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Rail Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

System One

Rail Yard Groundskeeper

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$27/hr

This position is responsible for vegetation control, grounds maintenance, snow removal, debris cleanup, and operating light equipment to ensure the rail yard remains safe and operational year-round.

System One

Rail Yard Groundskeeper

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$27/hr

This position is responsible for vegetation control, grounds maintenance, snow removal, debris cleanup, and operating light equipment to ensure the rail yard remains safe and operational year-round.

System One

Rail Yard Groundskeeper

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$27/hr

This position is responsible for vegetation control, grounds maintenance, snow removal, debris cleanup, and operating light equipment to ensure the rail yard remains safe and operational year-round.

Burns

Senior Electrical Engineer-Rail & Transit

Washington, DC · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Railroad & Transit Team Burns provides design and construction solutions to help maintain, improve ... Informal task supervision of CAD Operators, Designers, Junior Associates, Associates, Engineers and ...

Herzog

Equipment Operators

Springfield, VA · On-site

$35 - $43/hr

Operates and performs operator-level maintenance of several types of heavy equipment including end ... May work under the direction of a Railroad Track Superintendent or Railroad Track Foreman.

Herzog

Equipment Operators

Springfield, VA · On-site

$35 - $43/hr

Operates and performs operator-level maintenance of several types of heavy equipment including end ... May work under the direction of a Railroad Track Superintendent or Railroad Track Foreman.

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All JobsRail Operator JobsRail Operator Jobs in Washington

Rail Operator information

See Washington salary details

$5

$25

$40

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operator in Washington is $25.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $33.51 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 Washington? For Rail Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Rail Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Rail Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs in WA? For Rail Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Rail Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,132 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Rail Support Operator

Vulcan Materials Company

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Vulcan Materials rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 537 rated manufacturers

Job description


Build Your Career. Build America's Future.
Vulcan Materials Company is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregate-based construction materials, including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. Joining Vulcan is more than starting an exciting career-you get to make a difference for millions of people across the country every day.
When you join Vulcan, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued. No matter the role or the location across the country, every member of the Vulcan team lives through the Vulcan Way: doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time.
What You'll Do:
Promote Safety. Per OSHA and Vulcan standards, take an active role in prioritizing safety for yourself and others throughout the operation.
Travel and Related Equipment. Travel with the train on its assigned route and protect its movement. Communicate with the locomotive operator through the radio regarding coupling cars, uncoupling cars, and operating switches. Operate hand-controlled rail switches, manual hand-wheel brakes, uncoupling levers, and remote control devices.
Repair and Maintain Plant Equipment. To improve performance and safety, perform minor maintenance activities around the train, including replacing heavy couplings, broken knuckles, or air brake hoses.
Document and Record Information. Inspect all equipment on cars before movement. Maintain and enter price, product, weight, and customer name records into computers. Generate bills of sale, dray tickets, and bills of lading.
Perform General Physical Activities. Perform a variety of physical tasks. Assist with the train's loading/unloading and operation, including breaking/making trains and using high-pressure water hoses, pry bars, and shovels. Safely and efficiently operate rail load out through conveyor belts, motors, gearboxes, screens, etc. Perform start-up and shut-down procedures. Monitor material flow and load-out setting throughout the assigned area of responsibility. Make adjustments as required to maximize production and provide a quality product.
Additional Responsibilities. Other duties as assigned.
Responsibilities
Skills You'll Need:
Experience. Previous experience in the aggregate or construction industry is preferred.
Knowledge of Best Practices. Knowledge of general principles and practices regarding communication, train movements, and operation is preferred.
Flexibility. Must be willing to work overtime and extended hours depending on company demands. Must be able to work outside in all types of weather conditions andtolerate being exposed to loud noises.
Mechanical Skills. Must have some knowledge of industrial tools, their uses, and maintenance.
What You'll Like About Us:
Hourly Range.The hourly range for this role is between $22.79 and $27.81. This range does not include our discretionary bonus or equity package. When determining a candidate's compensation, we consider several factors, including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.
Great Company Culture. Our people share a competitive drive for excellence in an environment of trust, teamwork, open-mindedness, and communication.
Safe. An industry leader in health and safety standards. We are committed to creating a safe work environment and protecting all employees and customers.
Meaningful Work. What sets us apart is how our work impacts daily lives - and every employee contributes.Our aggregates produced are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States.
Health Benefits. Medical, Dental, and Vision programs, plus much more.
Rest and Relaxation. Paid vacation, personal floating days, and paid holidays.
Prepare for the Future. 401(k) with company match and contribution.
Training and Development. We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals as critical to our business.
Vulcan Materials Company is committed to employing a diverse workforce. You will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability. You also have the right to be free from discrimination for medical needs arising from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

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