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Rail Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The busiest rail connection between New York, New Jersey, and the Northeast Corridor, the Hudson ... Ensure all parties are aligned on project schedules, operational requirements, and rail access ...

Rail Operations Supervisor Our Mission At VASCOR, we keep vehicles moving safely, efficiently, and on time. Our rail operations are the backbone of our service, connecting industries and communities ...

Monday-Friday with occasional overtime Build a Long-Term Career Keeping Rail Operations Moving Join Road & Rail Services as a Traveling Railcar Repairman/Carman and help keep rail equipment operating ...

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:

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:

Rail Loader

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Rail Worker Location: Lafayette, IN Shift: TBD Job Summary The Rail Worker is responsible for the ... Inspect railcars and equipment for safety and operational readiness before use. * Secure vehicles ...

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 ...

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 ...

Monday-Friday with occasional overtime Build a Long-Term Career Keeping Rail Operations Moving Join Road & Rail Services as a Traveling Railcar Repairman/Carman and help keep rail equipment operating ...

Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Midland to support daily rail operations at an industrial facility. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role critical ...

$78K - $130K/yr

Manages the daily operation of the Train Control Center and Rail Operations Controllers. Responsible for real time oversight and coordination of train movements and maintenance activities on Dart ...

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Rail Operations information

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$9

$24

$49

How much do rail operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 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 is the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically executive roles such as railroad presidents or chief operating officers, with salaries often exceeding six figures. Among operational roles, locomotive engineers and signal managers also earn high salaries, especially with experience and specialized certifications. These positions usually require extensive experience, technical skills, and sometimes advanced training or certifications.

What do rail operators do?

Rail operators are responsible for operating trains safely and efficiently, including controlling train movements, monitoring signals, and ensuring adherence to schedules. They often work in a control room or cab and require knowledge of safety procedures and communication tools. Certification and training are typically required for this role.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In rail operations, high-paying roles such as senior executives or specialized consultants can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry expertise, often involving oversight of large networks or strategic planning.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In rail operations, high-paying roles such as train conductors or dispatchers can sometimes reach $4,000 weekly, especially with experience and overtime. These jobs typically require specialized training or certifications but do not always require a college degree. Other high-paying roles in transportation or logistics may also offer similar wages without a degree, often based on skills and experience.

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Rail Operations job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,239 per year, or $24.2 per hour.
Stevedore II - Engineer/Conductor (Rail Operations)

Stevedore II - Engineer/Conductor (Rail Operations)

Akima, LLC

Fort Sill, OK • On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Akima rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

250th of 359 rated engineering


Job description

The Engineer/Conductor works under the supervision and at the direction of the Rail Operations Supervisor. The engineer/conductor is a railway professional responsible for the safe operation, security, and movement of a passenger or freight train. They manage crew, oversee cargo/passengers, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and coordinate with the engineer.
Responsibilities
  • Ensure the train operates within safety rules, managing speed restrictions, and handling emergency procedures in accordance with GCOR and ABTH.
  • Manages the makeup of the train, switching cars, and coordinates the movements in the rail yard and main lines.
  • Controls movement of engine and train by use of hand-held radios and hand signals with full responsibility for determining the next placement of engine and car, coordinating the whole train movement-spotting, re-spotting, and counting activities.
  • Break down train deliveries in yard, reclassifying, switching, and spotting cars to designated locations.
  • Maintains records such as location, time, and number of cars spotted (Conductor's car record book).
  • Build trains, switching, placement, and classification of cars and the safe operation of the train.
  • Instructs engineers and brakemen, as required, in the safety regulations and conveys orders to them on safety.
  • Instructs and inspects personnel on SDDC TEA MI 55-19, Tiedown Instructions for Rail Movements.
  • Performs organizational maintenance on locomotives as directed.
  • Performs preventive maintenance on track switches and grade crossings as required, for example the cleaning of leaves and other debris from switch points, oiling and greasing of switches and removing dirt and gravel from grade crossings.
  • Will be required to occasionally work an uncommon tour of duty including nights, weekends, and holidays at Fort Sill, OK and other remote sites such as Arkansas, Colorado, Texas, and Kansas.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • High School graduate or equivalent.
  • Minimum of two (2) years' experience as a Conductor.
  • Minimum of two (2) years' commercial railroad experience, and/or a minimum of three (3) years' government rail crew experience, or a valid locomotive engineer certification.
  • Must be able to successfully complete the Locomotive Engineer Certification and Recertification course and maintain Locomotive Operator's license.
  • Must be able to complete online Container Inspection for Commercial and Military Intermodal Containers, MIL HDBK 138A.
  • Must be able to obtain Forklift license for all equipment (4K to 50K).
  • Ability to pass Pre-Employment Drug Test and Background Screening.
  • Ability to receive a favorable TIER-1 investigation result, obtain and maintain a CAC.
  • Applicant must possess a REAL ID-compliant, state-issued driver's license.

Desired Qualifications:
  • A working knowledge of the General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), AR 56-3 Management of Army Rail Equipment, TC 55-88-1 Rail Handbook for Air brake and Train handling Rules, and TEA PAM 55-19 Tie-down Handbook for Rail Movements.
  • Preferred: A working knowledge of Diesel-Electric engines, electrical systems, air systems and other components specifically attributed to Locomotives.
  • Must be able to complete online Container Inspection for Commercial and Military Intermodal Containers, MIL HDBK 138A.
  • Attendance and award of 88U military occupational specialty preferred.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:
  • Lifting and Carrying: Frequently lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy objects, sometimes up to 83 pounds.
  • Mobility and Balance: Extensive walking (up to 10 kilometers a day), climbing up/down, bending, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.
  • Strength and Endurance: Using muscles for long periods, including working in cramped or awkward spaces.
  • Manual Task Operations: Operating manual switches, tying down handbrakes, and changing air hoses or gaskets.
  • Environmental Factors: Working in extreme hot or cold temperatures, in all weather conditions, and with exposure to loud noise or vibration.
  • Safety and Sensory Needs: Must possess good, sometimes aided, vision (including color distinction) and hearing, as well as the ability to climb on and off moving or stationary equipment.

Job ID
2026-23902
Work Type
On-Site
Company Description
Work Where it Matters
Akima Facilities Operations (AFO), an Akima company, is not just another federal facilities contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.
At AFO, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.
For our shareholders, AFO provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
For our government customers, AFO sustains mission readiness and ensures quality of life by maintaining high value assets and operations at peak performance and successfully manages these operations through accurately forecasting, managing, and aggressively controlling costs.
As an AFO employee, you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

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About Akima

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an Alaska Native Corporation headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Akima is dedicated to delivering superior outcomes for our customers’ missions while simultaneously creating a long-lived asset for our Iñupiat shareholders. Akima maintains a portfolio of small businesses, 8(a) companies, and operating companies that deliver simplified and accelerated access to the products and services agencies need to ensure mission success.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

1995

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