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Rail Loader Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$21.45 - $23.14/hr

Experience in intermodal or rail yard operations. * Familiarity with container handling equipment such as hostlers, top loaders, or cranes. * CDL or equipment certifications a plus, but not required.

Equipment Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Operate a forklift to load and unload materials and deliveries and move them to and from storage areas, machines and loading docks into railroad cars or trucks or storage facilities. Transport ...

Equipment Operator

Ghent, KY

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Operate a forklift to load and unload materials and deliveries and move them to and from storage areas, machines and loading docks into railroad cars or trucks or storage facilities. Transport ...

Equipment Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Operate a forklift to load and unload materials and deliveries and move them to and from storage areas, machines and loading docks into railroad cars or trucks or storage facilities. Transport ...

Elevator Operator

Hickman, KY · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Load and unload trucks, barges, vessels, and rail cars. * Handle grain storage and material movement. * Perform basic equipment maintenance. * Inspect equipment for safe operation. * Follow safety ...

Load and unload trucks, barges, vessels, and rail cars. * Handle grain storage and material movement. * Perform basic equipment maintenance. * Inspect equipment for safe operation. * Follow safety ...

Verifies counts and car/truck load numbers. * Prepares tie-grading reports for plant inventory purposes. * Compiles inventory information on truck and rail ties. * Compiles monthly information on the ...

Verifies counts and car/truck load numbers. * Prepares tie-grading reports for plant inventory purposes. * Compiles inventory information on truck and rail ties. * Compiles monthly information on the ...

Verifies counts and car/truck load numbers. Prepares tie-grading reports for plant inventory purposes. Compiles inventory information on truck and rail ties. Compiles monthly information on the plant ...

If loading a dryer, obtain an extracted sling from the overhead feed rail and verifies each batch ... Positions washer/dryer in proper loading position (tilted up), removes batch ticket, loads the ...

Showing results 21-40

Rail Loader information

See Kentucky salary details

$13

$16

$21

How much do rail loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail loader in Kentucky is $16.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a rail loader do?

A Rail Loader is responsible for safely loading and unloading goods, materials, or vehicles onto and from trains. They ensure that cargo is properly secured, documented, and handled according to safety regulations. Rail Loaders often work with heavy machinery and follow strict procedures to prevent accidents or damage. Their role is vital for efficient rail transport operations and timely delivery of freight.

What is the difference between Rail Loader vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectRail LoaderSignal Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, possibly CDLHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in signal systems
Work EnvironmentRail yards, loading areas, outdoor settingsRail yards, control centers, outdoor and indoor environments
Industry UsageFrequent in freight and passenger rail industriesCommon in rail operations, focusing on safety and signaling systems

Rail Loaders primarily handle loading and unloading cargo on trains in rail yards, requiring safety training and sometimes a commercial driver's license. Signal Maintainers focus on maintaining and repairing signaling systems to ensure safe train operations, often needing technical certifications. Both roles are essential in rail industry operations but differ in daily tasks and skill requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by rail loaders, and how can they be managed on the job?

Rail Loaders often work in fast-paced environments where safety, efficiency, and communication are critical. Common challenges include working in varying weather conditions, managing heavy or bulky cargo, and coordinating with team members to ensure precise loading schedules. Staying alert to safety protocols, wearing proper protective equipment, and maintaining clear communication with supervisors and train operators help overcome these challenges. Regular training and teamwork also play important roles in ensuring smooth operations and minimizing risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail loader?

To thrive as a Rail Loader, you need a solid understanding of freight handling, safety regulations, and operating heavy machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rail yard equipment, forklifts, and computerized inventory or tracking systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure smooth coordination and safe operations. These skills are crucial for maintaining efficiency, minimizing accidents, and ensuring timely and accurate railcar loading.
What job categories do people searching Rail Loader jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Loader jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Rail Loader jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Rail Loader job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Loader jobs in KY? For Rail Loader jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Rail Loader job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,432 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Grapple Truck Operator (CDL-A Required)

R J Corman Railroad Group

Lawrenceburg, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Who We Are:
R.J. Corman Railroad Services is a full-service railroad construction, maintenance-of-way and emergency response company with 17 divisions strategically located across the nation.
What You'll Do:
  • Transporting, operating, and servicing heavy equipment used in clearing railroad derailments
  • Safely operate grapple trucks with CDL-A license.
  • Material handling of heavy steel chains, blocks and steel cables, and other devices.
  • Practice safe working habits and ensure proper PPE is being used
  • Safely drive, operate, and maintain CDL-A required vehicles and equipment
  • Maintenance, cleaning, and set-up of equipment requiring use of small and large tools including cutting torch and welding.
  • Digging, hammering, and other physical types of work with various tools
  • Follow DOT regulations, ensuring proper permits and driving regulations are followed
  • Be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions
  • Communicate with team and supervisor throughout the job process
  • Other duties as assigned

Why Work for R.J. Corman?
  • Operate heavy or specialized equipment (i.e. Sideboom, Track Loader, Excavator, Vac Truck, Grapple Truck, etc.)
  • Guaranteed 40 hours per week with high potential for overtime
  • Hotel and travel expenses paid for
  • Company provided PPE
  • On the job training provided and advancement opportunities

What You'll Need:
  • Must pass background, drug screen, and physical capacity test
  • Valid CDL-A with no restrictions with manual endorsement and DOT medical card required.
  • Lifting 100 lbs. maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects up to 50 lbs.
  • Comfortable with working at heights over 25 feet on railroad cars; on bridges, over water, or in water.
  • Love working outside!

Benefits:
R.J. Corman Railroad Group, LLC is committed to providing its full-time employees and their families with quality benefits. R.J. Corman offers the following benefits:
Full-Time Team Members:
  • Immediate Eligibility Starting Day One of Employment:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • PTO (Paid Time Off) Accrual
  • 8 Paid Holidays Per Year
  • Veteran's Day is a Paid Holiday for US Veterans
  • Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Short and Long-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Accident Insurance
  • FSA and HSA Options
  • 401K Employer Match
  • Paid Maternity Leave
  • Group Life Insurance

All Team Members:
  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Referral Bonuses
  • Employee Discounts from Various Suppliers
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Annual Boot Voucher
  • Company Provided PPE
  • Prescription Safety Glasses Allowance

R.J. Corman Railroad is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that is committed to a safe and drug-free workplace. R. J. Corman performs pre-employment criminal background checks and substance abuse testing, which includes a urine drug test to detect the presence of illegal drugs. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping R. J. Corman a safe and drug-free company.
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.