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Rail Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Production Planning Specialist (Rail)

Lincoln, NE ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Kawasaki Rail Car Lincoln, INC seeks a full-time Production Planning Specialist at our Rail Car manufacturing facility in Lincoln, NE. Apply now at KawasakiCareers.com . Responsibilities of ...

Senior Transit Planner

New York, NY ยท On-site

$95K - $142K/yr

The successful candidate will have experience with (two or more) of the following: transit service development, bus network redesigns, bus priority/BRT planning, rail planning studies, tactical ...

Senior Transit Planner

New York, NY ยท On-site +1

$95K - $142K/yr

The successful candidate will have experience with (two or more) of the following: transit service development, bus network redesigns, bus priority/BRT planning, rail planning studies, tactical ...

Senior Transit Planner

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site +1

$95K - $142K/yr

The successful candidate will have experience with (two or more) of the following: transit service development, bus network redesigns, bus priority/BRT planning, rail planning studies, tactical ...

Support all commercial planning activities related to MX's rail-related activities: (i) Develop and maintain relationship with key rail logistics suppliers, (ii) Evaluate and recommend rail logistics ...

Senior Rail Analyst

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$84K - $111K/yr

Support all commercial planning activities related to MX's rail-related activities: (i) Develop and maintain relationship with key rail logistics suppliers, (ii) Evaluate and recommend rail logistics ...

Support all commercial planning activities related to MX's rail-related activities: (i) Develop and maintain relationship with key rail logistics suppliers, (ii) Evaluate and recommend rail logistics ...

Support all commercial planning activities related to MX's rail-related activities: (i) Develop and maintain relationship with key rail logistics suppliers, (ii) Evaluate and recommend rail logistics ...

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Rail Planning information

See salary details

$56K

$103.2K

$157K

How much do rail planning jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail planning in the United States is $103,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is rail planning?

Rail planning involves the strategic design, development, and management of railway systems to ensure efficient and safe transportation of passengers and freight. It includes tasks like analyzing current and future transportation needs, route selection, scheduling, and infrastructure development. Rail planners work closely with government agencies, engineering teams, and stakeholders to optimize rail networks and support sustainable growth. The goal is to enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and support economic development through effective rail solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in rail planning, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in rail planning often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, managing complex schedules, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Effective communication and strong project management skills are essential to align the interests of government agencies, contractors, and community groups. Staying updated on the latest industry regulations and leveraging specialized planning software can help streamline processes and mitigate potential conflicts. Collaboration and adaptability are key to successfully navigating the complexities of rail planning projects.

What is the difference between Rail Planning vs Rail Operations?

AspectRail PlanningRail Operations
Primary FocusDesigning and scheduling rail networks, route planning, infrastructure developmentManaging daily train movements, ensuring safety, and operational efficiency
Required SkillsTransportation planning, GIS, project management, regulatory knowledgeOperations management, safety protocols, communication skills
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, planning departments, project sitesTrain yards, control centers, on-site operational areas
CertificationsTransportation planning certifications, civil engineering credentialsSafety certifications, operational licenses

Rail Planning focuses on designing and scheduling rail networks, while Rail Operations manages daily train movements and safety. Both roles are essential in the rail industry but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rail Planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Planner, you need expertise in transportation planning, data analysis, and knowledge of railway systems, often supported by a degree in civil engineering, transportation, or urban planning. Familiarity with GIS software, scheduling tools, and transport modeling systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this role. These competencies ensure efficient rail operations, optimal resource allocation, and successful stakeholder collaboration in complex transportation projects.
More about Rail Planning jobs
What states have the most Rail Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Planning jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rail Planning job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Internship, and 67% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,218 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Production Planning Specialist (Rail)

KMM

Lincoln, NE โ€ข On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Kawasaki Rail Car Lincoln, INC seeks a full-time Production Planning Specialist at our Rail Car manufacturing facility in Lincoln, NE. Apply now at KawasakiCareers.com.
Responsibilities of Production Planning Specialist can include:
  • Prepare, communicate and distribute information as well as interact with customers or suppliers
  • Develop and implement procedures ensuing that adequate inventory levels are present
  • Monitor, analyze, and report performance to schedule of production and production support activities, utilizing information derived from material in SAP
  • Process, record and maintain data in Excel
  • Schedule, expedite, and coordinate the delivery and movement of critical material, including material transfers and conditional material releases
  • Ensure all parties are fully contingent of production status, plannings, and execution objectives are integrated and communicated
  • Provide support on various projects, engineering changes, and related tasks, suggest solutions and recommendations
  • Create and submit reports to management and other affected departments

Qualifications for Production Planning Specialist:
  • High School degree or GED required, Associate's and/or Bachelor's degree preferred
  • Intermediate Excel skills: Applying proper data validations techniques, VLOOKUP, use of conditional formatting, formulas, pivot tables, creating charts, graphs, as well as a familiarity with advanced Excel functions, such as, macros and VBA
  • At least 2 years of experience in scheduling and/or planning as well as experience in a manufacturing environment preferred
  • Ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions and solve problems immediately
  • Must be comfortable with handling and confirming inventory deliveries and shipments as well as tracking them when late
  • Capability to work well with others, communicate effectively (both written and verbal), and maintain organization between cross-related departments
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and competing demands, sets priorities, and ensure all issues are addressed while being sensitive to time constraints and resource availability

Perks for Production Planning Specialist:
  • Great work culture with career growth potential
  • Excellent benefits package including medical, vision, dental, 401(k), and many more
  • Paid holidays, educational reimbursement, and flexible spending account available
  • Employee discount for purchase of company products
  • Company fitness center and wellness program available
  • Educational and relocation reimbursements available

Mission:
Kawasaki, working as one for the good of the planet. We are the Kawasaki Group, a global technology leader with diverse integrated strengths. We create new value for a better environment and a brighter future for generations to come.
We value each of our employees and support efforts to use their talents and abilities in full. We respect diversity and strive to build a workplace in which all employees can live up to their full potential.
Kawasaki Rail Car Lincoln, INC is an Equal Opportunity Employer who complies with all Federal, State and Local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment.
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.