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Rail Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

MACHINING OPERATOR

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such excessive vibration and adjust machines ... Mechanical aptitude and prior industrial experience a plus Why Choose Amsted Rail Petersburg?

Forging Specialist

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Set up and program robots, loading/unloading devices, equipment for proper operation * Lead ... Mechanical aptitude and prior industrial experience required Why Choose Amsted Rail Petersburg?

Shift Lead - Machining

Petersburg, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... quality operations. The successful Shift Lead will demonstrate strong communication and ... Follow plant-wide safety, ergonomics, and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail and ...

Heat Treat Operator - Nights

Petersburg, VA

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Adhere to safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements, defined by Amsted Rail; outlined by the Amsted Rail Health & Safety program. * Perform all necessary operations related to heat treating a ...

ASSEMBLY OPERATOR/MATERIAL HANDLER

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operation functions. Assembly produces, inspects, and assembles precision bearing parts to meet the customer's expectations and Amsted Rail procedures and standards. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS To accomplish ...

ASSEMBLY OPERATOR/MATERIAL HANDLER

Petersburg, VA

$16.50 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operation functions. Assembly produces, inspects, and assembles precision bearing parts to meet the customer's expectations and Amsted Rail procedures and standards. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS To accomplish ...

Machinist

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail ... Show a basic understanding of computer operations/skills * Completion of the Machinist ...

FORGE OPERATOR

Petersburg, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Understand operational sequences and dimensions of finished work pieces * Maintain strong ... Mechanical aptitude and prior industrial experience a plus Why Choose Amsted Rail Petersburg?

MACHINING OPERATOR

Petersburg, VA

$16.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such excessive vibration and adjust machines ... Mechanical aptitude and prior industrial experience a plus Why Choose Amsted Rail Petersburg?

Showing results 41-60

Rail Operations information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$23

$48

How much do rail operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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:

Infographic showing various Rail Operations job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,808 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

MACHINING OPERATOR

Amsted Rail

Petersburg, VA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Amsted Rail rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

176th of 489 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Machining Operator operates and maintains a CNC Machining Line to perform multiple ID and OD machining functions on metal work pieces. Produces precision parts applying knowledge of procedures to meet the customer's expectations and Amsted Rail procedures and standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily with or without accommodation.

  • Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail; outlined by the Amsted Rail Health & Safety program
  • Measure dimensions of processed work pieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using gauges, in accordance with the departmental quality plan
  • Check condition of work for defects
  • Assist Setup personnel with changing over of work, attachments for various work lines/cells
  • Select and safely use hand and power tools
  • Lift machine components and position manually or with hoists or cranes
  • Monitor transfer conveyors for proper operation
  • Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such excessive vibration and adjust machines to compensate for problems
  • Adjust machine parameters using manual or automatic settings, change or adjust machine controls when machines malfunction or parts fall out of conformance
  • Record production run information in the company computer system
  • Understand operational sequences and dimensions of finished work pieces
  • Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration and adjust machines to compensate for problems
  • Operate a forklift to stage and move work bins to internal customers
  • Other duties as requested

Department Specific Functions:

  • Select program into machine control units to start operation
  • Perform preventative maintenance tasks on equipment
  • Troubleshoot part compliance and equipment problems
  • Verify alignment using measurement instructions/tools/gauges, measuring dimensions of finished work pieces, ensure conformance to specifications, using
  • Adjust tooling, cutting tools, or machine controls when needed
  • Perform machine set-ups, robots or transfer conveyors

To be considered a candidate must be able to meet the following qualifications:

  • Successfully pass a pre-employment drug & background screening
  • Lift, push & pull 10 to 50 lbs.
  • Wear department required, employer provided, personal protection equipment (PPE)
  • Be able to regularly stand and move throughout the department and shift
  • Mechanical aptitude and prior industrial experience a plus

Why Choose Amsted Rail Petersburg?

  • Employee Ownership: Annual stock awards (10% of compensation)
  • 401(k) Match: Up to 4% dollar-for-dollar
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA with company contributions, life insurance, disability coverage, and pet insurance available after 30 days
  • Competitive Pay: Competitive hourly rate considering prior experience, plus annual bonus eligibility potential
  • Career Growth: On the job training, pay for skill, and advancement opportunities
  • Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at 3 weeks of PTO, 11 paid holidays
  • Additional Offerings: Tuition Reimbursement, Referral Bonuses, Employee Discount Programs

Amsted Rail’s commitment to Affirmative Action:

Amsted Rail is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To review our EEO Policies or to request assistance please go to www.amstedrail.com/careers/ and select EEO Compliance/Statements. To learn more about us, please visit us online at www.amstedrail.com.

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    About Amsted Rail

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Amsted Rail is a global leader in providing innovative solutions and components for the rail industry. With a strong commitment to advancing rail technology and improving safety, Amsted Rail offers a wide range of products and services that enhance the performance and reliability of rail systems worldwide. As a trusted partner to railroads, transit systems, and freight operators, Amsted Rail specializes in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of high-quality freight car components, including bogies, couplers, wheelsets, and braking systems. Amsted cutting-edge solutions are engineered to withstand the demands of heavy-duty rail operations, improving efficiency, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing overall railcar performance.

    Industry

    Transportation equipment manufacturing

    Company size

    1,001 - 5,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Chicago, IL, US

    Year founded

    1977