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Rail Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cranemasters

Excavator/Operator - CDL A

Minneapolis, MN

$23.50 - $31/hr

... restoring and maintaining railroad operations safely and efficiently. This is a physically ... excavators, backhoes, etc.) if qualified Use hand tools, hydraulic tools, and cutting/welding ...

Cranemasters

Excavator/Operator - CDL A

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$23.50 - $31/hr

... L Drivers/Operators/Laborers to transport equipment and support field operations including ... restoring and maintaining railroad operations safely and efficiently. This is a physically ...

Cranemasters

Excavator/Operator - CDL A

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$23.50 - $31/hr

... L Drivers/Operators/Laborers to transport equipment and support field operations including ... restoring and maintaining railroad operations safely and efficiently. This is a physically ...

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Rail Excavator Operator information

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$13

$26

$41

How much do rail excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail excavator operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Rail Excavator Operator position, and why are they important?

A Rail Excavator Operator should possess strong mechanical aptitude, experience with heavy equipment operation, and a valid operator’s license or certification, often specific to rail-based environments. Familiarity with specialized rail excavators, track safety protocols, and related control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and solid communication skills are important soft skills that enhance performance. These competencies ensure safe, efficient excavation work on or near railway tracks, minimizing disruptions and upholding safety standards.

What are the typical work environments and schedules for a Rail Excavator Operator?

Rail Excavator Operators often work outdoors along railway lines, in diverse weather conditions, and may be required to travel to various job sites depending on project needs. Shifts can vary, including nights, weekends, and overtime, especially during urgent rail maintenance or construction projects. Operators usually work as part of a coordinated team with other rail professionals, such as track laborers and site supervisors, ensuring projects run smoothly and safely. The environment is safety-focused, and following strict protocols is essential at all times. This dynamic and collaborative atmosphere provides valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to advance to higher-level equipment or supervisory roles.

What is a Rail Excavator Operator job?

A Rail Excavator Operator operates specialized excavators designed for work on rail tracks. They perform tasks such as digging, grading, lifting, and material handling while ensuring safety and precision in a rail environment. Operators must be skilled in maneuvering equipment on and around tracks, often in challenging conditions. They work on railway construction, maintenance, and repair projects. Proper certification and adherence to railway safety regulations are essential for this role.

More about Rail Excavator Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Excavator Operator jobs? The most popular types of Rail Excavator Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Rail Excavator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Excavator Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rail Excavator Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Excavator Operator jobs are:
Rail Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Railroad Hi-Rail Excavator Operator- CDL A

Succession Planning for Railroads Investing in the Next Generation LLC

Dallas, GA • Remote

$23 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and experienced CDL A Hi-Rail Excavator Operator to join our team. The successful candidate will operate heavy machinery, including excavators, to perform railroad track construction tasks such as digging, grading, trenching, and earthmoving. The role also requires driving and transporting equipment to job sites, ensuring that all equipment is maintained in top working condition.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate an excavator and heavy equipment to safely and efficiently complete earth-moving tasks including digging, grading, trenching, and site preparation.
  • Transport and haul construction materials, equipment, and machinery using a Class A CDL vehicle.
  • Maintain and inspect machinery before, during, and after use to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • Follow safety protocols and regulations while operating equipment and handling materials.
  • Collaborate with the construction team to coordinate site activities and ensure work is completed according to plans and specifications.
  • Assist with other construction-related tasks as needed, including site clean-up, material handling, and other equipment operation.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on equipment, reporting any mechanical issues to the supervisor.
  • Maintain accurate records of equipment usage, hours worked, and job site activities.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience in railroad construction.
  • Certification in excavation and heavy equipment operation.
Requirements
  • Valid CDL Class A driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Proven experience operating excavators, backhoes, and other heavy machinery.
  • Ability to safely operate and maintain heavy equipment in a variety of conditions.
  • Strong knowledge of construction safety protocols and regulations.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and construction plans.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Physical ability to work in outdoor, often strenuous conditions.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Per diem
Truck Allowance - if needed
Equal Employment Opportunity 
We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.