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Rail Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

Overview The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is ...

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

Overview The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is ...

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is maintained in ...

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

Overview The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is ...

Quantix SCS LLC

Rail Operator

Morris, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Description Job summary Rail Yard Operators are responsible for Safe movement and placement of Rail Cars, for communication with Rail Techs for Blue Flag clearance into loading locations as well ...

Quantix SCS LLC

Rail Operator

Rincon, GA · On-site

$21/hr

Description Job summary Rail Yard Operators are responsible for Safe movement and placement of Rail Cars, for communication with Rail Techs for Blue Flag clearance into loading locations as well ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Twin Eagle

Rail Operator (Douglas)

Douglas, WY · On-site

The Rail Operator oversees all functions of the rail operations and assists with loading and unloading of hazardous and non-hazardous liquids, and other dry bulk materials at the terminal. They are ...

Amrize

Rail Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

Rail Operator ABOUT THE ROLE Primarily responsible for driving trains safely from one destination to another within the site responsibilities. WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH * Successful and safe operation ...

Amrize

Rail Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

Rail Operator ABOUT THE ROLE Primarily responsible for driving trains safely from one destination to another within the site responsibilities. WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH * Successful and safe operation ...

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Rail Operator information

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$5

$22

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How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operator in the United States is $22.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail operator?

Rail operators are professionals responsible for operating trains and ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of passengers or freight along railway networks. Their duties typically include monitoring train controls, adhering to schedules, communicating with dispatchers, and following safety protocols. Rail operators play a critical role in maintaining the smooth operation of rail services and must undergo specialized training and certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Operator, you need a strong understanding of rail safety protocols, operational procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and sometimes certification in railway operations are important technical requirements. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and timely operation of trains, minimizing risks and service disruptions.

What are some common challenges faced by rail operators during their shifts?

Rail operators frequently encounter challenges such as managing unexpected delays, ensuring passenger safety during peak hours, and responding to equipment malfunctions or track obstructions. They must stay alert and follow strict protocols to maintain schedules and communicate effectively with control centers and other crew members. Adapting to changing weather conditions and handling emergency situations calmly are also essential aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Rail Operator vs Train Conductor?

AspectRail OperatorTrain Conductor
CredentialsDriver's license, safety certifications, train operation trainingSafety certifications, customer service training
Work EnvironmentCab of the train, control roomPassenger cars, station platforms
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, transit authoritiesRail companies, transit agencies
Primary ResponsibilitiesOperate and control train movementAssist passengers, ensure safety, manage tickets

While both roles are essential in rail transportation, the Rail Operator primarily focuses on operating the train and ensuring safe movement, whereas the Train Conductor handles passenger interactions and safety onboard. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the rail industry.

How much money does a rail operator make?

A rail operator's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Factors such as certifications, shift schedules, and the type of rail system can influence earnings.

What do you need to be a rail operator?

To become a rail operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and specialized training or certification in train operations. Good communication skills, the ability to operate train controls, and a clean safety record are also important requirements.
More about Rail Operator jobs

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Who are the top companies hiring for Rail Operator jobs?

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What states have the most Rail Operator jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Rail Operator jobs look for?

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What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs?

For Rail Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Rail Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,912 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Rail Operator

empirical foods, inc.

Garden City, KS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Empirical Foods rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Overview

The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is maintained in accordance to established safety standards and company guidelines that support the Rail Operator in carrying out their daily tasks.


Responsibilities

  • Responsible for monitoring and controlling the rail operation which includes equipment, people, and processes required to meet rail, production and sanitation schedules and requirements.
  • Ensure that equipment is performing at optimal levels and in accordance with all safety and quality assurance standards. Immediately notify management or correct any problems.
  • Assist in teardown, cleaning, and rebuilding of equipment. Responsible for efficient and timely startup of equipment required to maintain production schedules. Maintain high quality and safety standards.
  • Perform cleaning and maintenance of rail tracks including debris and snow clearing.
  • Will drive a railcar mover to assist with the loading and unloading of incoming product.
  • Will maintain the integrity and follow procedures and processes put into place by ownership.
  • Responsible for smooth shift transitions and full communication of related items to ensure production is not interrupted.
  • Maintain cleanliness of rail loadout area and other work areas.
  • Will be required to learn all aspects and be knowledgeable of all systems as it pertains to rail and tanker trucks.
  • Be a leader in safe work practices and safety initiatives. Report unsafe work conditions, and ensure hazards are reported and repaired. Will provide backup or support to all positions within the department as needed.
  • Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Skills and Abilities

  • Knowledge of and ability to maintain certification to operate rail car mover and other motor driven machinery.
  • Ability to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Excellent teamwork skills
  • Basic computer knowledge and proficiency.

Demonstrated Competencies

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and skills.
  • Speak clearly and effectively, write legibly and effectively.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret data from a wide variety of sources and take appropriate action.
  • Must be able to work with minimal supervision, have a sense of urgency, and a demonstrated record of dependability.
  • Communicate effectively with all levels of employees as necessary, both in written and verbal form.
  • Must have regular and punctual attendance.

Physical Requirements

  • This position requires sitting, standing, walking, climbing, twisting, reaching, bending, and lifting.
  • Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 60lbs.
  • Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including weekends.
  • Position will work indoors and outdoors depending on shipping requirements.

Experience: Minimum of 1 year of rail experience or equivalent is preferred.
Education: High School diploma or equivalent, or verifiable ability to perform essential job functions.
Department: Operations

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