1

Rail Car Loader Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

The Railcar Loader is responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car loading and unloading of various products and commodities. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem ...

Pembina Pipeline Corporation's Redwater Complex is seeking a safety-focused, motivated, and reliable Rail Loader to join our Rail Logistics team. Reporting to the Shift Lead within Liquids ...

Rail Car Loader information

See Alberta salary details

$9

$19

$30

How much do rail car loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail car loader in Alberta is $20.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a rail car loader do?

As a rail car loader, you load and unload a train shipment using material moving equipment. Shipments can be chemical or bulk solids, like coal and grain, or commercial products. Responsibilities include the inspection of shipping tanks or railcars before, during, and after loading, cleaning as needed. You ensure loading operations run smoothly by utilizing adjustable loading ramps, securing vehicles using chocks, and managing bridge plates at railcar junctions, all while keeping safety standards in mind. Other duties include maintaining a record of all loading activities and ensuring products meet quality standards. Coordination with the maintenance crew is also required to complete routine maintenance and repairs quickly.

What does a rail car loader do?

A Rail Car Loader is responsible for safely loading and unloading materials, such as bulk goods or liquids, into and out of rail cars. They ensure that cargo is evenly distributed, properly secured, and meets safety regulations to prevent accidents during transport. Rail Car Loaders also inspect equipment, operate loading machinery, and maintain accurate documentation of shipments. Their work is essential for efficient and safe freight transportation by rail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail car loader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Car Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with loading equipment, safety protocols, and material handling systems is typically required, and OSHA safety certification is often preferred. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help ensure efficient and safe operations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safety standards, minimizing errors, and meeting productivity goals in a demanding work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by rail car loaders, and how can they be addressed?

Rail Car Loaders often encounter challenges such as working outdoors in varying weather conditions, handling heavy or bulky materials, and ensuring precise loading to meet safety regulations. Staying attentive to safety protocols and using proper lifting techniques can help prevent injuries. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is also vital to coordinate loading schedules and resolve any issues quickly. Investing time in ongoing safety training and familiarizing oneself with equipment can make the job safer and more efficient.

What is the difference between Rail Car Loader vs Material Handler?

AspectRail Car LoaderMaterial Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, loading docks, industrial sitesWarehouses, construction sites, industrial facilities
Industry UsageRail transportation, freight companiesLogistics, manufacturing, shipping
Job FocusLoading/unloading rail cars, safety complianceHandling materials, moving goods

Rail Car Loaders and Material Handlers share similar certifications and safety requirements, often working in industrial environments. However, Rail Car Loaders specialize in loading and unloading rail cars within the rail transportation industry, while Material Handlers focus on moving and managing materials across various sectors. Both roles are essential for efficient logistics and freight operations.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Car Loader jobs in AB?

For Rail Car Loader jobs in AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Rail Car Loader job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 53% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,590 per year, or $20 per hour.

Railcar Loader

Fort Saskatchewan, AB

Cando Rail & Terminals LP
501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Railcar Loader is responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car loading and unloading of various products and commodities. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a company that promotes a strong safety culture, this opportunity is for you! 

Cando provides specialized rail operating services. We provide a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, and more. With over 50 operations, we are the 3 largest locomotive fleet in Canada and growing!

Cando Advantages

  • Work Life Balance with Fixed Schedules
  • Cando’s Technical and Leadership Training Programs
  • Award Winning Safety Culture
  • Employee Ownership Program
  • Group Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, and Long-Term Disability Insurances
  • Flexible Health & Dental Benefits
  • Canada’s Best Managed Company for 9 years!

Job Description

The Railcar Loader is responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car loading and unloading of various products and commodities. Working in a fast-paced, customer-oriented environment, the incumbents must work well in teams to maximize efficiency and safety, while demonstrating a strong initiative and organizational skills

 Roles & Responsibilities

When working as a Railcar Loader, the incumbent is responsible to:

  • Operate equipment in a safe and efficient manner to ensure the proper loading of customer products.
  • Provide protection of train, track, and equipment
  • Perform plant and equipment inspections and tests including completing daily inspection and testing of the equipment safety devices
  • Ensure railcars are properly equipped for the loading/unloading of customers’ commodities, including transportation of dangerous goods
  • Communicate with the switching crews and operations for the safe and efficient transfer of the customers product

All employees are responsible to perform any of the duties identified for Railcar Loader at any time once trained and qualified in the position. Other responsibilities include:

  • Keeping the interior of the equipment and work environment safe, clean, and tidy
  • Promptly reporting all safety, equipment, and track problems to the Team Lead and/or Manager
  • Completing daily reports, daily logs, and other reports deemed necessary
  • Exerting “best effort” to protect human life, human safety and company property
  • Actively participating with the team and providing excellent customer service while promoting a superior company image
  • Participating in training or company initiatives as required 

 Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities

  • Excellent teamwork skills; strong customer service skills
  • Ability to read and write general documentation including safety briefings, policy and
    procedure manuals, and switching lists
  • Physically fit including the ability to pull self up and down from a railcar on a
    continuous basis, able to lift and twist air hoses, able to secure rail car brakes, derails, and switches
  • Knowledge with technology and computer systems with a willingness to use Excel
    and Outlook daily
  • Strong problem solving and decision-making abilities
  • Ability to obtain CROR certification and maintain clear drug & alcohol clearance
    throughout their employment
  • Be willing and able to work in all weather conditions

Education & Experience

  • Experienced Railcar Loading is an asset
  • Experience working in heavy construction, industrial or rail environment
  • Experience operating with safety management systems

Note: This description is not intended to limit the assignment of work or be construed as a complete list of the many duties to be performed by the incumbent. The qualifications are provided so interested candidates understand of the level of expertise required in this position