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Entry Level Railway Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

It is an entry level rail car loading position, reporting into the Plant Services Supervisor, which includes inspecting and loading chemical railcars and trucks for the following product lines: KOH ...

Rail Systems Engineer I

Somerset, WI · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

... entry level engineering work supporting the design, development, integration, and testing of railroad signaling and communications systems. This role works under the supervision of senior engineers ...

... entry level engineering work supporting the design, development, integration, and testing of railroad signaling and communications systems. This role works under the supervision of senior engineers ...

... entry level engineering work supporting the design, development, integration, and testing of railroad signaling and communications systems. This role works under the supervision of senior engineers ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Poynette, WI

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

This is an entry level position with on the job training. If you are a creative problem-solver who ... Cleans out rail cars. Removes labels from cans. Assists in loading of rail cars and trucks. What ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Poynette, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

This is an entry level position with on the job training. If you are a creative problem-solver who ... Assists in loading of rail cars and trucks.What You?ll Bring: High school diploma or general ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Poynette, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

This is an entry level position with on the job training. If you are a creative problem-solver who ... Assists in loading of rail cars and trucks.What You?ll Bring: High school diploma or general ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Poynette, WI

$16.75 - $20/hr

This is an entry level position with on the job training. If you are a creative problem-solver who ... rail cars. • Removes labels from cans. • Assists in loading of rail cars and trucks. What You ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Poynette, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

This is an entry level position with on the job training. If you are a creative problem-solver who ... rail cars. • Removes labels from cans. • Assists in loading of rail cars and trucks. What You ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Poynette, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

This is an entry level position with on the job training. If you are a creative problem-solver who ... rail cars. • Removes labels from cans. • Assists in loading of rail cars and trucks. What You ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Poynette, WI

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

This is an entry level position with on the job training. If you are a creative problem-solver who ... rail cars. • Removes labels from cans. • Assists in loading of rail cars and trucks. What You ...

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Entry Level Railway information

See Wisconsin salary details

$9

$18

$24

How much do entry level railway jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level railway in Wisconsin is $18.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.46 and $19.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level railway job?

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.

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

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Railway jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Railway jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Railway jobs in Wisconsin?

For Entry Level Railway jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Railway job openings in Wisconsin 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 $38,732 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Railway Car Technician (Car Mechanic)

Fond Du Lac, WI • On-site


Canadian National Railway Company
Rail Transportation • 10K+ employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

135th of 366 rated logistics

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$42.49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Qualified Rate : $42.49 Per hour
Please note that new hires in this role may be paid a lower hourly rate during their qualifying period. In addition, CN employees are also eligible to an employee share investment plan (ESIP), Pension, Benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) and other perks.
Railway Car Technician (Car Mechanic)
At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.
If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!
Job Summary
The Car Mechanic Apprentice is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, building and repairing railway freight cars and equipment in accordance with Federal and CN's regulations. The incumbent is considered a Car Mechanic Apprentice until they have graduated to Journey Car Mechanic.
Working Conditions
  • Irregular shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime
  • Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.
  • Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling, performing overhead work, lifting/carrying up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 85 pounds
  • Frequent climbing, balancing, grasping, and good eye-hand coordination
  • May be required to work away from assigned terminal.

Major Responsibilities
  • Inspect cars and components in accordance with railroad associations, Federal Railroad Administration regulations, and company operating standards.
  • Perform all scheduled, on-request and preventive maintenance and repair on rail cars, under frames, on structures, safety appliances, draft systems and any associated tests.
  • Repair and install railway car parts such as compressors, air valves, bearings, couplings, air cylinders and piping.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, welding equipment, cutting torches and measuring instruments.
  • Operate transport vehicles including cranes, trucks, track mobile and shop equipment.
  • Prepare inspection, maintenance and work reports, and record details on prescribed forms in accordance with established procedures.

Requirements
  • High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED).
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
  • A valid driver's license.
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and manage stress.
  • Demonstrates good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Good verbal, reading comprehension and writing skills.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, and client satisfaction.
  • Familiarity with electrical and electronic tools and instruments.
  • Ability to determine the condition of objects and parts for wear and defects.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety Critical Positions established by the FRA regulation.
  • Ability to pass a background investigation pertaining to federal and state criminal history, including driver history

Assets
  • Previous welding experience gained through formal training or work experience
  • Vocational/technical training and/or knowledge of Railroad Operating Rules
  • Familiarity with electrical and electronic tools and instruments
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and manage stress
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others
  • Good verbal, reading comprehension and writing skills
  • Ability to determine the condition of objects/parts for wear and/or defects
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety and client satisfaction

What We Offer
  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

Paid Training:
Newly hired Car Mechanics will take part in paid training which includes classroom instructions and field training during their first months of service. The training guides the new Car Mechanic through the critical safety skills required to work on the railroad.
Once the classroom training is complete, the Car Mechanic will complete on the job training to enhance their knowledge and skills. Successful completion of the training course is essential to maintain employment as a Car Mechanic. An apprentice's application may be rescinded in the event that they do not display the aptitude or desire to learn within the first 120 days of their employment.
Successful Candidate Process:
  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).
  • Criminal background check
  • Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:
  • 3 weeks in CN campus (Homewood, IL)
  • 2+ weeks in shop (on-the-job training)
  • 3 weeks in CN campus (Homewood, IL)

About CN
CN is a premium railroad that sustainably generates value for our customers, shareholders, employees, and stakeholders with an unwavering commitment to safety and service. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. CN's network connects Canada's Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through a 20,000-mile rail network. CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN powers the North American economy and is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
At CN, we are dedicated to building North America's safest, most inclusive and sustainable railroad, which includes reflecting the communities in which we operate. Research shows that candidates often don't apply unless they feel they fit the job posting at 100%. To all potential applicants, even if you don't meet every job requirement listed in a posting, we still encourage you to apply. If you require an accommodation for the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials, accessible meeting rooms or other accommodations), please get in touch with our team at cnrecruitment@cn.ca.
As an equal opportunity employer, qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.
Please monitor your email on a regular basis as communication to applicants is done via email.


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