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Rail Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Operator

Rincon, GA ยท 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 ...

Job Type Full-time 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 ...

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA ยท 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 ...

Job Type Full-time 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 ...

Rail Operator

Rincon, GA ยท On-site

$22/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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

About GAF - Newton, Kansas Newton is a vibrant Kansas community founded in 1871 on a spirit of work, from its earliest days as a railroad, agriculture and cattle drive hub. With a population of about ...

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA ยท 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 ...

About GAF - Newton, Kansas Newton is a vibrant Kansas community founded in 1871 on a spirit of work, from its earliest days as a railroad, agriculture and cattle drive hub. With a population of about ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

See salary details

$5

$22

$35

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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

What cities are hiring for Rail Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Rail Operator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Rail Operator jobs?

The top employers for Rail Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Rail Operator jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% 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

Rincon, GA โ€ข On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate in-plant rail movement equipment and adhere to safety procedures.

  • Perform daily inspections of equipment, maintain cleanliness, and ensure proper functioning.

  • Communicate with Rail Techs and Rail Coordinator regarding track locations, switching, and any issues.


Job description

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 giving track locations and for all interplant Rail Switching per instructions from Rail Coordinator.

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to conform to the following:ย 

  • Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
  • Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
  • Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
  • Support the efforts of management in meeting profit and growth objectives as established in the strategic business plan.
  • Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and the organizations.
  • Work safely, within the company guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOP) and Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

Our Core values define our culture and create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Our core values are:ย ย ย 

SAFETY - The safety of our employees, customers and our communities is at the forefront of everything we do.

PERFECTION - We relentlessly strive for perfection, to provide unmatched quality services and constantly raising the bar on our performance.

SUSTAINABILITY - We are stewards of the environment, committed to protecting our natural resources and reducing waste.

RESPECT - We treat all people with dignity and value the collective power of teamwork.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP - We are scrappy, bold and never satisfied with the status quo.

Requirements

Summary of essential job functions

This job includes the following duties and any other as assigned by current manager:

  • To ensure Total Customer Satisfaction.
  • Follow all safety rules and regulations.
  • Complete daily inspections of equipment to be used kept clean and in good running order.
  • Must be knowledgeable on how to use all equipment necessary to complete any task given daily.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the Switching Locomotive and Rail Track area.
  • Operate all in plant Rail Movement adhering to A&R Rail Operating Procedures and Safety Rules.
  • Communicate about any problems or concerns you may have with equipment or processes.
  • Immediately acknowledge and/or accept responsibility for damage to product, equipment, etc & Responsible for taking direction from Supervisor and or Rail Coordinator.
  • Responsible for any other duties as assigned by Managementย ย ย 

Minimum requirements

  • High School Degree / Associates Preferred
  • Rail Car Mover including switchmen or Locomotive / Track Mobile Engineer preferred.
  • Basic knowledge and good safety record in working in an industrial setting.
  • Good understanding of Rail Track switching &Track Systems.
  • Good understanding of Train air &Brake systems as well as Locomotive power systems.
  • Computer Proficiency with excel spread sheets, google docs, etc. Internal certifications for Safe Rail Operating procedures
  • Abilities required
  • Physically strong / healthy &capable walking / climbing / bending.ย 
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions.ย 

Abilities required

These physical demands are representative of the physical requirements necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the described essential job functions.

While performing the responsibilities, the employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is often required to sit and use their hands and fingers, to handle or feel and to manipulate keys on a keyboard. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.