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Rail Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... rail operations. JOB FUNCTIONS AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Plan and manage tank car loops to proactively meet supply & demand targets • Schedule shipments to meet production forecasts and ...

Rail Supervisor - Trainee

Seattle, WA · On-site

$49.96 - $52.90/hr

Overseeing rail operations in the field, interfacing with Rail Operators, responding to incidents, and ensuring safe and on-time delivery of service. Communications Specialist: Managing ...

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Rail Operations Manager information

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$31K

$63.5K

$118.5K

How much do rail operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail operations manager in the United States is $63,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $77,500.00 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 are the main challenges Rail Operations Managers typically face 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 Rail Operations Managers?

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 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.

More about Rail Operations Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Operations Manager jobs? Cities with the most Rail Operations Manager job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Rail Operations Manager jobs? The top employers for Rail Operations Manager jobs are:
What states have the most Rail Operations Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Operations Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rail Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, and 92% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,456 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Rail Analyst

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Targa Resources rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Rail Analyst will support Targa Resources' natural gas liquids (NGL) rail logistics by monitoring railcar movements, validating shipment data, coordinating with internal and external partners, and ensuring accurate execution of rail-related commercial and operational activities. The position blends logistics support, data validation, reporting, and cross functional communication to help ensure efficient and compliant rail operations.
JOB FUNCTIONS AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Plan and manage tank car loops to proactively meet supply & demand targets
• Schedule shipments to meet production forecasts and customer needs
• Prepare and distribute daily shipping status reports highlighting timing issues
• Support scheduling teams to ensure timely and accurate execution of rail shipments. Expedite rail shipments to destination including daily management of car location and daily problem solving
• Ensure data integrity of rail tracking tools & solve issues as they arise
• Ensure all rail transactions comply with commercial terms and internal controls including validating rail BOLs to ensure shipment documentation accuracy
• Communicate frequently with commercial, scheduling, accounting, and operations teams
• Respond to customer requests for estimated arrival times, bills of lading, outage tables and other information
• Perform routine reconciliation of rail activity and maintain metrics to identify trends, inefficiencies, or risks related to rail volumes, rail freight rates, and performance
• Prepare analytical data for management of detention, demurrage and fleet metrics (including utilization) to manage rail fleet costs
• Provide input for rail service discussions with railroads
• Work with management to implement annual rail maintenance plan
• Work with leasing companies to maintain railcar fleet and any other lease related projects as needed
• Enter, update, and track rail segment deals in Right Angle
• Coordinate with Contract Administration to set up new business associates
• Understand and apply relevant regulations (DOT, OSHA, FRA, rail safety standards)
• Support safe loading, unloading, and handling of railcars when interacting with field operations
• Other duties as assigned
MINIMUM ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Supply Chain, or related field
• Strong analytical and organizational skills
• Proficiency with Excel and other Microsoft 365 tools
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced logistics environment
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Experience in Oil & Gas, NGL logistics, or rail transportation
• Familiarity with systems such as Right Angle (S21) or other logistics/accounting platforms
• Experience with reconciliation, P&L reporting, or rail operations
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
Targa Resources provides equal employment opportunities based on merit, experience, and other work-related criteria and without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We also strive to provide reasonable accommodation to employees' beliefs and practices that do not conflict with Targa's policies and applicable law. We value the unique contributions that every employee brings to their role with Targa.