ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rail Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Qualdoc

CDL Equipment Operator (Re-rail)

Taneytown, MD · On-site

$26/hr

CDL Equipment Operator (Re-rail) Location: Taneytown, MD Job Type: Direct Hire Rate: Starts at $26 ... Operates equipment (cranes, backhoes, grapple truck, dump truck, excavators, etc.) in ...

Foley Products

Loco Operator/Floater

Fortson, GA · On-site

... excavators, loaders, haul trucks, etc. Other duties as assigned Experience and Skills: Key Qualifications Prior experience operating locomotives, rail yard switching, or rail freight operations ...

Skillforce

Heavy Equipment Operator

Woodinville, WA · Remote

$35 - $47/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil / Environmental Excavation) Pay: $3 5 - $47 /hour Location ... rail, trench boxes, etc.) * Coordinating with laborers, spotters, and foreman during excavation ...

Skillforce

Heavy Equipment Operator

Concord, CA · Remote

$45 - $55/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil / Environmental Excavation) Pay: $ 45 - $ 55 /hour Location ... rail, trench boxes, etc.) * Coordinating with laborers, spotters, and foreman during excavation ...

Wright Tree Service

Hi Rail Apprentice I

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... operating heavy equipment successfully, preferably on Hi-Rail track. * Must have valid First-Aid and CPR cards or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire. * Excavator experience preferred but not ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRail Excavator Operator Jobs

Rail Excavator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do rail excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 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's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those specializing in specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators with extensive experience, certifications, and operating large or complex machinery. Rail excavator operators, in particular, can earn higher wages when working on large infrastructure projects or in regions with high demand for skilled operators. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

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 the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs typically include senior management roles such as railroad executives and project managers, as well as specialized technical positions like signal engineers and locomotive engineers with extensive experience. These roles often require advanced certifications, technical skills, and years of experience, and can offer salaries exceeding six figures annually.

How to become a railroad excavator operator?

To become a railroad excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating heavy machinery. Certification in operating excavators and familiarity with safety protocols are often required, along with a valid driver's license and physical fitness for the demanding work environment.

How much do track hoe operators make?

Rail excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training and experience in heavy machinery tend to earn higher wages.

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

CDL Equipment Operator (Re-rail)

Qualdoc

Taneytown, MD • On-site

$26/hr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

CDL Equipment Operator (Re-rail)

Location: Taneytown, MD
Job Type: Direct Hire
Rate: Starts at $26.00/Hour can be higher depending on experience

Job Description:

Qualdoc is seeking Class A CDL drivers for an exciting position involving the remedying of train derailments in the region.

Responsible for loading, unloading and safe transportation of equipment and/or materials to/from job site, operation of equipment at job site (if qualified) and providing assistance in one or more of the following: rerailing operations, maintenance/repair of railroad cars, load adjust/transfer activities and track maintenance/repair/new builds. Ensures that all activities are carried out in a safe, effective, professional, and efficient manner.

This is a full-time hire with benefits.

Shift Details
  • 40 hours guaranteed each week
  • Significant overtime available (average 60+ hours/week including OT)
  • On call 24/7 to respond to emergency situations
Compensation Details
  • Hourly rate starts at $26.00/hour, depending upon experience
  • Hours outside of M-Fri 7am-4pm are paid at the overtime rate (time and a half)
  • Other compensation includes per diem, hotel pay for any travel, layover pay if over hours
Job Duties
  • Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspection of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with Company policy and D.O.T. regulations.
  • Drives tractor-trailer to/from job sites, inspects loads, and machinery being transported. Verifies transportation permits to ensure that specifications for overweight and oversize loads/equipment are accurate.
  • Upon arrival at job site, participates in discussions related to the days' work plan in to ensure safety/efficiency in carrying out daily work assignment. Actively participates in daily safety briefing.
  • Moves, stages, loads/unloads materials/equipment in preparation of work activities for rerailing, load adjust/transfer, and/or track maintenance/repair/new builds. Upon conclusion of assignment ensures that equipment/materials are reloaded for safe transportation and actively participates in site clean-up.
  • Assist in assembly, inspection, and operation of cranes and other equipment. Operates equipment in conformance with standard operational policies/procedures while following all safety rules/regulations. Assist with rigging and connection of chains, cables, and winches during derailments. Performs equipment operations with awareness to surroundings and co-workers so as to avoid dangerous situations.
  • Operates equipment (cranes, backhoes, grapple truck, dump truck, excavators, etc.) in accomplishment of tasks associated with specialty lifting, re-railing, load transfer, track maintenance/repair, grading or other work in preparation for railroad construction and related activities.
  • Works with hydraulic tools, welding, cutting with torches, electrical tools and common hand tools in accomplishment of work assignments.
  • Continuously monitors equipment/vehicles to minimize down town and to ensure operational readiness.
  • Perform and document minor service on equipment/vehicles, referring more complicated mechanical issues to Shop Manager/Foreman for repair.
  • Participates in disassembly/loading of cranes and other equipment as necessary at the end of job assignment.
  • Upon return to home base restocks vehicles/equipment with necessary parts, components, supplies in preparation of future work. Sorts scrap materials placing same in designated locations.
  • Flexible/work-ready to perform tasks for other departments/divisions as may be required to meet business needs and customer expectations.
  • Follows all required safety policies and procedures.
  • Maintains vehicles/equipment and work area ensuring that they are cleared of debris/trash, tools and equipment are organized and that the work area/vehicle/equipment present the level of quality and craftsmanship expected.
Requirements
  • Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with good driving record
  • Experience in construction labor or a similar role with physical labor requirements
  • Must pass qualification tests as required (training/ safety programs)
  • Be available 24/7 availability in order to respond to emergency calls for service, including weekends and holidays
Preferred Skills/Experience
  • 3+ years of experience operating heavy equipment including backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer loaders; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Pre-Employment Requirements
  • Pre-Employment drug screen
  • Background check
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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.
apply for this job

About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020

View All Qualdoc Jobs

Apply