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Rail Driver Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Rail Loader- Marysville

Marysville, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Rail Loader- Marysville Auto Warehousing (AWC) has been family-owned and operated for more than 50 ... Must have and maintain a valid State Driver's license * Must have a good sense of balance and have ...

New

Rail Loader- Marysville

Marysville, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

We are hiring 5 Full Time Rail Loaders for our Marysville location. This position will be primarily ... Must have and maintain a valid State Driver's license * Must have a good sense of balance and have ...

New

HDR Rail Engineers thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team members are encouraged to ... Must have a valid Driver's License. #LI-EH1 Qualifications Required Qualifications * Bachelor ...

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Rail Driver information

See Ohio salary details

$5

$14

$18

How much do rail driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail driver in Ohio is $14.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.16 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.

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.

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.

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 relevant certifications, such as a locomotive engineer license, and pass medical and background checks. Experience operating trains or related machinery is often required before starting as a rail driver.

How much do rail drivers get paid?

Rail drivers, also known as train operators, typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Experienced drivers with certifications and seniority can earn higher wages, and some may receive additional benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.

How much does a rail driver make?

A rail driver, also known as a train operator, typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They require specialized training and certification to operate trains safely and efficiently.

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 Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,797 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Rail Loader- Marysville

Auto Warehousing Company

Marysville, OH • On-site

$20.89 - $21.89/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Auto Warehousing Company rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Auto Warehousing (AWC) has been family-owned and operated for more than 50 years and is North America's leader in finished vehicle logistics. Our mission is to service customer vehicles safely, efficiently, with quality and pride. Our Associates are the reason for our success, and developing their talent remains critical to our future.AWC offers a generous benefits package supporting both physical and mental well-being. Benefits include health insurance associates, spouses, and children; basic life and AD&D insurance; disability; EAP; auto discounts; a 401(k) plan with company contribution; and several voluntary benefits. Marysville associates have paid holidays, vacation and sick accruals, and bereavement leave.We are hiring 5 Full Time Rail Loaders for our Marysville location. This position will be primarily days Monday - Saturday 6a to when the loads are done (usually 8-10 hours). This is very physical work and this is 100% outdoors in all weather. For quick consideration- apply today!Summary of PositionThis position prepares railcars for loading, drives vehicles onto proper railcars, secures vehicles to railcars according to manufacturer and American Association of Railroad standards, and prepares railcars for transportation at the Marysville Honda facility. Essential Functions, Duties and TasksDrive vehicles onto rail carsSecure vehicles on the rail cars using chocks or chainsAble to react to change productively and handle other essential tasks as assignedInspect vehicles for damageReport damage to lead, supervisor, or managerTrain new employees and temporary workersMaintain a positive behavior and conduct in the workplace while acting and communicating with other customers, vendors, co-workers, and managementAble to react to change productivelyAny duties as assignedGood and regular attendanceAbility to work in a variety of situations Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesAbility to adhere to strict quality standards without varianceAbility to read and interpret SDS manualsHave knowledge of hand tools (i.e., wrenches, screwdrivers, ratchets, etc.) Education, Experience, and Minimum RequirementsMust be able to read, write and communicate in EnglishMust have a high school diploma or equivalentMust have and maintain a valid State Driver's licenseMust have a good sense of balance and have the ability to maintain 3 points of contactAbility to drive both automatic and manual transmission vehiclesAbility to work both indoors and outdoors in extreme weather conditionsAbility to pass the AWC Safe Driving and Rail Safety tests with a 80% or higher accuracyMust be able to working in tight spaces when loading vehiclesMust be able to work at heights approximately 15 feet above the ground Preferred Requirements:High school diploma or equivalentMust have and maintain a valid State Driver's licenseMaintain a good driving recordAbility to drive both manual automatic transmission vehiclesAbility to work at a height approximately 15 feet above the groundAbility to stand, walk, and work outdoors in all weather conditions Auto Warehousing Company, including its subsidiaries, 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 or disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act) with respect to employment opportunities
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