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Rail Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Moving Rail Cars - Works in conjunction with the shuttlewagon operator in the inspection and readiness of coupling devices for proper alignment during coupling and decoupling process. * Prior to ...

Daily responsibilities include operating switches and brakes, coupling and uncoupling railcars ... rail operations positions. Schedule Day shift Overtime and weekend work may be required based on ...

Rail Terminal Conductor

Sandy, UT · On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks. * Ability to connect and ... Responsible for maintaining clear communication with Train Engineer/Operator and other crew members ...

UT · On-site

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT · On-site

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT · On-site

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT · On-site

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT · On-site

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

UT

$89K/yr

The position(s) is located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Operating Practices Division. The Operating Practices Division is responsible for examining carriers operating rules, employee ...

Conductor

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

Inspects all rail equipment to ensure there is no damage and notify the operator and supervisor immediately if there is. * Handles all rail equipment in a safe and efficient manner. * Maintain ...

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Rail Operator information

See Utah salary details

$4

$20

$32

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operator in Utah is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $26.92 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 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 qualifications do I need to work as a rail operator?

Rail operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training on operating train systems. Certification or licensing from relevant transportation authorities is often required, and good communication, attention to safety, and the ability to work flexible hours are important skills for the role.

Is it hard to be a rail operator?

Being a rail operator involves operating trains safely and efficiently, which requires technical skills, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. The job often involves shift work, including nights and weekends, and may require certification or licensing depending on the region. While it can be demanding, proper training and experience help manage the job's challenges.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs in Utah? For Rail Operator jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Operator jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs in Utah are:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs in UT? For Rail Operator jobs in UT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,707 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Rail / Switch Operator

Compass Minerals

Ogden, UT • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Compass Minerals rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 40 rated mining


Job description

Summary: This position is primarily responsible for the movement of SOP, Salt, and MgCL2 products. Assist the Shuttle wagon Operator in the spotting, staging and preparation of rail cars in line with daily shipping and/or unloading requirements. This is accomplished through the safe and efficient work habits and effective coordination with the shuttlewagon operator, weigh master and/or plant operator. Is also responsible for the inspection, cleaning, and general care of assigned areas including tracks, cars, and associated equipment. Position responsibilities vary considerably between Salt Plant operations and SOP Loadout operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: (Management reserves the right to add or modify the duties and responsibilities at any time.)
  • Equipment Inspection- Inspects rail cars for proper loading requirements (cleanliness) and discernible car integrity before loading and unloading processes begin.
  • Moving Rail Cars- Works in conjunction with the shuttlewagon operator in the inspection and readiness of coupling devices for proper alignment during coupling and decoupling process.

    • Prior to moving the car(s) removes chocks, connects air brake hoses, disengages hand brakes, and inspects track for obstacles and proper switch placement.
    • Follows all safety procedures and keeps the Shuttle wagon operator informed of potential safety hazards that may occur while spotting during rail car pushes.
    • Communicates the aforementioned and coupling and decoupling progress via radio to track mobile operator.

  • Placement of Rail Cars- Know clearance points, proper communication for "counting down" to a couple, and proper setting of hand brakes on cars prior to the uncoupling process.
  • Other Functions- Serves as the back-up for the Shuttle wagon Operator as required to cover vacation, absences and other relief issues.

    • Provides clean up on tracks.
    • Responds to problems or production needs under the silos and communicates resolutions via radio to the weigh master.

Deliverables:
  • Preparation and Inspection of rail cars as measured by inspection by either Supervisor, Weigh Master, or Brine Loader

    • Cars are cleaned not to exceed 30 minute maximum.
    • Void of contamination per pre-loading routine inspection
    • Free of defects as per pre-loading inspection and rail car functionality

  • No Violations of rail car safety as per routine inspection

    • No equipment damage to rail cars, shuttle wagon, and/or derails from debris or improperly set derailers.
    • No unsecured movements of rail cars
    • No injuries

  • No error in required track inquires as measured by Customer Service feedback, QSI, or Supervisor review

    • Car count correct.
    • Car numbers correspond with actual car string.
    • Report reflects car placement on proper track.
    • No additional charges from railroad due to inaccurate placement of railcar.
    • Inquiries completed and turned in no later than 0700.

Qualifications - External
Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to carry out each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required and should be considered the minimum standard. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience: Must have a high school diploma and previous experience or education demonstrating the ability to monitor equipment for proper operation and perform tasks related to maintaining product quality. Previous experience operating heavy equipment or working with rail equipment is a plus.
Computer Skills: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be PC literate and proficient with Excel, Word, Outlook, and Access to analyze and communicate information. Must be able to navigate an ERP to issue work requests and review inventory.
Competency:
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Interpersonal Skills - Ability to interact effectively with others and work effectively as a member of a team.
Written Communication - Concise, complete, and well organized written communications are essential
Planning/Organizing - Must be able to plan and organize a schedule that is conducive to position duties. Must have the ability to independently and effectively plan, organize, coordinate, and follow up on assignments. Must be able to remain on task in a disruptive setting. Must be able to organize in conjunction with multiple directions from Weigh Master or Plant Operator.
Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration, regardless of their status or position; Follows through on commitments.
Quality - Able to follow communicated/trained quality procedures. Able to recognize and resolve issues affecting product quality. Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.
Language Skills: The abilities listed are representative of the level of competency the incumbent needs in order to effectively perform the essential duties. These specific abilities are required for this particular position.
Ability to communicate clearly with coworkers to ensure Safety. Ability to read, analyze and interpret job-related information. Able to complete reports/logs accurately, in an understandable manner, and legibly.
Mathematical and Reasoning Ability and Skills: The ability to perform lower-level math functions. Ability to collect and accurately assemble data in a logical manner.
Essential Job Functions: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear. The employee is also required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Compass Minerals is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are firmly committed to making all employment-related decisions without regard to race, ancestry, ethnicity, color, religious creed or belief, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, and pregnancy and breastfeeding), age, military or veteran status, status as a qualified individual with a disability, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by law. To request reasonable accommodations, email careers@compassminerals.com or call 913-344-9200. Learn more about equal employment opportunity laws at dol.gov.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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