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Rail Car Unloader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AWCT

Rail Loader/Unloader - JNAP

Detroit, MI · On-site

$26/hr

AWCT is hiring full time Rail Loaders at our Jefferson North JNAP location in Detroit MI. This ... Operate and set buck ramps and stationery loading/unloading ramps. * Keep work areas, vans ...

AWCT

Rail Loader/Unloader - JNAP

Detroit, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

AWCT is hiring full time Rail Loaders at our Jefferson North JNAP location in Detroit MI. This ... Operate and set buck ramps and stationery loading/unloading ramps. * Keep work areas, vans ...

Savage Transload Network LLC

Transload Operator

Hammond, IN

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Railcar Loaders are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car loading and unloading services to the customer. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a ...

New

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Transload Operator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Railcar Loaders are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car loading and unloading services to the customer. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a ...

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Transload Operator

Toledo, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Railcar Loaders are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car loading and unloading services to the customer. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a ...

TeamSoft

Rail Loader

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

TBD Job Summary The Rail Worker is responsible for the safe and efficient loading and unloading of vehicles, equipment, and other freight onto and off railcars. This position plays a key role in ...

Peoplelink Staffing

Rail Loader

Lafayette, IN

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

TBD Job Summary The Rail Worker is responsible for the safe and efficient loading and unloading of vehicles, equipment, and other freight onto and off railcars. This position plays a key role in ...

New

TeamSoft

Rail Loader

Lafayette, IN · On-site

TBD Job Summary The Rail Worker is responsible for the safe and efficient loading and unloading of vehicles, equipment, and other freight onto and off railcars. This position plays a key role in ...

AWCT

Rail Loader- Part Time/Casuals

Wentzville, MO · On-site

$27/hr

AWCT is hiring part-time Rail Loader/Unloader Casuals for our Wentzville VDC location. Please apply fast for this position! Summary This position is to prepare railcars for loading and offloading ...

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Transload Operator

Blaine, WA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Transload Operator are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car loading and unloading services to the customer. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a ...

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Rail Car Unloader information

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How much do rail car unloader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail car unloader in the United States is $15.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Rail car unloaders typically do not earn $4,000 per week; such high weekly pay is uncommon in this role. Jobs that can pay $4,000 weekly without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial truck drivers, sales managers, or certain construction supervisors, especially with experience and overtime. These positions may require specialized skills, certifications, or a strong work history but not necessarily a college degree.

What are some common safety challenges faced by Rail Car Unloaders, and how are they addressed on the job?

Rail Car Unloaders often work in environments with heavy machinery, moving railcars, and hazardous materials, which can present significant safety challenges. To address these, employers typically provide thorough safety training, enforce the use of personal protective equipment, and implement strict procedures for lockout/tagout and spill response. Team communication and adherence to established protocols are crucial to minimizing risks. Regular safety meetings and ongoing refresher courses help ensure that all team members remain vigilant and prepared for potential hazards.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically management positions such as railroad executives, operations managers, and safety directors, who oversee large-scale operations and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry knowledge, and they can earn six-figure salaries. Skilled technical roles like locomotive engineers and signal maintainers also earn competitive wages, but executive positions generally top the pay scale.

What are rail car unloaders?

Rail car unloaders are workers responsible for safely removing materials or goods from rail cars at warehouses, industrial plants, or distribution centers. They use specialized equipment such as conveyors, forklifts, or pneumatic systems to handle bulk materials, liquids, or packaged goods. Rail car unloaders must follow safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure the efficient unloading and inspection of cargo. Their role is vital in keeping supply chains moving smoothly and ensuring that goods are delivered on time.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired as a rail car unloader can be competitive, but many positions are available for entry-level workers. Employers often look for physical stamina, attention to safety procedures, and the ability to work in a team environment. Relevant certifications or training may improve chances of employment, but prior experience is not always required.

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

To thrive as a Rail Car Unloader, you need physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rail car unloading equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and sometimes forklift certification are typically necessary. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and reliability help ensure smooth coordination and safe operations. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and productivity in a physically demanding and safety-sensitive environment.

What is the difference between Rail Car Unloader vs Conveyor Belt Operator?

AspectRail Car UnloaderConveyor Belt Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, industrial sitesFactories, warehouses
Industry UsageRail transport, freight handlingManufacturing, distribution

The Rail Car Unloader and Conveyor Belt Operator both require safety certifications and work in industrial environments. The main difference lies in their specific roles: the Rail Car Unloader handles unloading goods from rail cars in freight yards, while the Conveyor Belt Operator manages conveyor systems in manufacturing or warehouse settings. Both roles are essential in logistics and material handling industries, but they focus on different equipment and work environments.

What is a railcar unloader?

