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Entry Level Railway Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Management Services

Rail Jockey Driver

Hershey, PA · On-site

$20.50 - $22.44/hr

We're hiring Entry-Level Rail Yard Operators . No CDL or prior hostler driving experience required. Full training provided. Note: This posting is for the Rutherford location only . Other locations ...

Rail Management Services

Railroad Laborer

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

**NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED* - Entry-level Position - Hiring Immediately! PRS Auto is seeking individuals to unload (drive) new automobiles off of Railcars at the Norfolk Southern Walkertown, NC rail ...

Rail Management Services

Railroad Laborer

Waverly, VA · On-site

$17/hr

This is an entry-level position with the opportunity for growth for individuals who are interested in a career in the railroad industry. We have several locations throughout the country and pride ...

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How much do entry level railway jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level railway in the United States is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Railway Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Railway Worker, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a strong understanding of safety procedures. Familiarity with railway-specific tools, track inspection equipment, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or railroad safety training are commonly required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safe and efficient railway operations while working in physically demanding and safety-critical environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level railway employees, and how can they be prepared to address them?

Entry level railway employees often face challenges such as adapting to shift work, learning strict safety protocols, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions. It can take time to become familiar with the technical aspects of railway operations and to communicate effectively with more experienced team members. Preparing for these challenges involves being proactive in safety training, maintaining physical and mental resilience, and embracing opportunities to learn from colleagues. A positive attitude and strong attention to detail will help new employees succeed and advance in the railway industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Railway vs Entry Level Train Conductor?

AspectEntry Level RailwayEntry Level Train Conductor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require safety certificationsHigh school diploma; safety and operational training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, stations, and tracks; outdoor and indoor settingsOnboard trains, stations, and depots; outdoor and indoor
Employer & Industry UsageRailroad companies, transit agenciesRailroad companies, transit agencies

Entry Level Railway roles typically involve working in rail yards or stations, focusing on safety, maintenance, or operational support. Entry Level Train Conductors primarily operate trains, ensuring passenger safety and adherence to schedules. Both roles require safety certifications and share similar work environments, but conductors have more direct interaction with train operations and passengers.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired for an entry-level railway position can be competitive, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and sometimes a valid driver’s license. Employers may also conduct background checks and drug tests, and some roles require safety training or certifications before starting.

What are entry level railway jobs?

Entry level railway jobs are positions within the rail industry that require minimal prior experience or specialized training. These roles often include titles like rail track laborer, train crew member, signal operator, or maintenance assistant. Employees in these positions typically assist with the maintenance and safe operation of trains and railway infrastructure. Entry level railway jobs can serve as stepping stones to more advanced roles within the industry, offering opportunities for on-the-job training and career advancement.

Which railway job is easy to get?

Entry-level railway positions such as track laborer or maintenance worker are generally easier to obtain due to lower experience requirements and high demand. These roles often require physical fitness and basic safety training, with some positions offering on-the-job training. Competition is typically lower compared to specialized roles like train engineers or signal operators.

How do I start working on the railroad?

To start working as an entry-level railway worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require a valid driver's license. You can apply through railway companies' career portals, and training is often provided on the job, including safety procedures and equipment operation. Physical fitness and the ability to work in various weather conditions are also important.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level railway jobs typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with executive, specialized consulting, or high-risk investment roles. Most railway positions offer hourly wages or salaries significantly below that amount, with higher earnings possible through overtime, bonuses, or management roles after experience. For high daily pay, careers in finance, consulting, or executive management are more common, but they generally require extensive experience and advanced skills.
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Entry Level Railway jobs near you
Entry Level Railroad Sales & Marketing Manager - Michigan

Entry Level Railroad Sales & Marketing Manager - Michigan

Watco

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Watco rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

241st of 341 rated logistics

Job description

Entry Level Railroad Sales & Marketing Manager - Michigan
Job Location: Michigan
Office Location: Remote
Employment Type: Salary
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
This is an entry-level position that will require residence or reloaction to the State of Michigan.
The Manager of Sales and Marketing is responsible for building and maintaining customer relationships, while growing the business, and optimizing Watco's assets by delivering expanded services and locations. This role focuses on multiple-freight railroads and terminal operations and holds accountability for overall sales and marketing performance across assigned properties. The successful candidate will drive revenue growth by developing new customers, strengthening existing relationships, and identifying strategic business development opportunities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Drive year-over-year EBITDA growth across assigned properties.
• Strengthening Watco's role within customers' supply chains by promoting and selling the full portfolio of Watco services.
• Proactively pursue new business opportunities and cultivate strategic customer relationships.
• Negotiate commercial transactions, legal agreements, and long-term commitments on behalf of Watco.
• Develop and communicate a strategic, long-term vision that aligns customer needs with market dynamics, industry trends, and competitive conditions.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of operational fundamentals, including cost structures and productivity constraints across Watco services.
• Apply financial acumen through quantitative analysis and fiscal modeling, including forecasting, NPV analysis, capital valuation, and internal rate of return calculations.
• Lead cross-functional teams (Sales, Operations, Finance, Project Management, People Services, EHS, etc.) to deliver customer solutions with integrity, professionalism, and persistence.
• Coordinate customer service responses with internal stakeholders to resolve issues diplomatically and effectively.
• Communicate regularly and effectively with management regarding goals, challenges, and performance using strong verbal, written, and listening skills.
Qualifications
• Entry-level experience or education in transportation sales preferred.
• Strong listening skills with the ability to probe for understanding and identify customer needs and priorities.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills or a strong aptitude to develop them.
• Ability to clearly present ideas, proposals, and results to customers and business leaders through various formats, including public speaking.
• Knowledge of industry practices, trends, and operational requirements within transportation and logistics.
• Ability to build and maintain a professional network of peers and industry contacts to exchange market insights.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, with experience in financial modeling.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to evaluate complex economic and financial scenarios.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks while maintaining confidentiality.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities independently and work autonomously.
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to take direction, adhere to work schedules, and maintain attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead cross-functional and ad-hoc teams.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% throughout the United States
Education
Bachelor's degree

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