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Rail Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 tanker truck ...

Trained in operating the specific equipment for the movements (Rail King) along with the safety and operating procedures Inspecting tracks and equipment for safety hazards Works in conjunction with ...

New

Trained in operating the specific equipment for the movements (Rail King) along with the safety and operating procedures * Inspecting tracks and equipment for safety hazards * Works in conjunction ...

Trained in operating the specific equipment for the movements (Rail King) along with the safety and operating procedures * Inspecting tracks and equipment for safety hazards * Works in conjunction ...

Rail Operator Operative Abwicklung von Schienentransporten (Export & Import) Betreuung und Kommunikation mit Bahnoperateuren Koordination von Vorlufen und Stopf-/Beladungsprozessen Ratenverhandlungen ...

The Rail Load Out Operator is responsible for loading all rail cars and trucks scheduled and maintaining quality and safety in the rail areas. Responsibilities * Safe operation of Loaders and Railcar ...

Rail Supervisor - Trainee

Seattle, WA · On-site

$49.96 - $52.90/hr

Managing Rail Operator assignments, work schedules, and service coverage. Yard Supervision: Overseeing and authorizing all work and movements with the yard RSITs who fail to qualify in any of these ...

The Rail Load Out Operator is responsible for loading all rail cars and trucks scheduled and maintaining quality and safety in the rail areas. Responsibilities * Safe operation of Loaders and Railcar ...

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Rail Operator information

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$5

$22

$35

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 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 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 are rail operators?

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 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.

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 job categories do people searching Rail Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Full Time, 85% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,912 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Rail Operator

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Energy Transfer rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Energy Transfer, recognized by Forbes as one of America's best large employers, is dedicated to responsibly and safely delivering America's energy.  We are driven to inspire our employees to create superior value for our customers, our investors, a sustainable future and giving back to the community where we have long-standing commitments to causes including MD Anderson Children's Cancer Hospital, The Salvation Army, The American Red Cross, Ronald McDonald House and many more. 

We value all of our employees who make our growth and success possible.  We are proud to offer industry leading compensation, comprehensive benefits, 401(k) match with additional profit sharing, PTO and abundant career opportunities. 

Come join our award winning over 12,000 strong organization as we fuel the world and each other!

 Summary:
 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, tanker truck and railcar in compliance with federal, state and company regulations, procedures, guidelines, and policies. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. The essential job duties for this position are listed below:

  • Safe and efficient operations of all ND assets protecting employees, the public, the environment, company assets and customers' assets.
  • Ensure full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
  • Ensure conformance with all company policies, procedures, and principles of operational safety
  • Must be detailed orientated, self-starter and able to work with little supervision while maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Maintain cleanliness of loading equipment and work area.
  • Perform and legibly document pre and post railcar loading inspections to include but not limited to railcar; heels, loading volumes, outages, weights, seal numbers, and stenciling information to ensure compliance with DOT/FRA/PHMSA Hazardous Material shipping requirements.
  • Connect and disconnect loading equipment to the railcar by operating hoses, grounding cables, loading arms, valves, pneumatic and manual hand tools, and torque wrenches requiring manual manipulation and dexterity.
  • Accurately perform keypunch entry of railcar information into flow computer (micro-load) system.
  • Monitor product movement to and from storage tanks, including coordinating activities with other departments to ensure constant and safe product flow. 
  • Operate rail equipment in accordance with company approved policies and procedures and in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations and "limited use agreements" with Class 1 railroad.  
  • Add/remove railcars as needed to ensure outbound train tenders are met.
  • Stage and secure railcars for inbound/outbound switches and railcar repair.
  • Perform general maintenance on field and facility equipment.
  • Inspect and maintain facility track, track switches, switch stands, road crossings and report any abnormalities or safety concerns to shift supervisor.
  • Complete daily, weekly, and/or monthly inspections/reports to include, but not limited to, railcar inventory, consumable inventories, inspection reports, incident reports, and potential hazard/near miss reports.
  • Ensure facility buildings, equipment, and surrounding areas are in safe and clean working conditions, remove and dispose of trash, perform grounds maintenance, and perform repairs as directed.  
  • Identify, report, and correct safety / environmental / regulatory concerns per company policy and procedure. 
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by your Supervisor or Manager. 

Experience and Education Requirements 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

         A High School Diploma or equivalent

         Current/valid driver's license 

         Communicate (written and verbal) in the English language 

         Basic math and PC skills

         Knowledge of CFR-DOT regulations pertaining to shipment of hazardous materials

         Knowledge of transloading, rail terminal, railcar mover / locomotives

         Knowledge of AAR and FRA standards, policies, and regulations

Required education:

  • High school diploma or GED

Required experience is commensurate with the selected job level:

  • Level C requires a minimum of 0 - 2 years of relevant experience in a midstream operations role or equivalent work experience
  • Level B requires a minimum of 2 - 4 years of relevant experience in a midstream operations role or equivalent work experience
  • Level A requires a minimum of 4+ years of relevant experience in a midstream operations role or equivalent work experience

Working Conditions:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

  • Lifting up to 50 lbs occasionally.
  • Driving, walking, standing frequently.
  • Exposure to adverse weather, cramped conditions and some heavy lifting
    Visits to industrial/manufacturing settings, which may include exposure to various materials and chemicals, as well as extreme temperature conditions and loud machinery, and require appropriate personal protective equipment.
  • Occasional overnight travel may be required.

The physical requirements and work environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.


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