ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rail Hostler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsRail Hostler Jobs

Rail Hostler information

See salary details

$11

$22

$28

How much do rail hostler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail hostler in the United States is $22.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Rail Hostler vs Locomotive Engineer?

AspectRail HostlerLocomotive Engineer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certificationsHigh school diploma; locomotive engineer certification/license
Work EnvironmentRail yards, switching areas, maintenance facilitiesOn locomotives, train routes, rail yards
Employer & IndustryRailroads, freight companies, transit agenciesRailroads, freight and passenger train operators

Rail Hostlers primarily move and position railcars within yards, focusing on switching and yard operations. Locomotive Engineers operate trains over routes, handling the driving and safety of passenger or freight trains. While both roles require knowledge of rail operations, the Rail Hostler's work is more yard-focused, whereas the Locomotive Engineer's role involves operating trains over longer distances.

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

To thrive as a Rail Hostler, you need knowledge of rail yard operations, locomotive handling, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with railroad safety procedures, radio communication systems, and sometimes a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is important. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with train crews and ensuring operational safety. These skills help prevent accidents, maintain efficient yard operations, and support the safe movement of rail equipment.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically senior management positions such as railroad executives, including roles like Chief Operating Officer or Vice President, which can earn six-figure salaries. Skilled technical roles like locomotive engineers and signal managers also tend to have higher compensation, especially with experience and specialized certifications.

What are Rail Hostlers?

Rail Hostlers are specialized railroad workers responsible for moving locomotives within rail yards, service facilities, or depots. Their main duties include driving locomotives short distances for fueling, servicing, cleaning, or storage, but not for mainline transportation. Rail Hostlers ensure that locomotives are positioned correctly for maintenance or coupling and uncoupling to train cars. They must follow strict safety protocols and often collaborate with other yard personnel to keep operations running smoothly.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Rail hostlers typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or senior corporate positions. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and certifications. For most roles, reaching a $300,000 salary involves leadership or highly specialized expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by Rail Hostlers when moving locomotives within rail yards?

Rail Hostlers often encounter challenges such as maneuvering large locomotives in confined yard spaces, coordinating with other yard personnel to ensure safe and efficient movements, and adapting to varying weather conditions that can affect visibility and track conditions. Effective communication, attention to safety protocols, and quick problem-solving are essential to manage these challenges. Additionally, Rail Hostlers must remain vigilant to avoid equipment damage and ensure smooth operations during shift changes or busy periods.

How to become a hostler?

To become a rail hostler, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check. Training is often provided on the job, focusing on locomotive operations, safety procedures, and equipment handling; some positions may require a commercial driver's license or specific certifications. Experience with heavy machinery and good communication skills are also beneficial.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Rail hostlers typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like executive-level positions, certain consulting or investment jobs, or highly skilled contractors. Most jobs with high daily pay require extensive experience, certifications, or working in industries like finance, law, or executive management.
More about Rail Hostler jobs
What job categories do people searching Rail Hostler jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Hostler jobs are:
Rail Hostler jobs near you
Rail Yard Hostler (Harvey)

Rail Yard Hostler (Harvey)

Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc.

Harvey, IL

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Universal Logistics Holdings rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

300th of 340 rated logistics

Job description

Are you looking to join a dynamic team that provides its people with the tools to be successfull and opportunities to grow?
Universal Logistics is a leading provider of customized transportation and logistics solutions, offering a comprehensive suite of services including transportation, value-added, intermodal, and specialized services utilized throughout entire supply chains.
Universal has immediate career opportunities in your area. Apply today to become part of the Universal team!

Summary:

Responsible for directing crane operators in moving cargo containers and prepares railcars for loading and unloading. Once trained to operate a hostler you will drive trailers and chassis with containers around the rail yard terminal as they are loaded and unloaded to/from the train.

Shift Time: Must be able to work any of the following shift times assigned

  • 6:00 am to 2:30 pm
  • 2:00 pm to 10:30 pm
  • 10:00 pm to 6:30 am

Benefits at Parsec

  • Exceptional Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Benefits (3 plan design choices)
  • 401(k)
  • Company paid life insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits
  • Paid Weekly
  • Paid Time Off (After probationary period)
  • Opportunity for growth

Responsibilities:

Prepares rail cars for the correct size of the trailer/containers to be loaded

  • Guides/directs the crane operator in unloading/loading cargo containers Installs inter box connector locks (IBC) and climbs on the rail car to remove and install the IBC lock
  • Sets the Derailer
  • Spot chassis for inbound containers
  • Park inbound trailer/containers S
  • pot outbound trailer/containers for loading
  • Clear bare chassis away from the tracks

Video Job Description:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1vctjt-nyE

Video Job Description:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Re9NDb5MRsQ

Qualifications:

  • 18 years of age or older
  • Valid driver's license
  • Willing and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Open availability to work: day, swing, night, weekends, and holidays
  • Must comply with established safety rules, policies, and procedures, including wearing required safety equipment
  • Documented successful completion of lawful post-offer, pre-employment checks including criminal background check and drug screening.

Parsec is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, religion, gender including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), genetic information, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical conditions, family care status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by local, state or federal laws.

YouTube

Ground Person - Job Description Video

Parsec, Inc.

OpenBy using YouTube, you agree to theprivacy policy,terms of use, andpermissions.

What Universal Logistics Holdings employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply