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Rail Operations Manager Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Railserve provides opportunities for long-term career growth and advancement within rail operations ... manage multiple tasks and priorities safely and effectively Strong attention to detail and ...

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

... operational documentation Complete work schedules, manage calendars, and coordinate appointments Operate office equipment and perform data entry tasks Walk rail track as needed to verify railcar ...

Ability to climb stairs and ladders as well as work at heights; manage confined space entry ... Working Conditions Safety Sensitive position with Continuous 24/7 plant operation. Regular exposure ...

Rail Loader

Sheffield, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Precision Vehicle Logistics is focused on yard management working in partnership with labor unions ... What You'll Do As an essential member of the Operations team, you will play a vital role in ...

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Rail Operations Manager information

See Ohio salary details

$29.5K

$60.3K

$112.7K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in Ohio is $60,328.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,000.00 and $73,700.00 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 Ohio? For Rail Operations Manager jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Rail Operations Manager jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Rail Operations Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Rail Operations Manager job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,328 per year, or $29 per hour.

Director of Landfill Rail Operations

Interstate Waste Services

Amsterdam, OH

$150K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Interstate Waste Services rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 89 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio.  IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers.

Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business.


The Director of Rail IWS is responsible for leading all rail-related production operations and planning functions, making key operational decisions, and setting strategic goals to consistently meet or exceed production targets. This role involves overseeing the day-to-day rail operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and compliance while supervising staff and providing constructive feedback. Accountability includes managing the rail yard, Gondola operation, and Rail ADT supervision. Reporting to the General Manager, the Director will also play a crucial role in optimizing and developing the rail yard to support future growth.


  • Provide proactive and strategic process leadership for operations activities in support of planning, engineering, and construction projects for rail
  • Provide expertise to complex transit and rail operations projects, and work across business lines and disciplines as needed to achieve the best outcomes for our clients.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs. Manage the day-to-day operations in the Landfill railyard to ensure the waste is efficiently moved from the railyard to the landfill working face.
  • Ensure all railcar switching, coupling, and moving occurs in a safe and productive manner.
  • Inspect and evaluate all aspects of the rail in the railyard and document any issues found. Ability to troubleshoot issues and deduct the best possible solutions to remedy any issues.
  • Develop long term action plans to improve the overall capacity and efficiency of the railyard.
  • Follows and administers company safety programs by conducting daily, weekly, and monthly safety meetings, facility inspections, and ensuring compliance to all OSHA, MSHA, and FRA regulations.
  • Work collaboratively with the other supervisors/managers to complete the daily work activities in an effective and timely manner.
  • Work cooperatively with maintenance to ensure PMs are completed as scheduled, and that issues with equipment are reported in a timely manner
  • Provide feedback and insight into equipment procurement and major repairs.
  • Utilize proprietary software to track the movement of railcars into and out of the railyard.
  • Establish, monitor, and report out on safety, quality, and productivity key performance indicator
  • Any other duties as assigned by the General Manager or Executive Vice President
  • Provide freight rail operations and strategic planning experience to projects such as state rail plans.
  • Lead technical aspects of projects, including making presentations, facilitating meetings, and working with contractors.
  • Drive the overall long-term strategy, growth, and pipeline development of Rail Operations and Service Planning work for the Landfill with a focus on rail infrastructure and operations opportunities in all disciplines (planning, design, strategic consulting, advisory services, and program/construction management).
  • Drive compliance and accountability at all levels with applicable Federal, State, and Local laws, codes, policies, and regulatory requirements that apply to transit and rail operations, especially FRA and FTA.
  • Lead meetings and continuing educational opportunities for areas of responsibility, providing updates and recommendations to staff that ensure all appropriate measures are taken to foster innovation, development, and quality project delivery.
  • Serve as a IWS representative/liaison to a variety of external entities including Federal, State, and Local Agencies, Clients, Subcontractors, industry-related groups, and various government and community entities.
  • Provide input and information for proposals and project work scopes, pricing, budget, and performance metrics.
  • Remain current in latest rail operating, planning, and safety practices.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to IWS Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Pursue credentials and certifications relevant to current and future responsibilities of the position and/or subsequent positions.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in a planning, transportation, business, or other related discipline.
  • 10+ years’ experience in railroad operations, including operations planning, operations management, service development, and safety.
  • Knowledge of FRA-regulated railroad operations, or a combination of education and/or relevant experience to meet the job requirements.
  • Knowledge in strategic rail planning.
  • Proficiency in office productivity software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Excellent written and oral communications skills.
  • Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed.
  • Experience in the Landfill industry with supporting waste by Rail operations is strongly preferred
  • Knowledge of locomotive operation rail yard operation, and conducting is required
  • Knowledge of heavy equipment operation is strongly preferred
  • Basic mechanical and technology skills
  • Must have demonstrated leadership, problem solving and organizational skills and ability to maintain and promote a teamwork environment
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • Must be able to walk around the facility and be on his, or her feet throughout the day

This job description is intended to be an accurate representation of the general functions of the job, rather than exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or experience. Other duties may be assigned, requested, or required. Aspects of the job may be altered without notice.

Interstate Waste Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.


USD $150,000.00/Yr.
USD $190,000.00/Yr.

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