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Rail Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CalmHR Inc

Railcar Mover/Spotter

Emporia, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Communicate with crew members using radios and hand signals. * Assist with switching operations and rail yard organization. * Learn to safely operate Shuttlewagon equipment and locomotives. * Follow ...

STG Logistics

CDL A - Owner Operator

Norfolk, VA

If you're looking for consistent container freight, competitive rates, and a local team that understands port and rail operations, STG Drayage has opportunities ready now. Why Owner-Operators Choose ...

RailPros

$17 - $18/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... Joining RailPros as an AMF provides exposure to various aspects of railroad operations, safety ...

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All JobsRail Operations JobsRail Operations Jobs in Virginia

Rail Operations information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$23

$48

How much do rail operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operations in Virginia is $23.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are rail operations?

Rail operations refer to the management and coordination of train movements and services within a railway network. This includes scheduling trains, ensuring safe and efficient transportation of passengers or freight, monitoring track usage, and responding to emergencies or disruptions. Professionals in rail operations work to maintain punctuality, safety, and smooth functioning of all railway activities. The field can involve roles such as train dispatchers, controllers, and operations managers.

What is the difference between Rail Operations vs Rail Conductors?

AspectRail OperationsRail Conductors
Primary RoleOversees train movements, scheduling, and safety protocolsManages passenger boarding, ticketing, and safety onboard trains
Required CertificationsRailroad operating certificates, safety trainingConductor certification, safety and first aid training
Work EnvironmentTrain yards, control centers, on the trainOnboard trains, stations, and depots
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transit agencies, freight companiesPassenger rail services, commuter trains

Rail Operations professionals focus on managing train movements and safety systems, often working behind the scenes or in control centers. Rail Conductors primarily handle passenger interactions, safety onboard, and ticketing. While both roles require safety certifications and work within the rail industry, Rail Operations is more centered on train logistics, whereas Rail Conductors focus on passenger service and onboard safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Rail Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Rail Operations, you need strong knowledge of railway systems, safety regulations, logistics, and often a relevant qualification or certification in transportation or rail operations. Familiarity with train control systems, scheduling software, and safety management platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing schedules and ensuring safety. These competencies are essential to maintain efficient rail service, uphold safety standards, and respond swiftly to operational challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Rail Operations, and how can they be addressed?

Rail Operations professionals often encounter challenges such as coordinating train schedules to minimize delays, ensuring safety compliance, and managing unexpected disruptions like equipment failures or weather-related issues. Addressing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, effective communication with team members, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Many organizations provide comprehensive training and utilize advanced technology to support decision-making, helping staff maintain smooth and safe operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Operations jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Rail Operations jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Rail Operations jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Rail Operations job openings:
Rail Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operations job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Full Time, 68% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,808 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Emergency Rail Operations Technician (CDL-A)

Qualdoc

Richmond, VA

$26/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Emergency Rail Operations Technician (CDL-A)

Location: Richmond, VA
Job Type: Direct Hire
Rate: Starts at $26.00/Hour can be higher depending on experience

Position Overview

We are currently seeking dependable and safety-focused Emergency Rail Operations Technicians to support transportation, equipment operation, and field services related to railroad infrastructure and incident response activities.

This position combines CDL-A driving responsibilities with hands-on field work, including equipment mobilization, track-related projects, heavy equipment operation, and emergency response assignments. Successful candidates must be comfortable working outdoors, traveling when required, and responding to time-sensitive situations at all hours.

This is a full-time direct hire opportunity offering competitive pay, extensive overtime opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Schedule & Availability
  • Guaranteed 40 hours per week
  • Overtime opportunities frequently available (average 60+ hours per week)
  • Must be available for emergency callouts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays
Compensation & Travel Benefits
  • Starting wage of $26.00 per hour or higher, based on qualifications and experience
  • Time-and-a-half pay for hours worked outside the standard Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:00 PM schedule
  • Per diem provided during qualifying travel assignments
  • Hotel accommodations covered when traveling
  • Layover compensation available when applicable
Essential Responsibilities
Transportation & Equipment Logistics
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections on commercial vehicles, trailers, and equipment
  • Transport equipment, materials, and machinery to project sites using CDL-A vehicles
  • Inspect loads and verify securement prior to transport
  • Review and verify permits associated with oversized or overweight loads
Field Operations
  • Participate in daily job planning meetings and safety briefings
  • Assist with equipment staging, loading, unloading, and site setup activities
  • Support rail-related recovery operations, material transfers, and track construction or maintenance projects
  • Secure equipment and materials following completion of assignments
  • Assist with site cleanup and restoration efforts
Equipment Operation & Support
  • Operate heavy equipment when qualified, including:
    • Excavators
    • Backhoes
    • Cranes
    • Dump trucks
    • Grapple trucks
    • Skid steers
    • Additional construction and specialty equipment
  • Assist with crane setup, inspection, assembly, and teardown activities
  • Support rigging operations utilizing chains, cables, slings, and winches
  • Utilize hydraulic, electrical, welding, cutting, and hand tools as required
Maintenance & Safety
    • Monitor equipment condition and operational readiness
    • Perform basic preventive maintenance and document completed work
    • Report mechanical concerns requiring advanced repairs
    • Replenish vehicles and equipment with necessary tools, parts, and supplies
    • Maintain organized workspaces, equipment, and vehicles
    • Follow all company safety procedures, operational standards, and regulatory requirements
    • Assist other departments and project teams as business needs require
Required Qualifications
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A)
  • Safe driving history and ability to meet company driving standards
  • Experience performing physically demanding work in construction, industrial, transportation, or similar environments
  • Ability to successfully complete required training, certification programs, and qualification testing
  • Willingness to respond to emergency callouts on a 24/7 basis
Preferred Skills/Experience
  • Three or more years of heavy equipment operating experience
  • Experience operating equipment such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, front-end loaders, grapple trucks, tractors, skid steers, or similar machinery
  • Previous railroad, rail maintenance, track construction, or recovery operation experience is highly desirable
Pre-Employment Requirements
  • Drug screen
  • Background check
Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020

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