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Rail Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Empirical

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

Rail Operator 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 ...

Martin Marietta

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO · On-site

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance. This role requires strict adherence to Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, Mine Safety ...

Martin Marietta

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO · On-site

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

Rail Operator The Rail Operator is a critical member of the Martin Marietta/Rock & Rail LLC logistics team, responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable movement of freight trains, aggregates ...

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

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 ...

Martin Marietta

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO · On-site

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance. This role requires strict adherence to Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, Mine Safety ...

Martin Marietta

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance. This role requires strict adherence to Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, Mine Safety ...

Martin Marietta Materials

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO · On-site

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance. This role requires strict adherence to Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, Mine Safety ...

Martin Marietta Materials

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO · On-site

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance. This role requires strict adherence to Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, Mine Safety ...

King County

Light Rail Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

Rail Operator Opportunity King County Metro's Rail Division is seeking motivated individuals to join our team as Rail Operators. Rail operators interface with customers and the Link Control Center.

New

GovernmentJobs.com

Light Rail Operator

Bellevue, WA · On-site

Rail Operator Learn how Metro connects you with what matters. This position is only open to current King County Bus Operators impacted by a current or upcoming non-domicile CDL expiration. Former ...

New

King County

Light Rail Operator

Bellevue, WA · On-site

Rail Operator Opportunity King County Metro's Rail Division is seeking motivated individuals to join our team as Rail Operators. Rail operators interface with customers and the Link Control Center.

GovernmentJobs.com

Light Rail Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

Rail Operator Learn how Metro connects you with what matters. This position is only open to current King County Bus Operators impacted by a current or upcoming non-domicile CDL expiration. Former ...

King County

Light Rail Operator

Seattle, WA

$31.39 - $44.84/hr

Rail operators interface with customers and the Link Control Center. Ideal candidates possess confidence, patience, good communications skills and consistently demonstrate sound judgment and good ...

Energy Transfer Equity Lp

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

Starting hourly wage for all new Rail Operators joining Energy Transfer is $28.75 Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each ...

Energy Transfer Equity Lp

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

Starting hourly wage for all new Rail Operators joining Energy Transfer is $28.75 Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each ...

Energy Transfer

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

Rail Operator This position is responsible for safely and efficiently operating and maintaining rail equipment, track, and switches. The safe transfer of crude oil and petroleum products to and from ...

Energy transfer

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

Starting hourly wage for all new Rail Operators joining Energy Transfer is $28.75 Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each ...

Aloha Petroleum, Ltd.

Rail Operator

Epping, ND

This position is responsible for safely and efficiently operating and maintaining rail equipment, track, and switches. The safe transfer of crude oil and petroleum products to and from shore tankage ...

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Rail Operator information

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How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 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 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 are rail operators?

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 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.

More about Rail Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Operator jobs? Cities with the most Rail Operator job openings:
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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? The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs are:
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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Full Time, 85% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,912 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Rail Operator

Rail Operator

Empirical

Garden City, KS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Rail Operator

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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