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Rail Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hatch

US Rail Operations Lead

White River Junction, VT · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

As US Rail Operations Lead, you will: * Serve as project manager and lead teams in executing technical projects and producing technical deliverables. Example studies that you may lead include ...

Hatch

US Rail Operations Lead

White River Junction, VT · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

As US Rail Operations Lead, you will: * Serve as project manager and lead teams in executing technical projects and producing technical deliverables. Example studies that you may lead include ...

Hatch

US Rail Operations Lead

White River Junction, VT · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

As US Rail Operations Lead, you will: * Serve as project manager and lead teams in executing technical projects and producing technical deliverables. Example studies that you may lead include ...

Methanex

Senior Rail Operations Coordinator

Houston, TX · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

Position Summary The Senior Rail Operations Coordinator will be primarily responsible for executing the railcar fleet and positioning strategy for Methanex North America Marketing & Logistics.

Methanex

Senior Rail Operations Coordinator

Houston, TX

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

Position Summary The Senior Rail Operations Coordinator will be primarily responsible for executing the railcar fleet and positioning strategy for Methanex North America Marketing & Logistics.

Clean Harbors

Director of Rail Operations

Norwell, MA · On-site

$264K/yr

The Director of Rail Operations is responsible for the oversight of all rail transportation. The Director is responsible for safely moving lubricating oil and specialty products from multiple re ...

CleanHarbors

Director of Rail Operations

Norwell, MA · On-site

The Director of Rail Operations is responsible for leading the strategic planning, operations, and performance management of a rail network, integrating advanced transportation management systems ...

Hallcon

Senior Manager Rail Operations

Chicago, IL · On-site

Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key corporate railroad clients, including operations executives and stakeholders * Manage and own key client books of business, including safety ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Louisville, KY to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, ...

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Rail Operations information

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How much do rail operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operations in the United States is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.64 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 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 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.

More about Rail Operations jobs

What cities are hiring for Rail Operations jobs?

Cities with the most Rail Operations job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Operations jobs?

The most popular types of Rail Operations jobs are:

What states have the most Rail Operations jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rail Operations jobs include:

Rail Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,239 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

US Rail Operations Lead

Hatch

White River Junction, VT • On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Requisition ID: 100774
Job Category: Infrastructure; Consulting; Engineering; Project Engineering
Location: White River Junction, VT, United States
Join a company that is passionately committed to the pursuit of a better world through positive change. With more than 70 years of business and technical expertise in mining, energy, and infrastructure, our 10,000 colleagues in 150 countries tirelessly work toward bettering the industries in which we operate. With practical solutions that are safe, innovative and sustainable, we think globally while acting locally. Are you looking for an opportunity to join a diverse group of professionals who are committed to remaining exceptional? We look forward to hearing from you.
Our expertise in infrastructure includes aviation, highways and bridges, planning and advisory services, ports, rail and transit, tunnels, and water. Want to be part of the creation and construction of our cities? Then the infrastructure team is for you!
Hatch, one of the nation's most respected consultants to the railroad and rail transit industries is seeking a Rail Operations Lead in our White River Junction, VT office to join our growing team.
As US Rail Operations Lead, you will:
  • Serve as project manager and lead teams in executing technical projects and producing technical deliverables. Example studies that you may lead include analyses of travel time, rail system capacity, network improvements, traction power system performance and control line optimization.
  • Manage the development of new work with clients
  • Support O&M Cost modeling work.
  • Travel to client sites and attend conferences.
  • Author technical reports, mentor junior staff, and perform quality reviews.

You bring to the role:
  • At least 10 years' practical industry experience in rail operations, including service planning, feasibility studies, and alternatives evaluation.
  • Experience in leading business development efforts, bids, and proposals.
  • Prior experience and knowledge of using rail simulation software such as Berkeley Simulation Systems' RTC, or OpenTrack is desired but not required.
  • Experience in fleet planning and O&M cost estimates.
  • Experience with rail operating rules development/interpretation and/or transportation systems management is desirable.
  • Broad interdisciplinary knowledge of rail systems, including power, track, signals, operations, scheduling, and vehicles.)
  • Excellent written and oral communications skills, including the ability to engage with clients and public stakeholders
  • Willingness to travel
  • Ability to work well in a team that is passionately committed to the pursuit of positive change.

Why join us?
  • Work with great people to make a difference
  • Collaborate on exciting projects to develop innovative solutions
  • Top employer
  • The opportunity to shape the future of transporation
  • Contribute to projects which reduce global carbon-emissions and congestion

What we offer you?
  • Engaging work environment
  • Long term career development
  • Think globally, work locally
  • Great benefits
  • Profit Sharing

Don't meet every single requirement? You don't need to. At Hatch, we are building a diverse, inclusive workplace that fosters innovation. If you're interested in this role, we encourage you to apply even if your past experiences don't perfectly align with the skills we've listed.
We're committed to fostering a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we operate and serve. Hatch is an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants without regard to age, race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran, or any other protected status. If you have any accommodation requirements, please let us know. We'll do our best to meet your needs in accordance with applicable local legislation.
Base Compensation: $110,000 - $140,000 (Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)
Hatch is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to meet the diverse needs of our employees. This includes:
  • Health and Welfare benefits: Top-tier medical coverage (one plan with no employee premium required), prescription drug, dental, vision; flexible spending accounts and a health savings account (with a generous employer contribution); life, accident, and disability insurance; employee assistance program (EAP), employee wellness program
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer match of 50% per dollar up to 6%, fully vested after three years; additional 3% in profit-sharing contribution after one year of employment (immediately vested)
  • Paid Time Away from Work: 3-4 weeks of vacation based on experience and company discretion, prorated in the 1st year based on hire date (up to 2.5 weeks can be carried over per year); 10 paid holidays; 10 sick days per calendar year, with the ability to carry-over sick time to a maximum of 40 days to be used for future FMLAqualifying events; Partial Paid Parental leave up to 12 weeks for birth parents and 4 weeks for non-birth parents

The benefits listed above apply to US-based, full-time permanent applicants only. Hatch reserves the right to change plans at its discretion.

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