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Contract Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AK Steel

$70K - $90K/yr

The Logistics Buyer will analyze rail contract proposals, quantify cost impacts, support rail contract negotiations, and help optimize routings to ensure competitive and efficient service. The ideal ...

Hitachi, Ltd.

Contracts Specialist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

HITACHI RAIL STS USA, INC. Profession (Job Category): Customer Service & Contact Center Operations ... Strong experience with contract terms and conditions negotiation expertise * Strong skill ...

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

Logistics Buyer

Cleveland, OH

$33.65 - $43.27/hr

The Logistics Buyer will analyze rail contract proposals, quantify cost impacts, support rail contract negotiations, and help optimize routings to ensure competitive and efficient service. The ideal ...

Bechtel

Contracts Manager

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$159K - $231K/yr

... rail under California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) oversight and following Caltrans ... Manage complex contract changes by collaborating with project coordinators and obtaining necessary ...

Dewberry

Railway Senior Construction Manager

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$141K - $170K/yr

Duties may include reading and understanding contract language making recommendations for partial ... Considerable knowledge of rail stations, bridges, facility, roadway, structure, traffic engineering ...

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Contract Railroad information

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$17

$26

$49

How much do contract railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract railroad in the United States is $26.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Railroad workers when adapting to different worksites and clients?

Contract Railroad workers often transition between various projects, each with unique operational standards, safety protocols, and client expectations. Adapting quickly to new environments, understanding site-specific rules, and communicating effectively with unfamiliar teams can be challenging. Building flexibility, staying current on safety certifications, and maintaining a proactive approach to learning site requirements help professionals excel in this fast-paced, variable work setting.

What is the difference between Contract Railroad vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectContract RailroadRailroad Conductor
CredentialsVaries, often includes safety certifications and experience in rail operationsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety training, and certification
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often on specific projects or short-term assignmentsEmployed by a railroad company, working on daily train operations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by various rail companies for flexible staffingEmployed directly by a railroad company, integral to train crew
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for employment flexibility and project-based workCompared for daily operational roles and responsibilities

In summary, Contract Railroad workers typically operate on a temporary or project basis, offering flexibility for rail companies, while Railroad Conductors are full-time employees responsible for train operations and safety. Both roles require safety certifications and industry knowledge but differ mainly in employment structure and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Railroad Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Railroad Worker, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety protocols, and equipment handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with track maintenance machinery, inspection tools, and sometimes certifications such as FRA track safety standards is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills are vital soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure safe, efficient railroad operations and help prevent accidents or costly delays.

What are contract railroad workers?

Contract railroad workers are professionals who are employed by third-party companies, rather than directly by a railroad company, to perform specialized tasks on railroads. Their work may include track construction, maintenance, repairs, inspections, or other services required to keep railroad operations running smoothly. This arrangement allows railroads to access skilled labor for specific projects or during peak periods without expanding their permanent workforce. Contract railroad workers often travel to various job sites and must follow strict safety and industry regulations.
More about Contract Railroad jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Railroad jobs? Cities with the most Contract Railroad job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad jobs? The most popular types of Railroad jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Railroad jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Railroad jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Railroad jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Railroad jobs are:
Contract Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Railroad job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,445 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Logistics Buyer

Logistics Buyer

AK Steel

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Location: Cleveland, OH

Cleveland-Cliffs has an immediate opening for a Logistics Buyer for rail freight within the Logistics Department at our Corporate Headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. This role is responsible for supporting the development of cost-effective rail transportation solutions for new and existing customers by working closely with railroad partners and internal Commercial teams. The Logistics Buyer will analyze rail contract proposals, quantify cost impacts, support rail contract negotiations, and help optimize routings to ensure competitive and efficient service. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in rail logistics, high analytical capability, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high attention to detail and strong ethical standards.

Summary of Responsibilities:

  • Analyze rail carrier contract proposals, rate structures, and incentives to quantify financial impacts

  • Work collaboratively with Class I and regional railroads to develop cost-effective routings and transportation solutions for new customers and business opportunities

  • Assist in evaluating rail service options, routes, and network strategies to optimize cost, service, and reliability

  • Ensure all logistics and contracting activities align with company policies, standards, and ethical guidelines

  • Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Transportation, or a related field

  • Experience in rail logistics

  • Strong analytical skills

  • Working knowledge of rail carrier contracts, rail rate structures, and routing strategies

  • Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

  • Effective communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to work cross-functionally

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience supporting rail contract negotiations or commercial rail agreements

  • Heavy industrial, manufacturing, steel, or bulk commodity transportation experience

  • Strong understanding of North American rail networks and service considerations

Relocation assistance is not provided for this position.

The salary range for this role is $70,000 to $90,000. An employee's pay within the salary range will be based on numerous factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and business or organizational needs.

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is the largest flat-rolled steel producer and the largest iron ore pellet producer in North America. The Company is vertically integrated from mined raw materials and direct reduced iron to primary steelmaking and downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. We offer an excellent total compensation package including competitive pay with variable compensation opportunity, health insurance, retirement plan, education assistance, paid time off, and more.

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail tocareers@clevelandcliffs.comor call 1-(312) 899-3097 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Do not email your application materials to this email address. Application materials sent to this email address will not be considered.

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is an equal opportunity employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability. We are a drug-free workplace and conduct pre-employment screening as a condition of employment.

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About AK Steel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AK Steel is a leading producer of flat-rolled carbon, stainless, and electrical steel products in the United States. With a rich heritage spanning over a century, AK Steel is known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. AK Steel's product portfolio encompasses a wide range of steel solutions tailored to meet the needs of various industries, including automotive, construction, appliances, electrical, and packaging. The advanced manufacturing facilities and state-of-the-art technologies enable AK Steel to produce high-quality steel products that meet stringent specifications and performance requirements.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

West Chester, OH, US

Year founded

1899

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