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Rail Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

METRO

Rail Operations Controller

Houston, TX

$70K - $92K/yr

Basic Function Responsible for overseeing safe, efficient, and reliable rail operation along the ... This is a professional traffic management position of a challenging nature, which requires ...

METRO

Rail Operations Controller

Houston, TX · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

Basic Function Responsible for overseeing safe, efficient, and reliable rail operation along the ... This is a professional traffic management position of a challenging nature, which requires ...

CapMetro

Vice President, Rail Operations

Austin, TX · On-site

Rail Operations Management * Provide executive oversight for daily commuter rail operations strategic oversight of commuter rail operations through subordinate leadership, including operations ...

Primient

Specialist, Rail Operations

Decatur, IL

Specialist, Rail Operations | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an ... Monitor and manage railcars out of service for maintenance, ensuring swift coordination with repair ...

CapMetro

Vice President, Rail Operations

Austin, TX · On-site

Strong strategic planning and change management expertise. * Deep understanding of rail operations, safety systems, and regulatory compliance. * Ability to lead through ambiguity and complex ...

Keolis America

Rail Operations SME

Boston, MA · On-site

Knowledge of various rail modes such as Commuter Rail, Light Rail, and / or Streetcar preferred ... Collaborates with other team members including Project Director/Manager, Operations and Pricing ...

STV

Rail Operations Planning Lead

New York, NY

$151K - $172K/yr

STV is seeking a Rail Operations Planning Lead to join our Systems Department in our New York City ... Support systems integration and interface management, ensuring alignment between operational plans ...

Primient

Specialist, Rail Operations

Decatur, IL · On-site

Specialist, Rail Operations | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an ... Monitor and manage railcars out of service for maintenance, ensuring swift coordination with repair ...

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Rail Operations Manager information

See salary details

$31K

$63.5K

$118.5K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in the United States is $63,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Rail Operations Manager, you need a strong background in transportation logistics, operational management, and safety regulations, often supported by a relevant degree or significant industry experience. Familiarity with rail traffic control systems, scheduling software, and safety compliance tools is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills are essential to effectively coordinate teams and manage unexpected challenges. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable rail operations while meeting organizational goals.

What is the difference between Rail Operations Manager vs Rail Supervisor?

AspectRail Operations ManagerRail Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire rail operations, manages teams, ensures safety and efficiencySupervises daily activities of rail crews, enforces safety protocols
CredentialsTypically requires relevant experience, certifications in safety and operationsOften requires experience in rail work, safety training
Work EnvironmentOffice-based planning, field oversight, coordination with multiple departmentsOn-site supervision of train crews and maintenance teams
Industry UsageCommonly used in large rail companies and freight operationsUsed in daily operational roles within rail companies

The Rail Operations Manager focuses on strategic oversight and coordination of rail activities, while the Rail Supervisor handles daily supervision of crews. Both roles require safety certifications and industry experience, but the manager has broader responsibilities for overall operations.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically executive roles such as Chief Operating Officer or Vice President of Rail Operations, which can earn six-figure salaries. Senior management positions overseeing large networks or specialized operations tend to have the highest compensation in the industry.

How much is the salary of an operations manager?

The salary of a Rail Operations Manager typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the rail company. Additional benefits may include bonuses, health insurance, and retirement plans, and the role often requires strong organizational and leadership skills.

What are the main challenges Rail Operations Managers typically face when coordinating schedules and resources?

Rail Operations Managers often navigate the complexities of coordinating train schedules, crew assignments, and track maintenance while ensuring safety and minimizing delays. Balancing the needs of passenger and freight services, handling unexpected disruptions like weather or mechanical issues, and maintaining clear communication with multiple teams are common challenges. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure.

How much does a manager of train operations make?

A Rail Operations Manager typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. The role involves overseeing train schedules, safety protocols, and staff management, often requiring certifications and knowledge of rail systems.

What are Rail Operations Managers?

Rail Operations Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of railway systems, ensuring that trains run safely, efficiently, and on schedule. They manage staff, coordinate train movements, and handle any operational issues that arise. Their role often includes planning and implementing safety procedures, liaising with other departments, and analyzing performance data to improve service quality. Rail Operations Managers play a crucial role in maintaining smooth and reliable rail services.

What does a rail operations manager do?

A rail operations manager oversees the daily functioning of rail transportation, including scheduling, safety compliance, and coordination of train movements. They ensure efficient operations, manage staff, and utilize tools like scheduling software to meet safety and performance standards.
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Rail Operations Manager jobs near you
Rail Operations Manager, Streetcar

Rail Operations Manager, Streetcar

Orange County Transportation Authority

Orange, CA

$149K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Orange County Transportation Authority rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 661 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Job Description

Rail Operations Manager - Streetcar

This position title and salary range are pending final Board approval in June 2026

Under minimal guidance, manages contractor performance for the OC Streetcar fleet and critical wayside systems to support safe, reliable, and efficient daily revenue service. Reporting within the Rail Operations Department, this role oversees fleet and infrastructure availability, maintenance compliance, service reliability, and coordination across operations, safety, and contractor teams.

This is an exempt position in salary grade 245: Min - $149,614.40 | Mid - $177,736.00 | Max - $205,857.60/annually. The starting salary will be within this range based on qualifications.

This posting will remain open until a candidate is selected.

What You'll Do

  • Manage contractor maintenance performance for streetcar vehicles and wayside systems
  • Monitor fleet availability, service reliability, and maintenance compliance metrics
  • Review maintenance records, inspections, certifications, and safety documentation
  • Support preventive maintenance programs and ensure compliance with FTA, OSHA, and CPUC requirements
  • Lead analysis of recurring equipment issues and support root-cause investigations
  • Coordinate daily with Operations Control, Safety, engineering, and contractor teams
  • Support vehicle acceptance testing, commissioning, and transition to revenue service
  • Track budgets, inventory, vendor performance, and lifecycle asset management strategies
  • Prepare reports and presentations on system performance, delays, and operational trends

What We're Looking For

  • Strong technical expertise in rail vehicle systems, infrastructure maintenance, and transit operations
  • Knowledge of FTA regulations and rail maintenance compliance requirements
  • Ability to analyze operational data and drive performance improvements
  • Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
  • Experience managing contractor performance and complex maintenance operations

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, Electrical Technology, or related field
  • Minimum 7 years of experience in rail transit vehicle and/or wayside systems maintenance oversight
  • Knowledge of FTA 49 CFR requirements required
  • CPUC experience strongly preferred

Why You'll Love It Here

  • Play a key role in launching and supporting the OC Streetcar system
  • Work on innovative transportation infrastructure that impacts the community
  • Collaborate with skilled professionals across rail operations, engineering, and safety
  • Opportunity to shape maintenance performance, reliability, and long-term asset management strategies

Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued.
Apply now to help shape the future of OCTA's programs.

OCTA is an equal employment opportunity employer that recruits, hires, and promotes qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or other legally protected status.

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