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Entry Level Railroad Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Railroad information

See Madison, WI salary details

$10

$19

$25

How much do entry level railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level railroad in Madison, WI is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level railroad job?

Entry level railroad jobs are positions within the rail industry that typically require little or no prior railroad experience. Common roles include track laborers, conductors, signal maintainers, and locomotive trainees. These positions involve tasks such as inspecting and maintaining tracks, assisting with train operations, and ensuring safety standards are met. Most entry level jobs offer on-the-job training and require a high school diploma or GED. They are ideal for individuals looking to start a career in the railroad industry and often provide opportunities for advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level railroad worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Railroad Worker, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, mechanical aptitude, and basic knowledge of railway operations. Familiarity with safety protocols, hand tools, and, in some cases, certification in track safety or signal systems is important. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help ensure safety and efficiency on the job. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining safe railway operations and ensuring the smooth movement of trains and cargo.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level railroad workers, and how can new hires effectively adapt to them?

Entry-level railroad workers often encounter challenges such as adjusting to irregular work hours, working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. New hires can adapt by maintaining good physical fitness, staying vigilant about safety procedures, and being open to learning from more experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being flexible with scheduling will also help new employees succeed and grow within the railroad industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Railroad vs Entry Level Locomotive Engineer?

AspectEntry Level RailroadEntry Level Locomotive Engineer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require safety trainingHigh school diploma; certification or licensing often required
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance facilitiesLocomotive cabs, train yards, on-track operations
Employer & Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight and passenger servicesRailroad companies, freight and passenger services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in railroadsLearning about starting careers as locomotive engineers

Entry Level Railroad positions typically involve working in rail yards or maintenance facilities with minimal licensing requirements. In contrast, Entry Level Locomotive Engineers focus on operating trains and often require specific certifications or licensing. Both roles are essential in the railroad industry, but they differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Railroad jobs in Madison, WI?

For Entry Level Railroad jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Railroad jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Railroad jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Entry Level Railroad jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Entry Level Railroad job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Railroad job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,184 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Wisconsin Building Supply rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Wisconsin Building Supply operates locations throughout Wisconsin supplying windows, doors, roofing, siding, millwork, builders hardware, columns, trim, mouldings, cabinetry, countertops, decking, railing, gypsum, lumber & plywood, insulation, and additional building materials.

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A Brief Overview
The Yard/Warehouse Rep I receives, stocks, ships, orders and counts inventory items. This is an entry level position that is responsible for the safe operation of a forklift in order to stock all lumber and building materials. This person will perform duties within the established work and safety procedures.
What you will do

  • Operate safely.
  • Participate in a positive work environment
  • Assist warehouse associates and direct supervisor in maintaining an organized work environment.
  • May include, emptying trash receptacles, and keeping all bays and staging areas clean and organized.
  • Receive incoming products, commodities and materials.
  • Provides Excellent Customer Service
  • Count and record receipt of materials.
  • Stock all material received in appropriate bins or storage locations.
  • Assist inventory control in counting and organizing warehouse materials.
  • Operate forklift with foot and hand controls.
  • May use forklift to build outgoing orders or to load completed orders onto delivery equipment
  • Operate facility equipment as necessary (e.g. bander, power tools, various hand tools).
  • Monitor inventory as required by location management.
  • Retain an awareness of the work environment critical to the task at hand to produce error free and damage free results.


Required For All Jobs

  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Comply with all policies and standards.
  • Adhere to Company’s commitment to workplace safety.
  • Participate in and complete assigned trainings.


Education Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED required.


Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to do basic math, read orders, write instructions and complete forms.
  • Ability/willingness to learn to read a tape measure.
  • Ability to effectively and professionally communicate with customers, other employees and supervisors using verbal and written skills.
  • Ability to deal constructively with conflict and recognize potential problems.
  • Proficiency with or ability to learn current technologies (e.g. Smartphone, Inventory Control Systems, and other necessary business applications).

Additional Potential Opportunities based on experience:

  • YDWAR2 - Yard/Warehouse Rep II

  • YWLEAD - Yard/Warehouse Lead

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Wisconsin Building Supply, a Division of US LBM Holdings, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, order of protection status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local law.


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