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Rail Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Road & Rail Services

Rail Transloader

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$20/hr

Rail Transloader / Terminal Operator Pay: Starting at $20 per hour Location: East Chicago, IN Job Type: Full-time Build a Career in Rail Terminal Operations Road & Rail Services is hiring a ...

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$35.80/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in ... Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery. * High School Diploma, General Education ...

''

Rail Operations Planner

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

$58K - $78K/yr

Support the development and execution of the annual rail operating plan in collaboration with Transportation, Deployment, Supply Planning, and other stakeholders. * Create and maintain weekly rail ...

Trilon Group

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region. * Support business development activities including client engagement ...

Trilon

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Chicago, IL

Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region. * Support business development activities including client engagement ...

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Transload Operator

Hammond, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Cando provides specialized rail operating services. We provide a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services ...

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All JobsRail Operator JobsRail Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Rail Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$23

$36

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operator in Chicago, IL is $23.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $30.48 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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Rail Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Rail Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Rail Operator job openings:

Rail Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,364 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Rail Transloader

Road & Rail Services

East Chicago, IN • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Road & Rail Services rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Rail Transloader / Terminal Operator

Pay: Starting at $20 per hour
Location: East Chicago, IN
Job Type: Full-time

Build a Career in Rail Terminal Operations

Road & Rail Services is hiring a dependable, safety-focused Rail Transloader / Terminal Operator to transfer hazardous and non-hazardous materials between railroad tank cars and tanker trucks.

This is an active, outdoor industrial position involving transfer equipment, regulated materials, documentation, and work at heights. Previous transloading experience is helpful, but training is provided for qualified candidates who are comfortable working around hazardous materials and following detailed safety procedures.

What You Will Do

Transfer hazardous and non-hazardous products between tank cars and tanker trucks

Inspect railcars, trucks, hoses, fittings, seals, and transfer equipment

Connect and disconnect hoses and prepare equipment for product transfers

Climb tank cars and trailers to inspect, connect, and seal equipment

Prepare products through heating, sparging, sampling, and related processes

Operate pumps, heaters, golf carts, small tractors, and other site equipment

Perform basic preventive maintenance on batteries, starters, clutches, and related equipment

Complete transfer logs, facility records, manifests, and hazardous-waste documentation accurately

Monitor transfers and respond promptly to leaks, equipment problems, or unsafe conditions

Maintain clean and orderly work areas

Participate in safety inspections and audits

Follow all company, customer, EPA, FRA, and OSHA requirements

Work independently while meeting safety, quality, and productivity expectations

What You Will Need

Strong commitment to workplace safety

Ability to follow detailed operating and emergency-response procedures

Willingness to work around hazardous and non-hazardous materials

Careful attention to documentation and product-transfer details

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Dependable attendance and punctuality

Ability to work outdoors throughout the year

Ability to wear respiratory protection, protective clothing, and required PPE

Industrial, terminal, chemical-handling, warehouse, mechanical, or railroad experience is preferred

Physical and Work Requirements

This position requires the ability to:

Work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, dust, and noisy conditions

Climb and work on tank cars or trailers at heights of 15–20 feet

Frequently bend, kneel, squat, twist, and walk on uneven surfaces

Walk up to five miles within a three-hour period and occasionally up to 10 miles per shift

Lift, carry, push, or pull up to 60 pounds

Apply gripping force of up to 80 pounds

Stand, bend, or climb for periods exceeding two hours

Wear respiratory protection and full hazardous-material protective suits when required

Hear, understand, and communicate safety instructions clearly

Perform the essential duties with or without reasonable accommodation

Safety Expectations

Safety is an essential responsibility of this position. Employees must follow all operating procedures and regulatory requirements, immediately report unsafe conditions, protect company and customer equipment, and complete every transfer without creating unnecessary risk to themselves or others.

Benefits

Road & Rail Services offers:

Medical, vision, and dental insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company matching

Paid holidays and vacation

Annual steel-toe boot allowance

Company-provided personal protective equipment

Training for hazardous-material handling

Career advancement opportunities

A promote-from-within culture

A veteran-friendly workplace

About Road & Rail Services

Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services provides rail-related services across North America. Our employees support terminal operations, plant services, and rail-asset maintenance for railroads, manufacturers, shippers, and equipment owners.

Apply today to build a career in rail terminal operations with a company committed to safety, dependable service, and employee development.

What Road & Rail Services employees say

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