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Rail Controller Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Equivalent work experience in the railroad signal industry is acceptable in lieu of educational ... Designing wayside systems, including vital logic controller (VLC) programming and wayside interface ...

Sr. Signal Engineer

Omaha, NE · On-site

$91K - $129K/yr

Equivalent work experience in the railroad signal industry is acceptable in lieu of educational ... Designing wayside systems, including vital logic controller (VLC) programming and wayside interface ...

Signal Engineer IV

Omaha, NE · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

Equivalent work experience in the railroad signal industry is acceptable in lieu of educational ... Designing wayside systems, including vital logic controller (VLC) programming and wayside interface ...

... railroad, and two of Nebraska's popular recreational facilities, Quarry Oaks Golf Club and the ... controlling corrosion. Performs all work in accordance with schedules, policies, procedures and ...

Senior Transportation Engineer/Project Manager

Omaha, NE · On-site

$94K - $123K/yr

... rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly ... Work with Business Group Manager, Project Controller and Department Manager for project reviews.

... railroad, and two of Nebraska's popular recreational facilities, Quarry Oaks Golf Club and the ... controlling corrosion. Performs all work in accordance with schedules, policies, procedures and ...

Rail Controller information

See Nebraska salary details

$52.4K

$113.9K

$167.3K

How much do rail controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail controller in Nebraska is $113,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,500.00 and $132,100.00 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 popular job titles related to Rail Controller jobs in Nebraska?

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

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

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

What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Rail Controller jobs?

Cities in Nebraska with the most Rail Controller job openings:

Infographic showing various Rail Controller job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,934 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Coop - Engineering

Lincoln, NE • On-site


Progress Rail Services Corporation
Consumer Goods and Commercial Equipment Rental Services • 5 - 10K employees

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Uninterrupted breaks


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Purpose
Provide a student pursuing an undergraduate degree or in a graduate program with practical work experience to supplement an academic field of study. Position would normally be a temporary assignment to be utilized during student's outside of classroom time. Work involves a substantial variety of administrative and technical duties with instruction from supervisor.
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world's largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in operation across more than 100 countries-powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail-they are making history every day.
Education / Training
Required:
• Has completed one of the following options:
1. The first year of an accredited Associate of Applied Science program in the field of Electronics Systems Technology, Energy Generation or Electromechanical Technology;
2. Completed 60 credit hours toward an accredited bachelor's degree in the fields of Electronic Engineering, Electronic Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology.
Key Job Elements
• Complete assignments within a department or activity which utilizes the employee's academic discipline;
• Locomotive product cost: Helping drive product cost initiatives by working with supply chain, product services, engineering, and manufacturing;
• Business reporting: Track failure modes and workforce productivity through monitoring parts utilization. Use current data tracking tools and recommend changes to increase productivity;
• Locomotive design: Exposure to the overall locomotive design process. By using the systems available, monitor present and potential locomotive failures. Recommend actions to minimize product downtime and accelerate equipment repair time;
• Attends turnover meetings with Progress Rail and class 1 railroad customer;
• Completes employee safety contacts, updates, or writes new best practices; completes quality inspections on high failure items;
• Performs additional job-related duties as assigned;
• Adaptability and flexibility to work in a dynamic environment.
• Performs additional job-related duties as assigned.
• Frequent contact with others outside the work group;
• Work is conducted in a shop environment;
• Travel as required to fulfill work assignments (will vary).
Qualifications and Experience
• Proficient in MS office (such as Excel, Word and PowerPoint);
• General knowledge of fundamental electronics passive and active components;
• Understands electrical generation and means to control an alternators output;
• Experience with automation control of industrial processes;
• Training in both digital and analog electronic circuits.
Preferred Skills
• Knowledge of network switching and routing;
• Operation of 3 phase electric motors and variable frequency drive controllers;
• Fundamental diesel engine operation of both 2 stroke and 4 stroke engines;
• An understanding of wiring and mechanical schematics.
Essential and Physical Activities Functions:
• Strength - Position requires lifting of 50lbs. Requires stamina and strength to work in tight and confined spaces while installing or repair machinery and components;
• Motion -Position requires standing the majority of the day. Frequent walking, squatting, kneeling, and climbing of steps and stairs;
• Vision/Hearing Requirements - Exposed to high levels of noise and vibration from using tools. Position is exposed to cutting torches and welding operations. The use of proper PPE is required. The Position requires the ability to read QWI and schematics and understand instructions;
• Work Environment - Position can be located inside or outside, dependent on situation. When inside, the employees are subject to temperature extremes in non-temperature-controlled environments. When outside employees are subject to all weather elements. Employees will work with oils and other lubricants;
• Emotional Demands - Expected to work and cooperate as part of team in order to meet production requirements;
• Safety - Position is safety sensitive, as it requires working in and around live tracks and operation and repair of heavy equipment. Position requires strict adherence to safety policies (i.e., blue flag) and use of all PPE.
The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required.
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.**
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Education Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
  • Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
  • Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs

*Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
**Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

Progress Rail logo

About Progress Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our team works hard to create lifelong customer relationships, supplying comprehensive rolling stock and infrastructure solutions for the global rail industry and setting the standard for excellence. We care about fostering the sustainable movement of goods and people for generations to come, and we know our customers care, too. Our strategic footprint ensures responsive, quality customer support all day, every day. We are one of the largest integrated diversified providers of rolling stock and infrastructure solutions and technologies for the global rail industry. The company provides advanced EMD® locomotives, engines, and technologies, railcars, trackwork, fasteners, signaling, rail welding and Kershaw® Maintenance-of-Way equipment, along with dedicated locomotive and freight car repair services, aftermarket parts support and recycling operations. Progress Rail’s deep industry expertise ensures a commitment to quality through innovative solutions.

Industry

Consumer goods and commercial equipment rental services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Albertville, AL, US

Year founded

1983


What Progress Rail employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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