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Contract Railway Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

Logistics Buyer

Cleveland, OH

$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 ...

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Contract Railway information

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$17

$26

$49

How much do contract railway jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract railway 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Railway Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Railway Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or mechanical engineering, railway system design, and project management, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional accreditation. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like AutoCAD, rail-specific modeling software, and compliance with safety regulations and certifications such as IRSE or PTS is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial to excel in collaborative, safety-critical environments. These competencies ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with stringent industry standards.

What is the difference between Contract Railway vs Contract Railroad?

AspectContract RailwayContract Railroad
CertificationsTypically requires railway operation certifications, safety training, and possibly freight handling licensesSimilar certifications, including safety and operational licenses
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, and freight terminals, often outdoors and physically demandingSame as Contract Railway, involving outdoor rail environments and logistics
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by railway companies, freight carriers, and logistics firmsCommonly used interchangeably with Contract Railway in industry and job searches

Contract Railway and Contract Railroad roles are very similar, often involving the same work environments, certifications, and industry usage. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, with both referring to contractual positions in railway operations, freight handling, and logistics. The main difference is often regional or employer preference, but overall, they describe comparable job functions in the rail industry.

What does a railroad contractor do?

A railroad contractor oversees the construction, maintenance, and repair of railway infrastructure, including tracks, bridges, and signaling systems. They coordinate with engineers and workers, ensure safety standards are met, and often operate heavy machinery or use specialized tools on job sites. Certification in safety protocols and knowledge of construction practices are typically required.

What is a Contract Railway worker?

A Contract Railway worker is a professional who is hired on a contractual basis to perform various tasks related to the construction, maintenance, or operation of railway systems. These workers may include engineers, maintenance staff, track inspectors, or construction crews who are not permanent employees but are engaged for specific projects or time periods. Their responsibilities can range from laying new tracks and repairing existing infrastructure to ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Working under contracts allows railway companies to scale their workforce based on project needs and timelines.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in contract railway roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in contract railway roles often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards, and managing project schedules within tight deadlines. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to address these challenges, as is a proactive approach to problem-solving. Familiarity with industry regulations and a commitment to ongoing training can also help ensure successful project delivery and foster positive working relationships with both internal teams and external partners.

What railroad jobs pay the most?

In the railroad industry, positions such as locomotive engineers, signal maintainers, and railroad conductors tend to have the highest salaries. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, and experience, and may involve working long or irregular hours. Management and safety-related positions can also offer higher compensation depending on the company and location.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the railway industry, senior roles such as railway executives, project managers, and specialized engineers can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially with experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require extensive industry knowledge, technical skills, and sometimes union or company-specific agreements that influence compensation.

What is the highest paid railway job?

The highest paid railway jobs are typically senior management positions such as railway executives, directors, or chief operating officers, who oversee operations and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry knowledge, and they can earn salaries exceeding six figures annually.
More about Contract Railway jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Railway jobs? Cities with the most Contract Railway job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railway jobs? The most popular types of Railway jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Railway jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Railway jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Railway jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Railway jobs are:
Contract Railway jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Railway job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 49% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 47% 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

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

Cleveland, OH

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Cleveland-Cliffs rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 111 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 30 rated mining

Job description

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 to careers@clevelandcliffs.com or 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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