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Freight Train Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Freight Train information

See Alabama salary details

$29.5K

$45.3K

$60.3K

How much do freight train jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight train in Alabama is $45,294.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,900.00 and $50,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freight train?

Freight trains are trains specifically designed to transport goods and cargo, rather than passengers. They play a vital role in the logistics and supply chain industry by moving large quantities of materials such as coal, containers, vehicles, food products, and other commodities over long distances. Freight trains are typically longer and heavier than passenger trains and can consist of various types of railcars depending on the cargo being transported. Their efficiency and capacity make them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for bulk transportation.

What are some common challenges faced by freight train conductors during their shifts?

Freight train conductors often encounter challenges such as managing complex schedules, ensuring cargo safety, and adapting to variable weather conditions. They must also communicate effectively with dispatchers and engineers to coordinate train movements and respond quickly to unexpected delays or mechanical issues. Working long hours, sometimes overnight or on weekends, is typical, so adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freight train conductor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freight Train Conductor, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety regulations, and logistics, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized railroad training. Familiarity with railway signaling systems, electronic logging devices, and train dispatch software is essential. Strong attention to detail, decision-making skills, and effective communication help manage cargo and coordinate with crew members. These skills ensure the safe, timely, and efficient movement of freight, minimizing risks and maintaining operational reliability.

What is the difference between Freight Train vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectFreight TrainRailroad Conductor
Primary RoleOperates and drives freight trainsCoordinates train operations, manages crew, and ensures safety
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), train operation certificationRailroad employee certification, safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentTrain cab, rail yards, on tracksTrain cars, rail yards, station platforms
Industry UsageFreight transportation companies, railroadsRailroad companies, transit authorities

While a Freight Train operator primarily focuses on driving and operating trains, a Railroad Conductor manages train crews and oversees safety and operations. Both roles require safety certifications and work within the rail industry, but their responsibilities differ significantly.

How do you become a freight train driver?

To become a freight train driver, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid commercial driver's license with a passenger or freight endorsement, and completion of a training program or apprenticeship provided by a railroad company. Candidates must pass background checks, medical exams, and sometimes drug tests, and develop skills in operating train controls and understanding safety protocols.

How much are freight train drivers paid?

Freight train drivers, also known as locomotive engineers, typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work long hours and require certification and safety training to operate trains and handle complex equipment.

What qualifications do you need to drive a freight train?

To drive a freight train, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid commercial driver's license with a passenger and freight endorsement, and completion of a federal training program. They must also pass medical exams, background checks, and obtain certification from the relevant rail safety authority, along with gaining experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Freight Train jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Freight Train job openings:

Infographic showing various Freight Train job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,294 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Supervisor, Freight Operations

XPO Logistics

Bessemer, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


XPO rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 223 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 365 rated logistics


Job description

What you need to succeed as a Freight Operations Supervisor at XPO 

Minimum qualifications:

  • 2 years of related work experience in a warehouse, distribution, supply chain, transportation or similar environment
  • Knowledge of the Less-than-Truckload (LTL) industry, hazardous materials regulations and DOT rules and regulations
  • Available to work a variety of shifts, including days, evenings, nights and weekends

Preferred qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Transportation, Distribution or Logistics, or 4 years of related work or military experience
  • 2 years of supervisory experience
  • LTL industry experience
  • Positive attitude with the ability to multitask and motivate your team
  • Exceptional leadership, communication, and administrative skills

 

About the Freight Operations Supervisor job

Pay, benefits and more:

  • Competitive compensation package
  • Full health insurance benefits available on day one
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Earn up to 15 days of PTO over your first year
  • 9 paid company holidays
  • 401(k) option with company match
  • Education assistance
  • Opportunity to participate in a company incentive plan

What you'll do on a typical day:

  • Lead and supervise all aspects of freight operations
  • Develop and implement strategic work procedures to meet the evolving demands of the department
  • Evaluate, manage, assign and supervise workloads and tasks
  • Supervise hourly staff across various operations and act as primary point of contact for workplace concerns and questions
  • Ensure production goals are met by managing tonnage, payroll and other administrative functions
  • Plan hourly employee schedules to meet daily operations goals and lower costs
  • Enforce all company, FMCSR, OSHA, CCMTA, NSC and DOT policies, rules, regulations, and laws
  • Implement all applicable workplace policies and procedures and enforce compliance to optimize network performance
  • Ensure customer freight is processed, handled, loaded and delivered timely and damage free
  • Coach and develop employees on proper techniques and quality requirements, including conducting new hire employee evaluations and determining whether to issue corrective action for violations of XPO's workplace policies
  • Effectively direct a team to consistently meet or exceed productivity goals
  • Make recommendations regarding hiring, suspension and termination
  • Develop and present action plans to improve load average and model compliance
  • Participate in internal safety and engagement committees
  • Train employees on safety rules and processes
  • Monitor and maintain organization within the shift to ensure safety and productivity
  • Conduct daily staff meetings and communicate corporate messages, revisions to policies and procedures to all team members
  • Inspect working conditions of tools and equipment needed for safe operation within the workplace and direct the correction of any improper or adverse conditions that exist
  • Provide instruction, analyses, suggestions and ideas for improvement of operations within the shift and the service center
  • Act as a champion of XPO values by demonstrating them and holding your team to the same high standards
  • Minimize shipment rehandle across the network by prioritizing direct loading, headloads and sector loading while maintaining all company quality standards

Freight Operations Supervisors are required to:

  • Lift objects of various shapes, sizes and weights frequently up to 50 lbs. and occasionally greater than 75 lbs.
  • Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel
  • Walk and stand for extended periods on a loading dock that is not climate controlled
  • Work outside in inclement weather

About XPO

XPO is a top ten global provider of transportation services, with a highly integrated network of people, technology and physical assets. At XPO, we look for employees who like a challenge and can communicate effectively in all situations. We want to leverage your skills and years of experience to drive positive results while ensuring a bright future for yourself and XPO. If you're looking for a growth opportunity, join us at XPO. 

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, disability, veteran or other protected status.

All applicants who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to take and pass a pre-employment drug test. 

The above statements are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties and skills for this job classification. 

Review XPO's candidate privacy statement here.


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About XPO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in Greenwich, Connecticut, XPO Logistics, Inc., operating under the brand name XPO, is a one of the leading companies in the transportation and logistics sector. Operating its services in 30 countries, the company employs the use of ground-breaking technology in providing a broad suite of logistics services including supply chain management, freight brokerage, last mile logistics, and intermodal and drayage transportation. XPO's impressive history dates back to 2011 and within its relatively short existence, it has made a series of acquisitions to consolidate its top-notch range of services. Their mission is to provide outstanding results to customers by envisioning and implementing significant advancements in freight transportation and logistics.

Industry

Import-export

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Greenwich, CT, US