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Rail Operations Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

STV

Senior Engineering Operations Manager

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$116K - $133K/yr

STV is seeking a Senior Engineering Operations Manager to serve as a trusted operations leader and subject matter expert supporting transit and rail clients nationwide. This highly consultative role ...

Hampton Roads Transit

Rail Hostler

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.67/hr

Performs pre-operational inspections on shop non-revenue vehicles as assigned. * Develops and ... Manage records created and received in compliance with the Hampton Roads Transit Records Management ...

Gohrt

Rail Hostler

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23.67/hr

Performs pre-operational inspections on shop non-revenue vehicles as assigned. * Develops and ... Manage records created and received in compliance with the Hampton Roads Transit Records Management ...

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All JobsRail Operations JobsRail Operations Manager JobsRail Operations Manager Jobs in Virginia

Rail Operations Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$62.9K

$117.5K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in Virginia is $62,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,600.00 and $76,800.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Rail Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operations Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,912 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Assistant Operation Manager, Metro Integrated Command and Communication (MICC)

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Washington Metroplitan Area Transit Authority
See more jobs at Washington Metroplitan Area Transit Authorityexternal

Other

This job post has expired 5 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION
The Assistant Operations Manager, MICC serves as RAIL 2 or RAIL 3, supporting safe and efficient rail operations 24/7/365. This role manages the Rail Traffic function by supervising Rail Traffic Controllers and coordinating daily train movements, maintenance, communications, and service performance. The incumbent works closely with the Maintenance and Communications Managers to ensure cohesive operations and executes decisions from the Operations Manager (RAIL 1). Leading by example, the Assistant Manager fosters collaboration and a shared safety-focused culture across MICC functions. They also handle performance management and administrative duties for Rail Traffic Controllers.
Principal Job Duties
  • Incident Response Coordination
    • May serve as RAIL 2, directing and coordinating the Maintenance and Information functions of the ROCC to execute decisions made by the Operations Manager serving as RAIL 1.
    • May serve as RAIL 3, supervising and directing the Rail Traffic Controllers to execute decisions made by the Operations Manager serving as RAIL 1.
    • Monitors of the rail for incidents. Provides the Operations Manager serving as RAIL 1 with important information and updates on the rail to allow RAIL 1 to best categorize the severity and impact of any incidents and determine the response action and communications for each function.
  • Operational
    • Supports the Operations Manager serving as RAIL 1 to directs the Rail Traffic, Maintenance, and Information functions of the ROCC to ensure that staff adhere to procedures and policies, prioritizing safety. Exercises sound judgement and communicates effectively to proper stakeholders to enable fast execution of decisions.
    • Facilitates a quick flow of information between the Operations Manager serving as RAIL 1 and the other operational managers on the ROCC floor. Synchronizes the efforts of the Information Manager and Maintenance Manager with the Rail Traffic Controllers and ensures they receive sufficient information about developments on the rail with ample time to direct their frontline staff.
    • Supervises Rail Traffic Controllers, providing counsel and guidance.
    • Reviews system performance and recommends appropriate adjustments to ensure the ROCC maintains proper schedule adherence, to the extent possible.
    • Provides support for special events, new phase openings, emergencies, contractor activities, testing and any other activities which impact revenue service.
    • Manages shift resources to include: work assignments, training and other duties as assigned.
  • Culture Leader
    • Coaches and mentors the Rail Traffic Controllers. Dedicates time to developing the technical and managerial talent of the Rail Traffic Controllers.
  • Strategic Leader
    • Acts as a strategic partner to ROCC senior leadership. Assists in developing, implementing and modifying rail operating procedures and techniques (as necessary) to ensure that operations are conducted efficiently, safely, and in alignment with accepted transit practices and guidelines.
    • Works closely with the Business Manager of Rail Traffic to ensure that Rail Traffic Controllers are adequately trained and prepared to fulfil their roles of promoting safety on the rail.
    • Uses performance data and risk information to continually work to improve ROCC operations and make Metrorail safer for Metro employees, contractors, and the traveling public.

Other Duties
  • Leads by example by following procedures, using checklists, and actively participating in meetings and trainings.
  • Promotes a culture of safety, accountability, and trust across the ROCC. Maintains strong working relationships with the Operations Managers, Maintenance Managers, and Information Managers. Supports comradery across all ROCC functions.
  • Completes administrative duties as the supervisor of the Rail Traffic Controllers. These include performance evaluations, one-on-one meetings, and timesheet approvals.
  • Provides necessary input into reports of incidents in accordance with ROCC procedures. Contributes information to be used for After-Action Reports, safety investigations, learning or disciplinary matters.
  • Maintains and promotes awareness and accountability with safety policies and procedures while performing job functions. Promotes a positive safety culture and encourages reporting of safety concerns consistent with our Agency Safety Plan, other regulatory requirements within the Safety Management System and just culture principles.

