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Rail Operations Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Metro Ports

Operations Manager

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$83K - $103K/yr

Interfaces and communicates with customers, agents, rail companies, PMA, Local ILWU representatives, and pilots' associations to support effective operational execution. * Ensures strict compliance ...

Herzog

Manager of Field Operations

San Jose, CA · On-site

$152K - $160K/yr

Exercises leadership and supervision over rail operations which are composed of operations managers, and TE&Y. Provide counsel and guidance of, and render performance appraisal evaluation of ...

Herzog

Manager of Field Operations

San Jose, CA · On-site

$152K - $160K/yr

Exercises leadership and supervision over rail operations which are composed of operations managers, and TE&Y. Provide counsel and guidance of, and render performance appraisal evaluation of ...

Career Movement

Operations Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

They are looking to add two Operations Managers to lead the day-to-day supervision of terminal ... rail functions. Make real-time decisions on labor assignments, shift extensions, and equipment ...

Career Movement

Operations Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

They are looking to add two Operations Managers to lead the day-to-day supervision of terminal ... rail functions. Make real-time decisions on labor assignments, shift extensions, and equipment ...

Career Movement

Operations Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

They are looking to add two Operations Managers to lead the day-to-day supervision of terminal ... rail functions. Make real-time decisions on labor assignments, shift extensions, and equipment ...

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All JobsRail Operations JobsRail Operations Manager JobsRail Operations Manager Jobs in California

Rail Operations Manager information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$62.6K

$116.9K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in California is $62,625.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail operations manager?

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 are the main challenges a rail operations manager typically faces 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Rail Operations Manager jobs in California?

For Rail Operations Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Operations Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Operations Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Rail Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Rail Operations Manager job openings:

Rail Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operations Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,625 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Intern, Rail Operations

Orange County Transportation Authority

Orange, CA • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 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

6th of 854 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Job Description
College Intern - Regional Rail
Under direct supervision, supports OCTA's Rail initiatives by assisting with compiling and analyzing rail performance data, preparing presentations and reports, attending and summarizing Committee and Board meetings, graphic design, and supporting special projects. The position will also provide opportunities to participate in field work and gain firsthand exposure to rail and transit operations, programs, and projects.
You will perform a variety of professional entry-level duties related to your major field of study and the sponsoring department's current business operations. As a College Intern, you will be exposed to OCTA's career opportunities in the transportation industry. You will gain deeper awareness of transportation's many facets through your OCTA orientation, projects and teams, and internal networking.
OCTA's College Intern Program is a year-round paid student/intern program. You will gain real world work experience on meaningful projects under the guidance of a transportation professional. You will have the opportunity to use problem solving, communication and decision-making skills as you gain valuable work experience. You will also work with a mentor and benefit from career counseling.
The pay range is from $20.00 - $23.00 per hour depending on your education level. This position is not eligible for employee benefits. The work schedule will consist of approximately 20 hours a week, not to exceed 1,000 hours within a continuous 12-month period.
This posting will remain open until a candidate is selected.
What You'll Do
  • Prepare presentations, reports, and materials highlighting rail performance metrics, including ridership and on-time performance.
  • Support analysis of rail system performance data and trends.
  • Assist with rail program, budget, and project tracking.
  • Attend Committee and Board of Directors meetings and prepare meeting notes and summaries.
  • Participate in rail and transit field work to gain firsthand industry experience.
  • Conduct research and complete special projects related to rail and transit.
  • Compile and organize data for reports, presentations, and decision-making.
  • Support document control, file organization, and records management activities.

What We're Looking For
  • Currently enrolled full-time college student (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) at an accredited two- or four-year college or university
  • Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree relevant to transportation, planning, business administration, engineering, data analytics, public administration or a related discipline
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
  • Interest in public transportation, rail operations, transportation planning or related areas
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines
  • Ability to learn technical concepts and take on increasingly responsible assignments.
  • Detail-oriented, dependable, and comfortable working collaboratively in a professional environment.

Why You'll Love It Here
  • Gain real-world transportation experience while working on rail and transit programs that serve Orange County.
  • Turn data into insights by working with ridership, on-time performance, and other key rail metrics.
  • See transportation in action through opportunities to participate in rail and transit field work.
  • Learn how public agencies operate through exposure to projects, budgets, programs, and OCTA's Committee and Board processes.
  • Build your professional network while learning alongside experienced transportation professionals.
  • Strengthen your resume with meaningful projects and practical experience related to your field of study.

Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued.
Apply now to gain meaningful experience and contribute to OCTA's transportation initiatives.
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 any other legally protected status.

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