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Rail Operations Manager Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Manage rail operating budgets through effective labor ordering, workforce planning, and achievement of man-per-hour performance objectives. * Ensure accuracy of operational systems, including Navis ...

Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key corporate railroad clients, including operations executives and stakeholders * Manage and own key client books of business, including safety ...

$110K - $140K/yr

As US Rail Operations Lead, you will ... Serve as project manager and lead teams in executing technical projects and producing technical ...

... operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, hands-on role critical to ... manage multiple tasks and priorities safely and effectively Strong attention to detail and ...

Job Summary With reporting responsibilities to the AVP of Rail Operations, this position is directly responsible for the management of the company's Rail Clerical department. Provides consistent ...

$128K/yr

Cando Rail & Terminals is North America's leading provider of specialized rail operating services ... The Operations Manager will provide leadership and guidance to a specialized team in planning ...

$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 ...

$81K - $110K/yr

... and sustainable rail operations. Our team is committed to upholding the highest standards ... HOW YOU CAN MAKE AN IMPACT As a Cybersecurity Manage r, you will be responsible for developing ...

The Federal Rail Administration sets and enforces safety regulations and standards for railroad ... Experience managing railyard operations or similar logistical operations. * Familiarity with ...

... and operation of the Company's rail transportation infrastructure. Reporting directly to the Logistics Manager, this role will serve as the technical subject matter expert responsible for railway ...

Knowledge of Rail operations (daily operations, carriers, service lanes, quality and service standards, negotiation techniques, and follow-through, etc.). * Strategic sourcing and category management ...

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Showing results 1-20

Rail Operations Manager information

See Kentucky salary details

$26.9K

$55.1K

$102.9K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in Kentucky is $55,113.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,600.00 and $67,300.00 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 Kentucky?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Rail Operations Manager job openings in Kentucky as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,113 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Operations Manager, Rail

On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

APM TerminalsWhere global trade meets innovation

Step into the engine room of global commerce. At APM Terminals Elizabeth, you’ll be at the center of one of the busiest port complexes in North America. Every container you touch keeps freight moving through the Port of New York C New Jersey, supporting critical supply chains across the East Coast and beyond.

This is a place where speed, scale, and precision come together. You’ll collaborate with high-performing teams in a fast-paced, high-volume environment where safety and operational excellence are the top priorities. Here, your impact is immediate—and global.

Why you’ll love it here
  • Be part of a major gateway on the U.S. East Coast
  • Experience high-volume, complex terminal operations
  • Work with driven teams in a fast-moving environment
  • Continuous improvement mindset - where curiosity is encouraged, root-cause problem solving is valued, and making things better every day is part of how we win

Manager of Rail Operations

At APM Terminals, a global leader in port and terminal operations, we enable global trade and drive sustainable growth. What drives us forward is a mindset of always improving - observing how work happens, identifying what creates value, and removing what gets in the way. We constantly look for smarter, simpler, and safer ways of operating. If you thrive in environments where people value learning and are committed to continuously improve daily operations, join us and be a part of our journey.

What We Can Offer
  • Work in a critical leadership role supporting one of the world's most integrated port and terminal networks.
  • Contribute directly to operational excellence through continuous improvement, process refinement, and data-driven decision making.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, customers, industry partners, and union representatives in a dynamic terminal environment.
  • Develop your operational and leadership capabilities through exposure to rail, yard, vessel, gate, and maintenance operations.

At APM Terminals, we foster a dynamic learning and training culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to improvement means every team member has the opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers by continuously refining how we work. Experience a diverse, multinational workplace where your operational insights directly influence how we work.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead daily rail operations to achieve safety, service, production, and efficiency targets, including zero accidents, zero service failures, and rail productivity goals.
  • Coordinate more than 200,000 rail moves annually at APM Terminals Elizabeth and represent the company within the Millennium Marine Rail LLP operations team supporting more than 400,000 rail lifts annually.
  • Manage rail operating budgets through effective labor ordering, workforce planning, and achievement of man-per-hour performance objectives.
  • Ensure accuracy of operational systems, including Navis N4/XPS and rail planning tools, maintaining real-time visibility of loaded and discharged rail equipment.
  • Monitor operational performance using reporting tools and dashboards to identify constraints, improve productivity, and enhance customer service outcomes.
  • Build strong working relationships with internal departments, steamship lines, affiliated business units, customers, vendors, truckers, and labor representatives.
  • Oversee compliance with ILA labor agreements, support grievance processes, promote safe work practices, and develop a high-performing operations team.
What We Are Looking For:
  • Continuous improvement mindset: we are looking for someone who brings a thoughtful improvement mindset—curious about how work gets done and motivated to make meaningful, sustainable improvements over time.
  • Leadership expectation: We are looking for people who consistently put customers first, lead by example with respect for people, deliver results with integrity, and drive continuous improvement by solving problems at the root, developing people, and raising standards every day.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Operations Management, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • Minimum of five years of terminal operations experience, with experience in rail, intermodal, or container terminal environments preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of Terminal Operating Systems, particularly Navis N4/XPS, along with rail/intermodal planning tools and gate or appointment systems such as GOS/TAS.
  • Experience working in a unionized environment, including labor relations, contract administration, and grievance management, is strongly preferred.
  • Proven ability to analyze operational data and performance dashboards, translating insights into productivity, service, and operational improvements.
  • Valid driver's license, ability to meet company insurability requirements, and eligibility to obtain or renew both TWIC and Port Access credentials.
  • Demonstrated strengths in accountability, agility, collaboration, and operational leadership within a fast-paced environment.

Salary: $110K - $120K

Location: Elizabeth, NJ

Notice to applicants applying to positions in the United States

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.

APM Terminals is committed to equal employment opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities who are applying for positions in the U.S. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Maersk is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we embrace different styles of thinking. Maersk is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants without regard to race, colour, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy or parental leave, veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all legal requirements.

Rotating Shifts (United States of America)

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