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Class Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Class Railroad information

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$788

$1.4K

$1.9K

How much do class railroad jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average weekly pay for class railroad in the United States is $1,444.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,250.00 and $1,625.00 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Class I Railroad worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Class I Railroad worker, you need a solid understanding of rail operations, safety regulations, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with railroad signaling systems, track inspection tools, and computerized scheduling software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring safety and efficiency. These competencies are vital because they help maintain safe rail operations, minimize delays, and support the smooth movement of freight and passengers.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working for a Class I railroad, and how can they be addressed?

Working for a Class I railroad often involves irregular hours, complex logistics, and strict safety protocols. Employees may face long shifts, time away from home, and variable schedules, especially in operational roles. Adapting to these challenges requires strong time management, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety. Many companies offer comprehensive training, support networks, and opportunities to move into roles with more predictable schedules over time, helping employees balance work and personal life.

What are Class I Railroads?

Class I Railroads are the largest freight railroad companies in the United States, defined by their annual operating revenue, which is set by the Surface Transportation Board and adjusted for inflation (about $900 million as of 2021). These railroads operate vast networks across North America and play a critical role in transporting goods such as coal, agricultural products, and manufactured goods. Examples of Class I Railroads include Union Pacific, BNSF Railway, CSX, and Norfolk Southern. They are essential to the nation's supply chain and economy, moving large volumes of freight efficiently over long distances.

What is the difference between Class Railroad vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectClass RailroadSignal Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, relevant certificationsHigh school diploma, signal system certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance facilitiesSignal systems, trackside equipment, control centers
Industry UsageMajor railroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroads, transit agencies, freight companies

Class Railroad workers perform a variety of roles related to train operations, maintenance, and safety, often involving track work and equipment handling. Signal Maintainers specialize in maintaining and repairing signal systems that ensure safe train movement. While both roles work within the railroad industry and require technical skills, Signal Maintainers focus specifically on signaling systems, making their work more specialized within the broader Class Railroad workforce.

More about Class Railroad jobs
What cities are hiring for Class Railroad jobs? Cities with the most Class Railroad job openings:
What states have the most Class Railroad jobs? States with the most job openings for Class Railroad jobs include:
Infographic showing various Class Railroad job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Full Time, and 98% Part Time. Highlights an 25% Physical, 25% Hybrid, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,106 per year, or $36.1 per hour.
Railroad Engineer

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

PRS Auto is hiring immediately for a Railroad Conductor & Engineer to join our team at the Union Pacific Houston, TX Auto Terminal!
PRIOR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.  We are looking for ambitious, capable, and skilled team members to join our nationwide crew. We offer a team-oriented atmosphere with quality employee benefits, and room to grow your career!  We have multiple shifts available both day and night.

Apply Online or in Person at the work location:

PRS Auto (UP Houston Railroad)
20909 West Hardy Rd
Houston, TX 77073
Pay: $17-18 per hour to start
Benefits: (Medical benefits start after 60 days and the first of the month after that. Other benefits start after your 90-day probationary period)
  • Affordable Healthcare, Free Dental, cheap Vision Benefits.
  • Free Life Insurance.
  • Paid holidays, paid personal days.
  • Boot reimbursement.
  • 401K.
  • Vacation Pay.
  • Weekly Pay.
  • Travel Opportunities.
  • Automobile Manufacturer Discounts.
  • Safety Incentives and Bonus programs.

APPLICANTS MUST currently live within a 45 minute commute of our business location. OUT OF AREA candidates and/or those requiring a relocation will NOT be considered.
Job Summary
The Conductor and Engineer are responsible for the movement of rail equipment to ensure the accurate placement of rail cars that will facilitate the loading and unloading of trains in the rail yard.
Various shifts available both day and night (Typically 8-12 hr shifts depending on workload) 

Job Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for assisting the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment (locomotives, rail cars, tracks, etc.) within the rail yard in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Maintain an efficient and orderly rail yard by moving rail cars and freeing rail tracks for incoming rail traffic.
  • Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks.
  • Ability to connect and disconnect rail air hoses as needed to consolidate rail cars efficiently.
  • Lead job briefings with the Supervisors and crew prior to work beginning.
  • Ensures compliance is met under HAZMAT and OSHA Regulations. This includes reporting any incidents to the supervisory immediately.
  • The conductor is required to wear Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), such as a safety vest, safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety toe boots.
  • Responsible for maintaining clear communication with Train Engineer/Operator and other crew members while moving locomotives with either verbal, hand, or radio signals.
  • Participates in daily safety briefings.
  • Inspects all rail equipment to ensure there is no damage and notify the operator and supervisor immediately if there is.
  • Handles all rail equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Maintain awareness and organization within the rail yard, including attention to the ground surface (potholes, debris, and/or slippery conditions).

Minimum Qualifications:
  • You must have a valid driver's license.
  • Prior Conductor / Engineer experience is required. 
  • You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience.
  • You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
  • You must have excellent written and verbal communication skills to coordinate with a variety of individuals.

Work Environment Requirements:
  • Job duties are performed in an ambient outdoor environment, which would include varying conditions (rain, snow, ice, heat, wind, cold, etc).
  • This position requires that you travel throughout the yard and the transfer station either by walking and/or driving.
  • The noise level in the work environment is loud and this noise is continuous.
  • You must have the ability to work in an environment which can be hazardous at times.  
  • You must have the physical ability to see and hear fast-moving equipment and be able to move so that you can remain safe always.

You will be an employee of PRS Auto and not an employee of the Railroad.  

About Rail Management Services:

One of America’s largest intermodal terminal operators, with more than 60 U.S. intermodal and auto handling facilities.Rail Management Services (RMS) is one of the largest suppliers of intermodal ramp services in the United States handling over 9 million lifts per year. An FRA certified rail switching service provider, RMS serves all U.S. Class 1 railroads.With more than three decades of experience focused on facilitating the railroad motor carrier interface, RMS has been the lowest cost and most efficient providers while maintaining one of the best safety records in the industry. Today RMS subsidiaries include Pacific Rail Services, Pacific Trailer Repair Services, Rail Terminal Services, Terminal Switching Services and PRS Auto.