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Rail Operations Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Cargill

Rail Operations Professional

Wayzata, MN · Hybrid

$90/hr

... other entities to manage the efficient and cost-effective utilization of the rail fleet ... Minimum of two years of operations experience in any mode of logistics * Intermediate MS Excel ...

Cargill

Rail Operations Professional

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$90/hr

... other entities to manage the efficient and cost-effective utilization of the rail fleet ... Minimum of two years of operations experience in any mode of logistics * Intermediate MS Excel ...

Cargill

Rail Operations Professional

Wayzata, MN · Hybrid

$90/hr

... other entities to manage the efficient and cost-effective utilization of the rail fleet ... Minimum of two years of operations experience in any mode of logistics * Intermediate MS Excel ...

Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc.

Shift Manager Operations

MN · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Babbitt, MN Cleveland-Cliffs has an immediate opening for a Shift Manager Railroad Operations at our Northshore Mining Company facility located in Babbitt, MN. The primary responsibility of this ...

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Rail Operations Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$30.4K

$62.1K

$116.1K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in Minnesota is $62,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,200.00 and $75,900.00 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 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 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 does a rail operations manager do?

A rail operations manager oversees the daily functioning of railway services, including scheduling, safety compliance, and coordination of train movements. They ensure efficient operations by managing staff, monitoring equipment, and implementing safety protocols, often using specialized software and adhering to industry regulations.
What are popular job titles related to Rail Operations Manager jobs in Minnesota? For Rail Operations Manager jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Operations Manager jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Operations Manager jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Rail Operations Manager jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Rail Operations Manager job openings:
Rail Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operations Manager job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,150 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Rail Operations Professional

Cargill

Wayzata, MN • Hybrid

$90/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Cargill rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 220 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 49 rated food wholesalers

Job description

Cargill is a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with life's essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.

This position is in our Food Enterprise where we are committed to serving food manufacturers, food service customers, and retailers with a complete range of innovative ingredients and branded products. Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate.

Job Purpose and Impact

The Rail Operations Professional will plan and coordinate inbound and outbound rail operations, including plant switching, diversions, waybilling, and tracking cars to ensure sufficient supply of railcars and the proper maintenance of the fleet. In this role, you will execute tasks and resolve more complex issues for standard modes of transport during shipments within the US, Canada, and Mexico.  This role will also back up the Export Operations Professional. 

Key Accountabilities
  • Independently collect and organize fleet related information from internal and external systems and functional areas and maintain computer data to track and document movement. 
  • Coordinate with Production Scheduling, Inventory Planning, Plants, Railroads, and other entities to manage the efficient and cost-effective utilization of the rail fleet.
  • Continuously improve systems and processes to meet the organization's needs through efficient transportation of materials.
  • Monitor rail activities such as receiving, locating, dispatching, and optimizing railcar levels.
  • Independently solve moderately complex issues with minimal supervision, while escalating more complex issues to appropriate staff.
  • Other duties as assigned  #LI-JG3  #LI-Hybrid
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience
  • Minimum of two years of operations experience in any mode of logistics
  • Intermediate MS Excel skills including but not limited to pivot tables, lookups, formulas, and charting
  • Comfortable with a fast-paced environment, adjusting to sudden changes of plan, and problem-solving
  • Solid organization and prioritization skills 

Preferred Qualifications   

  • Rail operations experience 
  • Export operations experience 
Position Details
  • Location: Wayzata, MN - Chicago, IL  - Wichita, KS
  • Posted: Internal and External
  • Relocation assistance is not provided for this role
  • Schedule: 8am- 5pm
  • The expected salary for this position is $70 000 - $90 000. Compensation varies depending on a wide array of factors including but not limited to the specific location, certifications, education, and level of experience. The disclosed range estimate may be adjusted for any applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. This position is eligible for a discretionary incentive award. The incentive award amount is dependent upon company performance and your personal performance. 
  • At Cargill we put people first. As part of your overall rewards, we offer a comprehensive benefit program including medical and/or other benefits dependent on the position offered and hours worked. Visit: https://www.cargill.com/page/my-health/mh-health-and-wellness to learn more (subject to certain collective bargaining agreements for Union positions)

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet

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About Cargill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cargill was founded in 1865 as a single grain warehouse in Iowa, U.S. Since then, we’ve grown to become a global partner connecting people around the planet. But one thing has remained constant over the years: our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Cargill is committed to conducting business with integrity, operating responsibly, enriching communities and nourishing the world. In the fiscal year 2021, Cargill provided $110.5 million in total charitable contributions in 56 countries to support our communities. Cargill businesses and employee-led groups partner with local civic, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations on programs and projects that improve food security and nutrition; support human rights, equity and inclusion; strengthen farmer livelihoods; and advance our commitments in the areas of land use, water and climate.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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