A rail car unloader is a worker responsible for removing cargo from railcars, often using equipment like conveyors, hoists, or pneumatic systems. The role requires safety awareness, physical strength, and knowledge of handling bulk materials in a warehouse or industrial setting.
What cities are hiring for Rail Car Unloader jobs? Cities with the most Rail Car Unloader job openings:
What states have the most Rail Car Unloader jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Car Unloader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rail Car Unloader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Car Unloader jobs are:
Rail Car Unloader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Car Unloader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,139 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Rail Loader/Unloader - JNAP

AWCT

Detroit, MI • On-site

$26/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

AWCT is hiring full time Rail Loaders at our Jefferson North JNAP location in Detroit MI. This position comes with weekly pay, an amazing benefits program and a family atmosphere. If you are interested and qualified, please apply quickly for fast consideration!
AWCT is family-owned and operated. Our vision: We are the premier provider of finished vehicle logistics in the United States. Our mission: We take pride in delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality service for every customer vehicle. Our values: We respect each person's preferences and perspectives.
Summary
This position is to prepare railcars for loading and offloading, disengaging vehicles from railcars, driving vehicles off railcars, and preparing railcars for transportation according to manufacturer manuals and American Association of Railroad standards. This is a general overview of the requirements of the position, not an all-inclusive list of activities. This job description is continuously evolving and may change without notice. Safely driving vehicles onto or off railcars wearing PPE, securing vehicles to railcars according to manufacturer and American Association of Railroad standards.
Essential Duties and Tasks
  • Drive vehicles to and from specified locations in the yard and on/off rail cars.
  • Make certain all vehicles are parked in proper locations and bayed correctly.
  • Understand and apply all AWCT, customer, AAR, safety, and quality standards/policies.
  • Follow all safety guidelines to guarantee the job is done in a safe manner.
  • Identify vehicles and insert documentation or scan VINs as required.
  • Inform Managers of any issues that could affect production, safety, or quality standards.
  • Log/scan processed work into computer programs or tracking systems as required.
  • Read and match VIN numbers (including VIN plate) quickly and accurately to ensure movement of proper vehicles.
  • Read, compare, and understand work orders, repair orders, purchase orders, purge sheets, and other documents to complete work.
  • Visually verify and inspect vehicles for damage prior to breaking chocks off any vehicle before starting to unload; notify supervisor of the damage immediately.
  • Report missed bayed unit to supervisor or manager immediately.
  • Open or close railcar doors.
  • Raise and lower railcar decks.
  • Lift, set and pin bridge plates and uninstall bridge plates as required.
  • Responsible for junction spacing to ARR standards using proper equipment.
  • Secure/unsecure customer vehicles to railcars using approved chocks and tie-downs as required; store any additional chocks and tie-downs left on the deck(s).
  • Operate and set buck ramps and stationery loading/unloading ramps.
  • Keep work areas, vans, appropriate work attire, etc. clean and neat
  • Notify supervision of any workplace hazards or unsafe conditions immediately upon discovery.
  • Attend monthly safety meetings.
  • Report accidents and injuries immediately and follow up with the completion of the appropriate forms.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements
  • Ability to adhere to strict production, safety, and quality standards without variance
  • Ability to climb ladders and work at a height approximately 15-20 feet above the ground
  • Ability to lift 55 pounds overhead frequently
  • Ability to push, pull or carry up to 75 pounds
  • Ability to work outdoors, 100% of the time, in all weather conditions (often extreme) for extended periods
  • Ability to stand, walk and work in confined spaces for extended periods of time for up to a 10-12-hour shift (sometimes split shift).
  • Ability to get in and out of vehicle driver's door with minimal door opening clearance
  • Ability to use company-provided technological equipment to assist in job duties
  • Ability to function effectively under pressure as crews work together on production standards to complete work safely and timely without incident
  • Ability to verbally communicate with others effectively; work as a team with good interpersonal skills
  • Ability to judge distances
  • Must have the ability to maintain a good sense of balance
  • Ability to climb up and down railcar ladders at a 90-degree angle multiple times per shift while maintaining 3 points of contact for safety.
  • Ability to pass Driver's Safety Test, Rail Safety Test and Buck Ramp quiz with 80% or higher
  • Ability to read and match numbers quickly and accurately
  • Ability to differentiate between colors for vehicle identification
  • Ability to read and understand location cards and work orders
  • Ability to read, understand and interpret SDS manuals
  • Ability to write, read, and comprehend basic English
  • Ability to drive standard and automatic automobiles
  • Ability to follow directions, both written and verbal
  • Knowledge of the use of hand tools (i.e., wrenches, screw drivers, ratchets, etc.)
  • Must have a valid driver's license; good driving record with the ability to maintain the same
  • Must pass AWCT pre-placement background clearances including pre-employment drug screening, HPE/POET physical demand testing
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain e-RAILSAFE/e-Verifile clearances as required by the AWCT customer
  • High School Diploma and/or GED
  • Regular attendance in all weather conditions
  • Good visual and auditory ability
  • Maintain positive behaviors and conduct in the workplace while acting and communicating with others, customers, vendors, co-workers, and management.

Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this position.
Equal Employment Opportunity
AWCT is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected class with respect to employment opportunities.

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