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Rail Controller Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Rail Operations Planner

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

$58K - $78K/yr

Experience in CPG, food manufacturing, or temperature-controlled supply chains is preferred ... The Rail Operations Planner is part of McCain's North American Transportation or Supply Chain team ...

RailPros

Railroad Safety Flagger Amtrak

Irving, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... of On Track Safety in controlled and non-controlled track areas. Essential Duties ...

RailPros

Railroad Safety Flagger Amtrak

Irving, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... of On Track Safety in controlled and non-controlled track areas. Essential Duties ...

RailPros

Railroad Safety Flagger NS North

Irving, IL · On-site

$35/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... of On Track Safety in controlled and non-controlled track areas. Essential Duties ...

RailPros

Railroad Safety Flagger NS North

Irving, IL · On-site

$35/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... of On Track Safety in controlled and non-controlled track areas. Essential Duties ...

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All JobsRail Controller JobsRail Controller Jobs in Illinois

Rail Controller information

See Illinois salary details

$53.3K

$115.8K

$170.1K

How much do rail controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail controller in Illinois is $115,795.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail controller?

A Rail Controller is responsible for overseeing and managing the movement of trains to ensure safe and efficient rail operations. They monitor rail traffic, communicate with train drivers and station staff, and respond to emergencies or delays. Rail Controllers use computerized systems to coordinate schedules, prevent collisions, and minimize disruptions. Strong decision-making, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail controller?

To thrive as a Rail Controller, you need a strong understanding of rail operations, safety protocols, and logistical coordination, typically acquired through relevant vocational training or equivalent experience. Familiarity with railway signaling systems, control center software, and real-time tracking tools is crucial. Outstanding attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient train movements and quick decision-making in critical situations, which are essential for maintaining service reliability and passenger safety.

What are the typical challenges a rail controller faces on the job?

Rail Controllers often handle complex situations involving unexpected delays, schedule changes, or technical issues, which require rapid problem-solving and effective communication with train crews and maintenance teams. Working in a high-pressure control center environment, they must maintain constant vigilance to prevent safety incidents and manage multiple trains simultaneously. While the role can be demanding, it is also highly rewarding for those who enjoy fast-paced decision-making and being at the center of critical rail operations. Many organizations provide comprehensive training and opportunities for advancement into senior controller or operations management positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Controller jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Rail Controller jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Controller jobs in Illinois?

For Rail Controller jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Controller jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Controller jobs in Illinois are:

Rail Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Controller job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,795 per year, or $55.7 per hour.

Rail Traffic Controller

Canadian National Railway Company

Homewood, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

135th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

At CN, everyday brings new and exciting challenges. You can expect an interesting environment where you're part of making sure our business is running optimally and safely-helping keep the economy on track. We provide the kind of paid training and opportunities that long-term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close-knit, safety-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!

Job Summary

The Rail Traffic Controller (RTC) is a Safety Critical Position that is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trains and engines. Furthermore, the position oversees the protection of on-track equipment and personnel as required on their assigned territory.

Major Responsibilities

       Proficient in all the United States Operating and RTC rules, regulations and procedures governing railway operations under their control

       Ensure on-track forces receive the maximum available time to perform maintenance work and inspections while avoiding delay to scheduled train movements

       Handle emergencies and other unexpected events

       Ensure that the safety of the employees and public is protected while at the same time limiting the impact to railway operations

       Maintain concise records and enter reports via various software applications

Working Conditions

       Ability and willingness to work any shift (day, evening, night), weekends and holidays to cover 24/7 operations

       Ability to work while handling pressure in a high-stress environment

       Ability to make quick decisions and react effectively to emergencies with minimal supervision

       Ability to work in an open-concept environment

Requirements

       High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED)

       Excellent computer skills

       Strong mathematics skills

       Ability to plan, organize and modify existing plans

       Strong communication skills

       Unwavering commitment to rule compliance and safety

       Experience as an Air Traffic Controller*

*Any experience/education/skills/knowledge for these above would be considered as an asset

Training

Successful candidates will undergo a lengthy training program (approximately 3 to 5 months) involving classroom and practical instruction. Candidates will be subject to a probationary period of 180 shifts after seniority is established. 

 Union

The Rail Traffic Controller is a unionized position. Wages, initiation fees and monthly dues are required as outlined in the collective bargaining agreement.


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