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Rail Operations Manager Jobs in Rustburg, VA (NOW HIRING)

Operations Reports to: Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL ... Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, valid Driver's License Slots - 1+ year experience ...

Rail Operations Manager information

See Rustburg, VA salary details

$26.5K

$54.3K

$101.3K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in Rustburg, VA is $54,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,100.00 and $66,300.00 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.

Machine Operator 1, TSO

Loram

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Loram rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

This post is also available in: Portuguese (Brazil)
DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Machine Operator 1
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Department: Operations
Reports to: Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent
GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE:
Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a field based position, is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing company railway maintenance and inspection equipment. This position can operate Loram's on track MOW equipment and/or on track vehicles with supervision in both operating and travel modes. In this role you may be assigned to various types of equipment platforms dependent on business needs and demands.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Safety Focused
  • Ability to lead a comprehensive and appropriate job briefing during operations shifts, maintenance shifts, and while conducting maintenance tasks.
  • Consistently follows safe work processes, procedures and rules
  • Understands on track safety and can explain specifics when asked
  • Able to locate all emergency equipment and demonstrate correct operation

Machine Operations and Technical Knowledge
  • Conducts machine inspections to identify problems, defects, changes, and hazards and communicates conditions to the operator or supervisor and performs common repairs as instructed. Provides accurate feedback that allows machine leadership to make maintenance decisions
  • Accurately records and reports common parts used to supervisor, including floor stock
  • Performs maintenance and repairs according to set schedules and policies
  • Accurately describes gauge and HMI functions as they relate to machine operation
  • Demonstrates the ability to document and complete daily field reporting, personal expense reporting, field lodging, and other administrative reporting as necessary

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES:
  • Safety Awareness
  • Values Based
  • Learning on the Fly
  • Action Oriented
  • Listening
  • Personal Learning

This post is also available in: Portuguese (Brazil)
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience:
Internal: 3+ Months Experience working with Loram equipment or equivalent in a 24/7 environment; Some assignments require Excavator experience. Meet all relevant or applicable pre-qualifications as noted in the general description for this role and Loram's career development matrix.
External: 2+ Years Demonstrated technical skills such as mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and machine operations. 2+ Years Demonstrated ability to learn communicate verbally and in writing and learn best practices
Licenses/Certifications: Maintain Railroad Certifications, CPR/First Aid, valid Driver's License
Slots - 1+ year experience Heavy equipment operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or alike). Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment maintenance. Basic administration computer skills. Working knowledge of data systems and remote equipment operations cellar or tethered.
Aurora - Minimum of 1 year computer or technology background. 1 year of working knowledge working with MS Windows. Preferred radiation experience. Commercial Driver's License or able to obtain a Class B.
PREEMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:
  • This position requires successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination and role-specific assessments. Components may include DOT Physical Exam, Regulated (DOT) DS/BAT, Human Performance Evaluation (HPE), and Audiogram.
  • Position requires successful completion of an eVerifile/eRailSafe background check as required by Loram's railroad customers. Ongoing eligibility is subject to compliance with eRailSafe standards.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. A Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check will be conducted upon hire and annually thereafter in accordance with Loram's Driving Policy.
  • Successfully pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • 100% travel, including international, using any method of transportation.
  • Ability to apply high levels of cognitive, analytical, retention and reasoning.
  • Excellent communication skills used within any social context.
  • Can stand, sit, walk, reach, balance, stoop, kneel, hear, taste and smell.
  • Can see up close, distances, colors and has use of peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Can tolerate variable and sometimes extreme physical conditions during visits or inspections of company equipment in a railroad environment.

Loram determines compensation based on factors such as skills, competencies, education, and/or experience. Certain positions may be eligible for an annual bonus and paid time off in addition to base compensation.
Starting pay for the position is between $20.00 - $21.00
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Loram is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and respectful workplace. We make all employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business need, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws in the countries where we operate, including the Equality Act 2010 in the UK, relevant U.S. federal, state, and local laws, Brazil's anti-discrimination provisions under the Consolidation of Labor Laws (CLT) and Federal Constitution, India's Equal Remuneration Act and Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, Australia's Fair Work Act 2009 and applicable state and territory legislation, and Canada's human rights protections under the Canadian Human Rights Act and applicable provincial or territorial laws.
Benefits:
Benefits for this role include a comprehensive package with company-sponsored medical, dental, and vision insurance; Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options; wellness programs; basic life and AD&D insurance; voluntary life insurance; company paid short-term and long-term disability coverage; 401(k) retirement plan including an employer match of 150% up to the first 6% you contribute to the Plan; Employee Assistance Program (EAP); behavioral health support; and leaves of absence. Additional benefits include tuition reimbursement, payroll charity contributions, adoption assistance and optional plans such as legal, critical illness, and hospitalization.
Compensation:
Loram determines compensation based on factors such as skills, competencies, education, and/or experience. Certain positions may be eligible for an annual bonus and paid time off in addition to base compensation.
The pay range for this position is between $41,600-$56,300
This post is also available in: Portuguese (Brazil)
ABOUT
Loram Maintenance of Way, Inc. is a global leader in track maintenance technology, services, and solutions for the railway industry. For over 70 years, Loram has delivered industry-leading innovation through cutting-edge rail grinding, ballast maintenance, and inspection systems - ensuring safer, more reliable, and cost-effective rail operations for customers worldwide.
Headquartered in Hamel, Minnesota, Loram operates in multiple locations across North America and supports Class I, regional, and commuter railroads with a full suite of services. Loram is known for its strong engineering culture, commitment to safety, and dedication to improving the performance of rail infrastructure through advanced technology and field-proven expertise.
Join a company that moves the world - and builds the future of rail.

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