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Rail Driver Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

NO CDL REQUIRED!! Railcrew Xpress is currently hiring Passenger Mini-Van Drivers! To Apply: You ... As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their ...

NO CDL REQUIRED!! Railcrew Xpress is currently hiring Passenger Mini-Van Drivers! To Apply: You ... As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their ...

NO CDL REQUIRED!! Railcrew Xpress is currently hiring Passenger Mini-Van Drivers! To Apply: You ... As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their ...

NO CDL REQUIRED!! Railcrew Xpress is currently hiring Passenger Mini-Van Drivers! To Apply: You ... As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their ...

$32.31/hr

Monitors truck driver unloading of products and partners with truck drivers to ensure the safe loading and unloading of product in the facility. * Manages rail yard Inventory through the movement and ...

New

NO CDL REQUIRED!! Railcrew Xpress is currently hiring Passenger Mini-Van Drivers! To Apply: You ... As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their ...

Showing results 41-60

Rail Driver information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$14

$18

How much do rail driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail driver in Iowa is $14.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail driver?

Rail drivers, also known as train drivers or locomotive engineers, are professionals responsible for operating trains that carry passengers or freight. They control the speed, handling, and safety of trains, ensuring they follow schedules and comply with all safety regulations. Rail drivers must remain alert to signals, communicate with dispatchers, and respond appropriately to any emergencies or unexpected situations. Their role is critical in maintaining the efficiency and safety of rail transportation systems.

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

To thrive as a Rail Driver, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, safety procedures, and typically a high school diploma along with completion of operator training and certification. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and locomotive operation is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient train operations and the well-being of passengers, crew, and cargo.

How do you become a rail driver?

To become a rail driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the railway company. They must obtain a train driver certification or license, which involves passing written exams, practical assessments, and medical tests, and often gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions in rail operations.

What is the difference between Rail Driver vs Train Conductor?

AspectRail DriverTrain Conductor
Required CredentialsDriver's license, train operation certificationPassenger service certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentLocomotive cab, train yardPassenger cars, station platforms
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, freight/passenger trainsPassenger rail services, commuter trains
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Rail Driver and a Train Conductor lies in their roles and responsibilities. Rail Drivers operate the train, focusing on driving and safety, requiring specific certifications and licenses. Train Conductors primarily handle passenger services, ticketing, and safety procedures. Both roles are essential in the rail industry but serve different functions within train operations.

What are some common challenges faced by rail drivers during their shifts, and how can they be managed?

Rail drivers often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to schedules, managing fatigue during long or irregular shifts, and responding to unexpected events like signal failures or track obstructions. Effective time management, clear communication with dispatchers and other crew members, and staying updated with safety protocols help mitigate these challenges. Many rail operators also provide ongoing training and support to ensure drivers can handle stressful situations calmly and efficiently, contributing to a safer and smoother operation.

How much can you get paid to drive a train?

Rail drivers, also known as train operators, typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of train operated. Some positions with seniority or in certain regions can pay higher, and additional benefits may be included in compensation packages.

How to become a rail driver?

To become a rail driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the railway company. They must obtain relevant certifications, such as a locomotive engineer license, and pass medical and background checks. Experience operating trains and knowledge of safety protocols are also essential for this role.
Infographic showing various Rail Driver job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,427 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Engineer/Conductor KJRY

Patriot Rail Company

Keokuk, IA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Patriot Rail rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The primary function of the Conductor is to maintain responsibility over the physical operation and safety of the locomotive. All train crew employees are responsible for strict adherence to safety guidelines and for completing their duties with integrity and professionalism.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Conductor:

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA);

To always review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew;

To always inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures;

To accurately receive and transmit information by radio and telephone;

To accurately read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists;

To safely assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses;

To safely and professionally work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars;

To always safely maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety;

To comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems;

To safely, quickly, and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions;

To accurately and quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.);

Locomotive Engineer:

To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the locomotive;

To safely perform manipulation of throttle and brake controls as well as interpreting gauges and controls;

To safely manipulate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab;

To safely and efficiently apply and release handbrakes;

To safely ascend and descend steps and ladders to get on and off the equipment;

To takes directions from conductors and brakemen;

To safely line switches;

To safely perform maintenance services to the locomotive (brake shoes, oil, sand and fuel);

To always comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train.;

To always comply with all federal regulations regarding the operation of the train air brakes; and

To perform any additional duties as assigned by operations and/or management.

ESSENTIAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

18 years of age or older;

Valid Driver's License;

2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry experience strongly preferred;

Must pass all required assessments;

Must pass a background screening;

Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol;

No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years;

Knowledge of and skills in using hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, etc. and skills in using power tools and hydraulic equipment, including portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills;

Prefer experience reading and comprehending safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals;

Must be able to meet physical requirements of the position;

Position requires flexible work schedule and the need to work overtime on occasion; and

Must report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Verbal Comprehension - Understands oral and written communications (both general and technical).

Communication Skills - Provides clear instructions/directions. Listens and adheres to operations and management guidance.

Reasoning Skills - Demonstrates high level of skill to effectively use his/her problem solving and troubleshooting skills.

Time Management - Values and manages time effectively. Effectively prioritizes, manages, and organizes workload and broad range of activities.

Excellent Interpersonal Skills - Ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse personalities.

Exceptional Organizational Skills - Demonstrates high level of organization.

Resourcefulness - Ability to find innovate ways to overcome obstacles, problems, and unforeseen/challenging situations.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

Locomotive Engineers must meet and maintain the following physical requirements:

Must meet and maintain color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations; and

Must meet and maintain all hearing requirements as described in the FRA Regulations.

The physical nature of the work will vary from day to day based on operational needs; however, the job requires that the incumbent be able to perform the following non-exhaustive list: climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, typing, grasping, handling, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion. Employees in this position may work in cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward places. Employees will walk long distances over uneven terrain. Heavy work requires occasional lifting, carrying, frequent pushing and pulling of up to or greater than 80 lbs. A wide range of motion is required for throwing ground and waist-level switches. Outdoor position requiring a tolerance to extreme heat, cold and wet conditions. Employees in this position must be able to work outside in all weather conditions. Perform activities in the proximity of moving equipment. Good auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection, accommodation, field of vision and depth perception to successfully perform duties and for general safety. Color vision is necessary for perceiving signals. Employees must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to hearing protection, safety-toe boots, and safety glasses. Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.

This is a Safety Sensitive Position

SAFETY

Safety is the cornerstone value in our Company. Our employees are expected to live our values on the job in how we work, how we act, and how we create value. Safety is a personal responsibility. We are professionals and our activities must reflect that professionalism. Each team member must demonstrate safety advocacy every day - regardless of their role in the Company. Compliance with safety and operating rules is required and essential to our own safety and that of others.


Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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