The functions listed are not intended to limit specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Nor is it intended to limit in any way the right of managers and supervisors to assign, direct and control the work of employees under their supervision.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Knowledge
  • Knowledge of how to use computers and comfort with learning new applications and programs.
  • Knowledge of signals systems, the principles of signal layout and interlocking track circuit authority associated with rapid rail transit systems.
  • Knowledge of high voltage protection and transformer equipment in voltage classes up to 35.5 KV.
  • Knowledge of WMATA Rail Stations by name and alpha-numeric identification. Working knowledge able to identify WMATA switches and signals.
  • Knowledge of operations and maintenance of WMATA systems.
  • Experience working in a control center and knowledge of control center operations.

Skills
  • Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with individuals, and interacting courteously and effectively with others.
  • Skill in communicating effectively, both orally and in writing. Values and exhibits brevity when relaying critical information that relates to safety and incident response.
  • Skilled at analyzing conditions expeditiously and accurately and interpreting schematics, wiring diagrams, and related technical documentation to allow appropriate assignment of maintenance personnel and follow through of actions taken.
  • Attention to detail, with both organizational and time management tasks.
  • Skilled at effectively managing risks and navigating high-risk situations
  • Skilled at leading and directing others through routine situations as well as incident responses.
  • Skilled at effectively giving constructive feedback and coaching individuals to develop their talent.
  • Possesses the skills to explain complex problems simply and clearly to others.
  • Skilled at accurately documenting events that occurred during incidents, accidents, and/or special events and converting into concise, well-written, grammatically correct reports.

Abilities
  • Ability to demonstrates a level of emotional intelligence that includes an understanding of procedural fairness, objectivity, and recognition of human fallibility.
  • Possesses a level of emotional maturity and is able to take responsibility and learn from past mistakes.
  • Comfortable in addressing difficult issues and making decisions with potentially large consequences.
  • Able to multitask and prioritize all tasks within a fast-paced work environment.
  • Ability to establish working relationships and liaise with individuals and organizations with whom interface is required
  • Ability to view departmental long-term vision and provide benefit to work group and the Authority.
  • Ability to clarify ambiguous scenarios and information for self and others.
  • Ability to evaluate facts thoroughly, exercise good judgment, take appropriate actions to address issues.
  • Ability to maintain constant alertness and situational awareness to work effectively with others, make sound decisions, and develop strategies to overcome operational problems under stressful conditions in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work independently and/or with minimal supervision and to formulate solutions and address operational issues.
  • Ability to be available 24 hours/7 days a week unless approved time off has been granted.
  • Ability to exercise prudent and timely judgment in normal situations and incident response.
  • Able to obtain and maintain the ROCC RTC Certification.
  • Ability to instill trust among a group of individuals that will help them collaborate more effectively.

Machine, Tools, Equipment, Software, Hardware Required
  • Personal Computer
  • MS Office Software

Supervisory Responsibility
Supervises work of others, including planning, assigning and scheduling work, reviewing work and ensuring quality standards, training staff and overseeing their productivity. May offer recommendations for hiring, termination and pay adjustments, but does not have responsibility for making these decisions.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Business Administration, Operations Management or related field of study
    • In lieu of a Bachelor's degree, a High School Diploma and four (4) years of control center or similar operational work experience will be considered (in addition to experience stated below)

Minimum Experience
  • A minimum of four (4) years of relevant work experience to include:
    • At least 1 of those years in a control center or similar operational environment

Minimum Certification/Licensure
  • RTC Certification within 1 year of hire

Preferred Qualifications
  • Preferred: WMATA Rail Operations Control Center (ROCC) experience
  • Preferred: Extensive rail operations and control center expertise
  • Preferred: Active Metrorail RTC Certification
  • Master's degree in Business Management, Business Administration, Operations Management or related field of study

ABOUT US
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), known as Metro, is the region's leading public transportation provider. Serving a 2,054-square-mile jurisdiction, Metro operates six rail lines, 98 stations, 126 bus routes, and Metro Access, a shared-ride paratransit service. As one of the nation's busiest transit systems, Metro connects communities, supports economic growth, and provides safe, reliable transportation.
Evaluation Criteria
Consideration will be given to applicants whose resumes demonstrate the required education and experience. Applicants should include all relevant education and work experience.
Evaluation criteria may include one or more of the following:
  • Skills and/or behavioral assessment
  • Personal interview
  • Verification of education and experience (including certifications and licenses)
  • Criminal Background Check (a criminal conviction is not an automatic bar to employment)
  • Medical examination including a drug and alcohol screening (for safety sensitive positions)
  • Review of a current motor vehicle report

Closing
WMATA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by applicable federal law.
This posting is an announcement of a vacant position under recruitment. It is not intended to replace the official job description. Job descriptions are available upon confirmation of an interview.

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