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Rail Switch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This role supports the timely and ...

Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This role supports the timely and ...

The Rail Operator oversees all functions of the rail operations and assists with loading and ... This position is responsible for safely switching railcars in the yard, safe train movement, and ...

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

This position is responsible for safely and efficiently operating and maintaining rail equipment, track, and switches. The safe transfer of crude oil and petroleum products to and from tanker truck ...

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

This position is responsible for safely and efficiently operating and maintaining rail equipment, track, and switches. The safe transfer of crude oil and petroleum products to and from tanker truck ...

Food Service Worker-1

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$20.86 - $31.73/hr

Join a team that shares your calling At MultiCare, you're more than just a job title - you're part of a team built on trust that cares for each other, our patients and our communities. Belonging here ...

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RAIL Switch Operator information

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$5

$19

$26

How much do rail switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail switch operator in the United States is $19.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail switch operator?

A Rail Switch Operator is responsible for controlling track switches to direct trains onto the correct tracks. They communicate with train crews and dispatchers to ensure safe and efficient rail traffic movement. Their duties may also include coupling and uncoupling railcars, inspecting track conditions, and operating signals. This role requires attention to detail, safety awareness, and the ability to work in various weather conditions. It is an essential position in the railway industry to prevent collisions and keep trains running on schedule.

What are the typical work shifts and environments like for rail switch operators?

Rail Switch Operators often work in outdoor rail yards or along rail lines and are required to manage switches and signals in varying weather conditions. Shifts can include nights, weekends, and holidays, as trains operate around the clock, so flexibility is important. Operators may work independently or as part of a small team, coordinating closely with locomotive engineers and dispatchers. While the role can be physically demanding and requires vigilance, it offers opportunities to learn more about railway operations and pursue advancement into supervisory or technical positions with experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the rail switch operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Switch Operator, you need a solid understanding of railway systems, attention to detail, and good physical coordination, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with track-switching mechanisms, signaling systems, and sometimes safety certifications from rail authorities are typically required. Strong communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set exceptional candidates apart. These abilities are crucial to ensuring safe and efficient train routing and preventing accidents in a dynamic rail environment.

How to become a rail switch operator?

To become a rail switch operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Knowledge of railway safety procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team are essential; some positions may require certification or licensing depending on the region. Physical stamina and the ability to work irregular hours are also important for this role.
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Infographic showing various Rail Switch Operator job openings in the United States 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 $40,983 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Rail Switching Technician- Blair, NE

Marmon

Blair, NE • On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Marmon Holdings rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Rail Switching Technician

Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Blair, NE to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, hands-on role critical to the safe movement, placement, and switching of railcars that support customer operations and production schedules. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being part of a safety-focused team. Railserve provides training, promotes from within, and offers opportunities for long-term career growth in rail operations.

Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This role supports the timely and accurate switching, placement, and movement of railcars while maintaining compliance with company safety procedures and customer operating requirements.

Employees work in active industrial rail yard environments around locomotives, railcars, heavy equipment, and moving machinery. Daily responsibilities include operating switches and brakes, coupling and uncoupling railcars, inspecting equipment, and communicating movement instructions with crews and site leadership.

The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Strong attendance, communication skills, and a commitment to safety are critical for success in this role.

Railserve promotes from within and provides opportunities for advancement into Crew Leader, Site Leadership, and other skilled rail operations positions.

Schedule determined by operational needs. Overtime may be required based on operational needs.

$23.00 – $26.00 per hour based on experience.

High school diploma or GED required. Reliable transportation required. Strong attendance and dependability required. Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. Ability to walk on uneven terrain and climb on rail equipment. Ability to lift, carry, and handle heavy equipment and materials. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities safely and effectively. Strong attention to detail and situational awareness. Ability to follow safety rules, operating procedures, and instructions. Ability to participate in Railserve's pre-employment screening process. Military experience is a plus.

Railserve is committed to being an Employer of Choice, offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance
  • Company-paid sickness and accident income
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Annual safety shoe reimbursement
  • Prescription safety wear
  • Holiday pay
  • Vacation
  • Marmon employee discount program

Outdoor industrial rail yard environment. Exposure to locomotives, railcars, moving machinery, noise, dust, and varying weather conditions. Moderate to heavy physical labor required. Frequent walking, climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, and lifting. Required use of personal protective equipment. Safety-sensitive position requiring strict compliance with company and customer safety procedures.

Don't worry if you don't meet every qualification. Railserve values reliability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Our tools, technology, and processes continue to evolve, and we invest in training and developing our people for long-term success.

Railserve provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. We recruit, hire, train, promote, and compensate employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.


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