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Rail Operations Manager Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

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 ...

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Rail Operations Manager information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$31.3K

$64K

$119.6K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in Philadelphia, PA is $64,033.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $78,200.00 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 Philadelphia, PA?

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

What job categories do people searching Rail Operations Manager jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Operations Manager jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Rail Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Rail Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Rail Operations Manager job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,638 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Maintenance Manager (2010) - Metro Rail Shops - City Transit.

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)

Philadelphia, PA

$73K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Secure Your Future with SEPTA - A Leader in Transportation!

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth-largest transportation system in the U.S., connecting communities across a 2,200-square-mile service region. SEPTA is at the forefront of innovation in the transit industry, ensuring reliable and efficient services while driving economic growth in the Philadelphia region.

We are proud to be recognized as:

2023 FORBES Best in State Employer

Philadelphia Employer of Choice for 2024

We are seeking to hire candidates for our Maintenance Manager (2010) - Metro Rail Shops - City Transit..    

Opening Date: 08/18/2026

Closing Date: 09/01/2026

Job Grade: SAM 38

Salary Range: $73,164.00-$91,442.00

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

Responsible for effective supervision of maintenance personnel and oversees location operations.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

VEM Rail Operations

NOTE: MAY INCLUDE 2 OR MORE DISCIPLINES

I. General  Maintenance Manager Disciplines

  1. Manages a group of employees with minimum direction, schedules the work to maximize economic, efficient, and safe work standards and to promote continuous improvement in safety, reliability and customer satisfaction.
  2. Responsible for major rail vehicle overhaul and minor refurbishment programs including preventative maintenance, inspection and failure diagnosis/analysis.
  3. Responsible for controlling labor and material expenditures to comply with budgetary limitations. Also, issues material requisitions.
  4. Communicates with Union personnel and other supervisors to coordinate work activities, etc.
  5. Maintains accurate records on requisitions, work/employee schedules and reports to reduce waste and loss of manpower.
  6. Responsible for providing technical assistance and support in the repair and/or maintenance of rail vehicles and equipment.
  7. Monitors and evaluates the performance and skill levels of various types of technical and service personnel.
  8. Implements Authority practices and policies consistent with "good industrial practice".
  9. Develops cost effective maintenance practices for implementation throughout operations.
  10. Plans and forecasts material and labor needs consistent with operating requirements within depots.
  11. Responsible for collecting data on units/repairs to tract reliability, and perform trend analysis.
  12. Assists Engineering in various design changes in an effort to improve rail vehicles and customer service issues.
  13. Responsible for maintaining a safe, clean and productive environment.
  14. Responsible for instructing, training, and testing newly transferred and hired employees.
  15. Ensures fair treatment and equal opportunity for all employees in the section/department.
  16. Complies with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures, as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises, or hazards in the hazards affecting self and other employees is responsible for the individual's own safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
  17. Performs other duties as assigned.
DISCIPLINE RESPONSIBILITIES

VEM Rail Operations (Specific Disciplines)

A.   Electrical/Electronic Disciplines

  1. Supervises the troubleshooting, diagnosing, repair and maintenance of electronic/electrical equipment and systems for revenue rail vehicles, non-revenue equipment, circuit boards and other related component parts.
  2. Directs and monitors the maintenance and preventive maintenance on electrical/ electronic equipment, replacing and repairing, re-fabricating, and rebuilding all parts.
  3. Implements, operates, and maintains procedures for testing equipment, also provides proper calibration schedules and guidelines.
  4. Evaluates existing prints, schematics, etc. Works with Engineering to get documents updated so they can be reissued using the ECN system.
  5. Investigates modifications to improve reliability of troublesome units and maintains accurate and thorough failure data to perform trend analysis.
  6. Validates repairs to meet acceptable standards for workmanship.

B.  Body Disciplines

  1. Provides technical assistance and support in the body repair of damaged rail vehicles. Must be familiar with state-of-the-art repair and measuring techniques.
  2. Responsible for scheduling collision repair activities and processes work orders for sheet metal shop fabrication jobs. Must ensure vehicle integrity and crash worthiness of collision repairs.
  3. Inspects and prepares damage estimates for collision vehicles.
  4. Oversees all body, sheet metal and painting work assignments.
DISCIPLINE RESPONSIBILITIES

VEM Rail Operations (Specific Disciplines)

C. Machine Shop/Truck Overhaul Disciplines

  1. Supervises all machine shop activities, ensuring that rail vehicle wheels and axles meet required standards.
  2. Supervises the rebuilding of rail car trucks and component making in accordance with quality standards and schedules.

D. Running Repair/Yard Discipline

  1. Supervises inspections and minor repairs to rolling stock.
  2. Responsible for providing sufficient, clean, reliable, and safe rail vehicles for revenue service.
  3. Supervises cleaning of rail vehicles.
  4. Must be familiar with all applicable FRA regulations.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

VEM Rail Operations "All Areas"

  • Three (3) years relevant Vehicle Maintenance experience required.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent, plus two (2) years advanced technical training in field of specialization. 
  • In lieu of two (2) years technical training, four (4) additional years of relevant Vehicle Maintenance experience may be considered; however, advanced technical training may be required for some positions. 
  • Familiar working in a unionized environment.
  • Must possess acceptable attendance, performance and safety records.
  • Valid Driver's License required.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills required.
IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

VEM Bus and Rail

  • Mainframe or PC experience preferred.
  • Supervisor experience preferred.
  • Familiarity with labor agreements and SEPTA policies and procedures preferred.
Why Join Our Team? Enjoy Outstanding Benefits!

Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage - Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.

Retirement Security - Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.

Work-Life Balance - Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.

 Employee Wellness - Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Invest in Your Growth - We offer tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.

Student Loan Assistance - Our positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.

Free Travel Perks - Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services!

Join us and take advantage of these incredible benefits while making a difference in your community! Join the Best in Transit! Apply Today

 Click Apply Now and take the next step in your career with SEPTA!

 Have Questions? For more information, please visit How We Hire Careers Page.

 SEPTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.