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Progress Rail Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation--driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world ...

Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become ...

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MACHINE OPERATOR

Sidney, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become ...

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Progress Rail information

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$11

$34

$74

How much do progress rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for progress rail in the United States is $34.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $45.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Progress Rail employee and what do they do?

A Progress Rail employee works for Progress Rail, a company that provides railroad and transit products and services. Employees may be involved in manufacturing, engineering, servicing, or maintaining railway equipment such as locomotives, track, and signaling systems. Their roles support the safety, efficiency, and reliability of rail operations worldwide. Depending on their specific job, they might work in the field, at a manufacturing plant, or in a corporate office. Progress Rail is a subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Progress Rail technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Progress Rail technician, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, experience with heavy machinery, and often a technical diploma or certification. Familiarity with diagnostic software, rail industry safety protocols, and equipment-specific tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure reliable equipment maintenance, operational safety, and efficient collaboration within rail industry environments.

What is the difference between Progress Rail vs Railroad Technician?

AspectProgress RailRailroad Technician
CertificationsManufacturing and maintenance certifications, such as ASE or OEM-specific trainingRailroad safety and operational certifications, including OSHA and FRA compliance
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, repair shops, and field maintenance sitesRail yards, trackside, and on-site at railroads
Industry UsageHeavy equipment manufacturing, locomotive and railcar maintenanceRailroad operations, track inspection, and repair

Progress Rail technicians focus on manufacturing, repairing, and maintaining rail equipment in industrial settings, while railroad technicians work directly on rail infrastructure and operational systems in the field. Both roles require technical skills but differ in work environment and specific certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working at Progress Rail, and how does the company support their professional development?

Employees at Progress Rail often work in dynamic environments that require adapting to evolving technology and industry standards. Common challenges include balancing production schedules with safety protocols and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams, sometimes in global settings. To support professional growth, Progress Rail offers training programs, mentorship opportunities, and pathways for advancement within the organization, enabling employees to build their skills and take on greater responsibilities over time.
More about Progress Rail jobs
What cities are hiring for Progress Rail jobs? Cities with the most Progress Rail job openings:
What states have the most Progress Rail jobs? States with the most job openings for Progress Rail jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Progress Rail jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Progress Rail jobs are:
Infographic showing various Progress Rail job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,327 per year, or $34.8 per hour.
Production Manager - 3rd Shift

Production Manager - 3rd Shift

Progress Rail Services Corporation

Muncie, IN • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Progress Rail rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

292nd of 419 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Purpose
Manages the structure and method of OEM engineering, manufacturing of locomotive products and related lean or value stream processes, scheduling both internally and reporting externally, employee performance and metrics and ensuring adherence to safety protocols. Oversees day-to-day operation and movement of the shop.
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world's largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in operation across more than 100 countries-powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail-they are making history every day.
Key Job Elements
• Manages and schedules manufacturing of Progress Rail products;
• Determines processing needs to assure fixtures, tooling and methods are provided to meet schedulers and production requirements;
• Determines overtime needs, determines priorities when resources are limited;
• Ensures necessary parts and materials are ordered and distributed;
• Suggests changes in working conditions and use of equipment to maximize efficiency;
• Ensures preventive maintenance is performed according to schedule;
• Implements various corporate initiatives, such as 5S, Lean Manufacturing, etc.;
• Monitors and improves safety on the shop floor; eliminates/mitigates any unsafe conditions;
• Evaluates, assesses, and identifies training needs for the work force; assists with creating, training, and implementing work standards;
• Adjusts section staffing to meet flow and customer requirements;
• Works with other major areas of the facility to facilitate cleanliness of units and full completion of issues that arise;
• Develops coworkers/team members to further strengthen their core competencies; provides feedback and evaluates employees;
Tracks production and material fallout;
• Practices and teaches CPS Guiding Principles;
• Drives Root Cause identification; drives continuous process improvement;
• Performs additional job-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications and Experience
• Requires a thorough knowledge of CPS processes and tools, machine shop operations, equipment, and processes, plus familiarity with materials and quality objectives;
• 3-5+ years of experience working in a machine tool environment; experience in production supervision;
• Supervisor and/or Manager training; ability to work together in a team environment; ability to manage a diverse workforce;
• Training in Lean Manufacturing and Auditing preferred;
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral;
• Strong proficiency with MS Office tools (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and Blueprint reading;
• Understanding of scheduling and manpower planning.
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.**
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Education Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
  • Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
  • Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs

*Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
**Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

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About Progress Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our team works hard to create lifelong customer relationships, supplying comprehensive rolling stock and infrastructure solutions for the global rail industry and setting the standard for excellence. We care about fostering the sustainable movement of goods and people for generations to come, and we know our customers care, too. Our strategic footprint ensures responsive, quality customer support all day, every day. We are one of the largest integrated diversified providers of rolling stock and infrastructure solutions and technologies for the global rail industry. The company provides advanced EMD® locomotives, engines, and technologies, railcars, trackwork, fasteners, signaling, rail welding and Kershaw® Maintenance-of-Way equipment, along with dedicated locomotive and freight car repair services, aftermarket parts support and recycling operations. Progress Rail’s deep industry expertise ensures a commitment to quality through innovative solutions.

Industry

Consumer goods and commercial equipment rental services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Albertville, AL, US

Year founded

1983