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Rail Switch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amrize

Rail Brakeman

Harpers Ferry, WV · On-site

Coordinate with locomotive operators, plant personnel, and supervisors using radios and hand signals to safely direct rail movements. * Operate track switches, hand brakes, and rail equipment to ...

Amrize

Rail Brakeman

Harpers Ferry, WV · On-site

Coordinate with locomotive operators, plant personnel, and supervisors using radios and hand signals to safely direct rail movements. * Operate track switches, hand brakes, and rail equipment to ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Rail Operator

Upper Sandusky, OH · On-site

Prepare railcars for switching with the rail road. * Ensures compliance with Company safety rules ... Three years' experience in truck loading and unloading, rail tank, car loading, and/or operating a ...

Nutrien

Inspector, Rail Car

White Springs, FL · On-site

Be familiar with and capable of operating the rail switches and related equipment to safely operate the rail switch yard. * Assist Traffic department with month end closing. * Have knowledge and the ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Rail Operator

Upper Sandusky, OH · On-site

Prepare railcars for switching with the rail road. * Ensures compliance with Company safety rules ... Three years' experience in truck loading and unloading, rail tank, car loading, and/or operating a ...

Marmon

Operator/Helper

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Operator/Helper

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Cando Rail & Terminals

Yard Master

Gregory, TX · On-site

... railways by leveraging Cando's operating capabilities and network of owned multi-purpose rail terminals. The company provides a wide range of rail services including industrial switching, material ...

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Yard Master

Gregory, TX · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

... railways by leveraging Cando's operating capabilities and network of owned multi-purpose rail terminals. The company provides a wide range of rail services including industrial switching, material ...

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Yard Master

Gregory, TX · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

... railways by leveraging Cando's operating capabilities and network of owned multi-purpose rail terminals. The company provides a wide range of rail services including industrial switching, material ...

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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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RAIL Switch Operator jobs near you
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.

Chemical Plant Worker

PSC Group, Human Resources

Bay City, TX • On-site

$20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

PSC Group rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 118 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

244th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

Loader, Switchman, Washrack Technicians
Looking to join a team-focused company that values safety and quality training? PSC Group is hiring full-time, entry-level Chemical Plant Loaders, Rail Switching Operators, and Wash Rack Technicians. Build a stable, long-term career in an industrial chemical plant with a company that puts employees first. Join the PSC family today!
Job Duties & Responsibilities:
Loader
• Cleans and visually inspects the railcar before transfer to ensure that it is mechanically sound
• Connects or disconnects loading arm hose for transfer of product
• Inspects for any leaks, weighs railcars and completes required paperwork
Rail Switching
• Examines track list to plan railcars to be spotted, separated, loaded, and/or built for shipment
• May operate trackmobile or locomotive to safely move railcars in the plant
• Communicates with rail team members, leadership, and customer contacts
Wash Rack Technician
• Opens and inspects all railcar hatches for excessive product
• Installs and lowers wash heads with air hoist, centers heads with opening in hopper car
• Inspects and removes debris from railcars and completes documentation
• Coordinates with rail switch crew to remove cleaned cars and spot dirty for washing
• Completes any other duties that may be assigned to complete the job
Job Qualifications:
• Experience is a plus but not required, and paid on-the-job training is available
• May require a valid Driver's License and / or a valid TWIC card, depending on work location
• 18 years or older and legally able to work in the U.S.
• Pass a drug screen, physical, and background check
• Wear all required PPE without restriction and pass any required medical exams
• Speak, write, read fluent English
• Regular on-site attendance and punctuality is required
• Previous military experience and proven ability to follow procedures is a plus
Work Schedule:
12 Hour Rotating Shift (Days/Nights/Weekends/Holidays)
Why join the PSC team?
  • Since 1952, PSC Group has had a strong reputation for quality service, safety, environmental protection, and taking care of our employees.
  • We are a leader in product handling and site logistics for refineries, chemical producers, and marine transportation providers.
  • The work we do makes a huge impact in our nation's economy. Check out our videos at PSC Group - Career Videos to learn more.
  • Check out our online newsletter "The Connection" which contains articles about our work groups, recognition events, and achievements of our employees and their family members at PSC Group - Newsletter.
  • Our Core Values serve as the foundation for all we do-how we conduct our business, serve our customers, and treat members of our PSC family. Learn more at PSC Group - Core Values.

Employee Benefits:
  • Medical insurance options with the company paying a large portion of the premiums, including affordable dental and vision plans for employees and their families
  • Company-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance
  • Matching 401(k) plan to help employees save money for retirement
  • Vacation, sick leave, and holiday benefits (varies by work group)
  • Incentives, discounts, and bonuses
  • Industry-leading training and development programs

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The above job description does not reflect all essential job functions or physical requirements.
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
PSC Group, formerly known as Petroleum Service Corporation, is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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