1

Rail Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

$64K - $107K/yr

Receives requests for police services from DART bus dispatchers, rail controllers, bus and rail operators, or other sources. Dispatches calls for service, according to priority using a two-way radio ...

Forklift Operator

Opelika, AL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Forklift Operator Circular Services is a leading developer and operator of circular economy ... into railroad cars or trucks or storage facilities. Benefits: * Paid parental leave * Health ...

Track Laborer - Tuscaloosa, AL

Tuscaloosa, AL ยท On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

... Railroad Administration General Code of Operating Rules written test โ€ข Roadway Worker Protection Worker written test โ€ข Fall Protection written test โ€ข Maintenance of Way safety written test โ€ข ...

Forklift Operator

Opelika, AL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

... into railroad cars or trucks or storage facilities. Benefits: * Paid Parental Leave * Health ... Able to follow instructions for operating equipment and record keeping * Able to execute ...

Clark Transfer is Contracting Owner Operators Great Work: * Year-round work * No-touch policy ... There were no interstate highways America relied on the railways - and the railways had limited ...

Clark Transfer is Contracting Owner Operators Great Work: * Year-round work * No-touch policy ... There were no interstate highways America relied on the railways - and the railways had limited ...

Clark Transfer is Contracting Owner Operators Great Work: * Year-round work * No-touch policy ... There were no interstate highways America relied on the railways - and the railways had limited ...

Clark Transfer is Contracting Owner Operators Great Work: * Year-round work * No-touch policy ... There were no interstate highways America relied on the railways - and the railways had limited ...

Clark Transfer is Contracting Owner Operators Great Work: * Year-round work * No-touch policy ... There were no interstate highways America relied on the railways - and the railways had limited ...

Clark Transfer is Contracting Owner Operators Great Work: * Year-round work * No-touch policy ... There were no interstate highways America relied on the railways - and the railways had limited ...

Showing results 41-60

Rail Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$4

$20

$32

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operator in Alabama is $20.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $26.78 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.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs in Alabama?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Rail Operator jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Rail Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs in AL?

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

Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,520 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Railroad Construction Track Laborer

STX Corporation

Calera, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Pay: $19.00 - $24.00 per hour (Depending on Experience)

Job description:

Track Laborer

The Track Laborer performs a variety of tasks involving physical labor to build, repair and maintain railroad track. Uses a variety of hand and power tools and other construction equipment. Works with a crew and reports to a Foreman.

Examples of materials and tools utilized include ballast, rails, spike mauls, tie tongs, rail tongs, rail forks, lining bars, shovels, jacks, spike mauls, spike drivers, claw bars, spike lifters, spike pullers, power wrenches, impact drills, and other welding material.

Employee may be required to work up to 40-60 hour work weeks, including nights and weekends as needed. This position will be needed to complete a local project. Once the project is complete, we can decide what the next steps are for the right candidate. Which means: if you want a full-time offer following this project, you will need to be safety oriented, be ready for work every day as assigned, and work as a team while professionally representing STX.

General Duties

· Cleans and prepares construction work sites to eliminate possible hazards.

· Attaches rail, remove spikes, lift and handle railroad crossties.

· Digs ditches or trenches, backfills excavations, and compacts and levels earth to grade specifications, using picks, shovels, pneumatic tampers, and rakes including tamping ballast.

· Positions, joins, aligns, and seals structural components.

· Measures, marks, and records openings and distances to lay out areas where construction work will be performed.

· Signals equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of machinery, equipment, and materials.

· Loads, unloads, and identifies building materials, machinery, and tools, and distributes them to the appropriate locations, according to project plans and specifications.

· Follows company and industry safety rules, practices, and procedures.

· Controls traffic passing near, in, and around work zones.

· Willing to work various shift schedules, including nights and weekends.

· Ability to travel to various project and work sites as needed.

· Experience with machines and tools used in construction, including their designs, uses, repair and maintenance.

· Ability to understand written and verbal instructions.

· Ability to understand and follow safety rules, policies, procedures, and regulations.

· Ability to work as a team to carry out assigned tasks

· MUST HAVE A VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Works outdoors at railroad construction sites (including industrial, short line, industries, refinery, freight, and passenger railroads) in all weather conditions, including very hot and cold weather.

Capable of walking long distances on uneven or rough terrain.

Lifts, pushes, pulls, and carries heavy objects, machinery, and tools up to 100 pounds.

Performs physical activities that require considerable use of the arms and legs and moving the whole body, such as standing, climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, bending, and handling of materials, equipment, and tools.

May be exposed to loud noise, live track/trains, and high voltage.

Must wear appropriate safety equipment, such as safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection, as required by the company.

Will likely need to respond to after-hours emergency call outs on occasion.

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.

As a US Department of Transportation contractor, STX is required to comply with all current Federal DOT regulations, including drug testing. Currently, Federal DOT drug tests do not allow for the use of marijuana, even in states that allow medical and/or recreational use. Accordingly, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug test that includes marijuana prior to being hired.

STX Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with STX without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Apply today and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Railroad Construction Industry!  

For Hourly Pay Clarification: Hourly pay depends on experience and will be discussed during interview. A "Green" candidate with zero experience will start at $19.00 per hour.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • On-the-job training
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Powered by JazzHR

jRrp0CVneI