCommon in sheet metal work, manufacturing

Both roles involve operating metal bending equipment and require safety certifications. The main difference is that a Brake Operator may refer broadly to operating various brake machines, while a Press Brake Operator specifically focuses on using press brakes for precise metal bending tasks. They often overlap in work environment and certifications, but the Press Brake Operator role emphasizes detailed setup and operation of press brakes for complex projects.

How much do brake operators make?

Brake operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often work in manufacturing or transportation environments, operating machinery to bend, cut, or shape metal parts. Salaries can vary based on certifications, shift differentials, and company size.

Is a press brake operator a good job?

A press brake operator is a skilled manufacturing role responsible for bending metal sheets using a press brake machine. It offers steady employment opportunities, requires attention to safety protocols, and often involves working in a manufacturing or fabrication environment. The job can provide a stable career with opportunities for skill development and advancement.

What are popular job titles related to Brake Operator jobs in VA?

For Brake Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Brake Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Brake Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,269 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

VA Railcar Repair Mechanic - Heavy Equipment Operator

CalmHR Inc

Emporia, VA • On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description:

The Railcar Repair Mechanic / Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for inspecting, repairing, maintaining, and operating railroad freight cars and heavy equipment in support of rail operations. This position combines railcar mechanical repair with the safe operation of heavy equipment used in railcar maintenance, derailment response, track maintenance, loading, and material handling. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, mechanically skilled, and capable of working in demanding outdoor environments.


  • Inspect, maintain, and repair freight railcars in accordance with FRA, AAR, and company standards.
  • Perform repairs to railcar components including brake systems, couplers, draft gear, safety appliances, wheels, bearings, and air systems.
  • Weld, cut, fabricate, and replace damaged structural components on railcars.
  • Perform railcar inspections to identify defects and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
  • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, skid steers, forklifts, telehandlers, cranes, and other equipment used in rail operations.
  • Conduct daily pre-operation inspections and routine maintenance on heavy equipment.
  • Assist with derailment recovery, railcar rerailing, and emergency response operations when required.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on shop equipment and company machinery.
  • Troubleshoot and repair hydraulic, diesel, mechanical, and electrical systems on heavy equipment as needed.
  • Complete work orders, inspection reports, and maintenance documentation accurately.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow all FRA, OSHA, AAR, company safety policies, and customer operating procedures.
  • Work independently or as part of a field service crew at customer locations.

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Experience in railcar repair, welding, heavy equipment operation, or related mechanical field preferred.
  • Knowledge of freight car mechanical systems and railroad safety practices.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to read repair manuals, blueprints, mechanical drawings, and technical instructions.
  • Welding certification or experience with MIG, Stick (SMAW), and oxy-fuel cutting preferred.
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL preferred.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required railroad certifications and customer qualifications.
  • Mechanical aptitude with strong troubleshooting skills.
Requirements:
  • Railcar inspection and repair
  • Freight car brake system repair
  • Welding and metal fabrication
  • Heavy equipment operation
  • Hydraulic and diesel equipment maintenance
  • Mechanical troubleshooting
  • Safe work practices
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Strong communication and teamwork
  • Ability to work under minimal supervision


  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
  • Ability to climb railcars, ladders, and heavy equipment.
  • Ability to stand, walk, kneel, crouch, crawl, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, nights, holidays, and emergency call-outs as needed.
Working Conditions 
  • Rail yards, customer industrial facilities, repair shops, and field service locations.
  • Exposure to moving rail equipment, heavy machinery, loud noise, dust, grease, welding fumes, and varying weather conditions.
  • Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, high-visibility clothing, and fall protection when required.

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