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Hourly Rail Train Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO · On-site

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

Ensure 100% compliance with all train orders, signals, railroad operating rules, FRA regulations, and MSHA standards. * Perform comprehensive physical inspections of railcars, air brake hoses, safety ...

Train Crew - Denver, CO

Denver, CO · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Train Crew employees are responsible for providing the safe and timely movement of customers ... operating remote control locomotives, applying, and releasing hand brakes, riding rail cars ...

Cog Railway - Engineer Job Pay Rate: $18.00/Hr. Job Summary: The Broadmoor is committed to creating ... Regularly required to sit for long periods while operating the train. Frequent standing, walking ...

Track Laborer

Englewood, CO · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

360 Rail Services, LLC is a locally owned and operated Railroad design, construction and ... Experience in the rail industry is preferred, but we are willing to train the right individuals.

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Hourly Rail Train Operator information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an hourly rail train operator?

To thrive as an Hourly Rail Train Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong attention to safety protocols, and a clean driving record, often supplemented by specialized training or certification in rail operations. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling equipment, and communication tools is typically required. Outstanding situational awareness, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe and timely transport of passengers or freight and for maintaining operational efficiency in a regulated environment.

What is an hourly rail train operator?

Hourly rail train operators are professionals responsible for operating trains on a scheduled basis, typically working shifts that are paid by the hour. They ensure the safe and timely transportation of passengers or freight along designated rail routes. Their duties include monitoring train controls, adhering to safety protocols, communicating with dispatchers, and responding to emergencies or unexpected situations on the tracks. These operators play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and safety of rail transportation systems.

How many hours does an hourly rail train operator work?

Hourly rail train operators typically work shifts that range from 8 to 12 hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on the schedule and company policies. Overtime may be required during peak times or emergencies, and schedules often involve rotating shifts to ensure 24/7 service coverage.

What is the difference between Hourly Rail Train Operator vs Conductor?

AspectHourly Rail Train OperatorConductor
CredentialsState-issued train operator license, safety certificationsConductor certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentOperate trains, monitor controls, ensure safetyCoordinate train operations, oversee passenger safety
Employer & IndustryRailroads, transit agencies

Both roles are essential in rail operations, with the train operator focusing on driving and controlling the train, while the conductor manages passenger safety and operational coordination. They often work together but have distinct responsibilities within the rail industry.

What are some common challenges faced by hourly rail train operators, and how can they be managed?

Hourly rail train operators often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to schedules, managing unexpected delays, and ensuring passenger safety in a variety of weather and operational conditions. Effective communication with dispatchers and other crew members is crucial for timely problem-solving, and operators must remain alert at all times to quickly respond to signals or track obstructions. Staying current on safety procedures and participating in ongoing training can help operators manage these challenges and maintain a smooth, efficient service.
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Hourly Rail Train Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Hourly Rail Train Operator job openings:

Rail Operator

Martin Marietta

Canon City, CO • On-site

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

351st of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

JOB SUMMARY 
The Rail Operator is a critical member of the Martin Marietta/Rock & Rail LLC logistics team, responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable movement of freight trains, aggregates, and materials within our quarry, plant, and yard rail networks. The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance. This role requires strict adherence to Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) guidelines, and Martin Marietta/ Rock & Rail LLC rigorous "Safety First" corporate culture. The objective is to facilitate seamless supply chain distribution while ensuring zero incidents in a highly demanding, safety-sensitive industrial environment. 
 
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 
  • Direct and execute safe ground-level switching, coupling, and uncoupling operations of railcars to facilitate efficient material loading and unloading. 
  • Manually align and operate track switches and derail devices, ensuring proper switch point alignment prior to authorizing train movements. 
  • Safely ride on the exterior ladders and grab irons of moving rail equipment for extended periods during pushing and shoving movements. 
  • Coordinate the exact spotting and staging of heavy aggregate cars at distribution yards, loading chutes, and under unloader mechanisms. 
  • Ensure 100% compliance with all train orders, signals, railroad operating rules, FRA regulations, and MSHA standards. 
  • Perform comprehensive physical inspections of railcars, air brake hoses, safety appliances, and couplings prior to train departure to detect defects. 
  • Conduct routine field repairs on railcars as needed, including replacing broken knuckle couplers and swapping out worn air brake hoses. 
  • Monitor track conditions for anomalies such as broken rails, debris, defective switches, or weather-related hazards to prevent derailments. 
  • Act as the primary ground communicator, utilizing clear and precise radio transmissions, hand signals, and lantern signals to direct train speed and distance. 
  • Review, interpret, and execute daily switch lists, bulletins, and work orders. 
  • Maintain accurate paper or digital records of railcar movements, mechanical defect reports, tracking manifests, and billing handoffs. 
  • Strictly enforce Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures when performing minor mechanical adjustments and assist in maintaining clean, debris-free rail paths. 
  • Correctly wear and maintain all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including steel-toed boots, high-visibility vest, hard hat, and protective eyewear at all times. 
 
QUALIFICATIONS 
Education 
High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience 
Vocational training or equivalent experience is preferred. 
Valid State Driver’s License  
Work Experience 
1+ year of direct Railroad experience as a Rail Operator 
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 
Safety focused 
Comply with all railroad rules, regulations, and instructions 
Knowledge of machines and tools 
Equipment maintenance 
Inspection and maintenance procedures 
Preventative maintenance procedures 
Problem solving skills 
Detail oriented 
Time management 
Effective communicator (written and spoken) 
 
ADDITIONAL DETAILS 
Physical Requirements 
Must be able to lift and carry up to 150 lbs. for maintenance and equipment servicing. 
Required to bend, stoop, climb, and reach. You must be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders. 
Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. You must have good depth perception with or without seeing aid for distances up to 150 feet. 
Distinguish and interpret color signals and switch indicators. 
Working Conditions 
All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all weather conditions, cold, wet, dry and dusty. Must be able to work in areas where noise levels are up to 85 dbs.  
Disclaimers 
In addition to the primary responsibilities outlined, the successful candidate may be expected to take on other tasks and assignments as required, including but not limited to duties outside the typical scope of the role to support overall team operations and organizational needs. Flexibility and adaptability to evolving job demands are essential. 
 
COMPENSATION
The hiring range for this position is $26.90 -$36.40; exclusive of benefits or bonuses (discretionary and non-discretionary). The offered base compensation will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, business need, market conditions, proficiencies, skills, education, and experience. Additionally, at Martin Marietta we place a high value on internal pay equity and will consider the compensation for those in similarly situated roles and direct team members. The hiring range for this role represents the base compensation we expect to pay for the position at time of hire and does not represent the total possible base pay of the position.
 
In addition to our base compensation, we also offer a competitive benefits package for full-time employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage; prescription drug coverage; health savings accounts; flexible spending accounts; life, AD&D and disability insurance; 401(k) with a company match and an employer-funded defined benefit pension plan. Other benefits include paid time off, paid holidays, education/tuition assistance, an employee discount program, adoption assistance, wellness programs and more.
Part time employees are eligible to participate in the 401k plan and receive a company match. In addition, they are eligible to start accruing service for the pension plan.

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About Martin Marietta

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1994