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Freight Train Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Dayton Freight

Operations Supervisor

Lebanon, TN · On-site

Set up appointment freight deliveries * Perform and or assists with billing, rating, manifesting ... In conjunction with the Service Center Manager, recruit, qualify, interview, hire, train and ...

Dayton Freight

Diesel Mechanic

Lebanon, TN

$33.10 - $38.10/hr

... Dayton Freight Lines. * Understand troubleshooting diesel engine system with ECM diagnostic ... Develop skills to become proficient in the repair of all major power and drive train components

Dayton Freight

Diesel Mechanic

Lebanon, TN

$33.10 - $38.10/hr

... Dayton Freight Lines. * Understand troubleshooting diesel engine system with ECM diagnostic ... Develop skills to become proficient in the repair of all major power and drive train components

Dayton Freight

Diesel Mechanic

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$33.10 - $38.10/hr

... Dayton Freight Lines. * Understand troubleshooting diesel engine system with ECM diagnostic ... Develop skills to become proficient in the repair of all major power and drive train components

Harbor Freight Tools

Retail Stocking Manager

TN · On-site

$23.75 - $26.13/hr

Cross-train in all areas of store operations including Stocking/Sales associate duties, and ... About Harbor Freight Tools We're a 45 year-old, $8 billion national tool retailer with the energy ...

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All JobsFreight Train JobsFreight Train Jobs in Tennessee

Freight Train information

See Tennessee salary details

$29.5K

$45.4K

$60.4K

How much do freight train jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight train in Tennessee is $45,355.00, 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.

How hard is it to get hired by the railroad?

Getting hired as a freight train conductor or railroader typically requires relevant experience, a clean background check, and passing physical and drug tests. Many positions also require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some companies prefer candidates with prior transportation or industrial experience. The hiring process can be competitive and may involve multiple interviews and training programs.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A freight train conductor or engineer can earn around $4,000 per week with experience and certifications, such as a commercial driver's license and safety training. Other high-paying roles without a degree include certain sales positions, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, which often require specialized training or apprenticeships. These jobs typically involve physical work, technical skills, or licensing but do not require a college degree.

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.

What are freight trains?

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.

How much money does a freight train operator make?

A freight train operator typically earns a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work in shifts and require training on safety protocols and operating rail equipment.

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.

Is 55 too old to become a train driver?

Freight train drivers can typically start their careers at age 55, provided they meet health and certification requirements, which often include passing medical exams and gaining relevant licenses. Age limits vary by country and employer, but many rail companies value experience and may not have strict upper age restrictions for qualified candidates.
What are popular job titles related to Freight Train jobs in Tennessee? For Freight Train jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freight Train jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Freight Train jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Freight Train jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Freight Train job openings:
Freight Train jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Train job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,355 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Operations Supervisor

Operations Supervisor

Dayton Freight

Lebanon, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Dayton Freight rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 355 rated logistics

Job description

Overview

Available Shift:

3rd Shift | 9:00 PM - 6:00 AM

** During training/cross-training hours could vary **

  • Stable and growing organization
  • Competitive weekly pay
  • Quick advancement
  • Professional, positive and people-centered work environment
  • Modern facilities
  • Clean, late model equipment
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Health, Dental, Vision, AD&D, etc.
  • Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days
  • 401(k) plan, Company Match
Responsibilities

As an Operations Supervisor, you will plan, schedule, coordinate and implement methods and procedures that will ensure the most efficient and economical routing and movement of customers' freight in an error-free manner.

  • Compile production and service records and measure conformance to standards
  • Inspect and measure performance of personnel resulting in changes in work practices necessary to improve overall Service Center operations
  • Review logs and reports and confers with shift personnel to ascertain pertinent scheduling, production and administrative support requirements
  • Set up appointment freight deliveries
  • Perform and or assists with billing, rating, manifesting and analysis of freight weight and size
  • Maintain excellent communication with external and internal customers
  • Assist with training, development and evaluation of production and/or clerical personnel performance and recommends or initiates documentation
  • In conjunction with the Service Center Manager, recruit, qualify, interview, hire, train and develop Service Center personnel
  • Ensure that Service Center premises are protected and maintained
  • Assist in the investigation, reporting and initiation of corrective actions for accidents, job related injuries employee discrepancies
  • Understand and apply company safety practices including DOT, EPA, ICC and OSHA rules and regulations
  • Assist with the facilitation of information meetings with Service Center team members
  • Effectively handle special assignments as directed
Qualifications
  • Knowledge of the LTL/Transportation Industry
  • Has managed Drivers and Dockworkers
  • Knowledge of the surrounding geographical area to the Service Center
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Fluent in English
Benefits
  • Stable and growing organization
  • Competitive weekly pay
  • Quick advancement
  • Professional, positive and people-centered work environment
  • Modern facilities
  • Clean, late model equipment
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Health, Dental, Vision, AD&D, etc.
  • Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days
  • 401(k) plan, Company Match
Physical DemandsThis position requires the ability to perform a combination of administrative and operational duties in an office and dock environment. Duties may include standing and walking for extended periods, pushing or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with physical dock tasks such as handling freight and related materials.   * The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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