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Rail Switch Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Alstom

Locomotive Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... systems, switches, and other railway equipment. * Maintaining a strong emphasis on safety to ensure the well-being of yourself, your team, and the public. * Adhere to operating rules, speed ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Switchman

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$31.50/hr

As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is ... Operate track switches to determine the route of the train or rail equipment * Evaluate, plan, and ...

APP RAILCAR GROUP

Railcar Repair Technician 1

Woodland, CA · On-site

$23.50 - $28.50/hr

... and a rail services division that operates short line railroads and contract switching and ... Must be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Ghost

Infrastructure Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Company Overview Ghost is an AI-native inventory distribution platform and operating system for ... Own and manage Ghost's cloud infrastructure across AWS, Railway, and Vercel, including VPC ...

Ghost

Infrastructure Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Company Overview Ghost is an AI-native inventory distribution platform and operating system for ... Own and manage Ghost's cloud infrastructure across AWS, Railway, and Vercel, including VPC ...

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All JobsRail Switch Operator JobsRail Switch Operator Jobs in California

Rail Switch Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$19

$26

How much do rail switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail switch operator in California is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the rail switch operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Switch Operator, you need a solid understanding of railway systems, attention to detail, and good physical coordination, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with track-switching mechanisms, signaling systems, and sometimes safety certifications from rail authorities are typically required. Strong communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set exceptional candidates apart. These abilities are crucial to ensuring safe and efficient train routing and preventing accidents in a dynamic rail environment.

What are the typical work shifts and environments like for rail switch operators?

Rail Switch Operators often work in outdoor rail yards or along rail lines and are required to manage switches and signals in varying weather conditions. Shifts can include nights, weekends, and holidays, as trains operate around the clock, so flexibility is important. Operators may work independently or as part of a small team, coordinating closely with locomotive engineers and dispatchers. While the role can be physically demanding and requires vigilance, it offers opportunities to learn more about railway operations and pursue advancement into supervisory or technical positions with experience.

How to become a rail switch operator?

To become a rail switch operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Some positions require certification in safety procedures and knowledge of railway signaling systems; physical fitness and the ability to work in various weather conditions are also important. Licensing or certification requirements vary by region and employer.

What is a rail switch operator?

A Rail Switch Operator is responsible for controlling track switches to direct trains onto the correct tracks. They communicate with train crews and dispatchers to ensure safe and efficient rail traffic movement. Their duties may also include coupling and uncoupling railcars, inspecting track conditions, and operating signals. This role requires attention to detail, safety awareness, and the ability to work in various weather conditions. It is an essential position in the railway industry to prevent collisions and keep trains running on schedule.

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Rail Switch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Switch Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,447 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Locomotive Engineer

Alstom

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Alstom rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

At Alstom, we understand transport networks and what moves people. From high-speed trains, metros, monorails, and trams, to turnkey systems, services, infrastructure, signalling and digital mobility, we offer our diverse customers the broadest portfolio in the industry. Every day, 80,000 colleagues lead the way to greener and smarter mobility worldwide, connecting cities as we reduce carbon and replace cars.
We are looking for a Locomotive Engineers for our Los Angeles, CA or outlying points (Palmdale, Oceanside, San Bernardino etc.) facility.Could you be the full-time Locomotive Engineer we are looking for?
In your role as a Locomotive Engineer, you will:
Be responsible for the safe operation of locomotives, complying with train orders, wayside signals, railroad operating rules, special instructions, Federal, State, and local regulations to transport passengers safely and efficiently. Perform air brake tests as required. You must make timely and critical decisions. Think and function independently and utilizes clear and effective verbal communication skills in interaction with fellow crew members and other personnel responsible for safe and efficient train movement.
Your duties include:
  • Operates trains during various work hours on Metrolink's passenger rail system while maintaining situational awareness, reporting to work on time, fit and rested to perform your duties.
  • Communicating effectively with dispatchers and other crew members regarding train movements and schedules.
  • Responding promptly to any emergencies or incidents that may occur during operations.
  • Provide service through the application of a high level of technical expertise related to the safe quality service in order to meet the customer's specified train schedule.
  • Working shifts that encompass days, evenings, and nights in a scheduled environment.
  • Handling and working with locomotives, train cars, air hoses, braking systems, switches, and other railway equipment.
  • Maintaining a strong emphasis on safety to ensure the well-being of yourself, your team, and the public.
  • Adhere to operating rules, speed restrictions and initiate remedial action to eliminate undesirable train operation practices and communicate any issues or problems that may hinder the safe operation of the system.
  • Adhere to all policies and procedures for all stakeholders.
  • Compliant with all regulatory requirements such as periodic medicals, first aid training and aspects related to CFR 240.
  • Other tasks as assigned.

Your role is highly visible to the public, including passengers, internal colleagues, and supervisors. In the event of an emergency, you will be required to implement evacuation plans and compile customer service reports, as well as any other reports as necessary.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High School diploma/GED.
  • Have operated a locomotive within one (1) year.
  • Valid California Driver's License.
  • 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college.
  • No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years.
  • Pass the background check required for the position.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Some college or vocational training.
  • Current Class 1 Certification or passenger rail experience.
  • Experience working varying shift schedules.
  • Prior railroad operating experience.
  • Preference will be given to candidates who are familiar with the territory and are currently qualified as a Metrolink Locomotive Engineer.

Physical Requirements
  • Medium to heavy work, lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally. Knuckles are 75 pounds and Passenger Conductors and Locomotive Engineers might have to replace.
  • Reach/handle/finger/feel.
  • Stoop/bend/kneel/crouch/crawl/balance/climb/sit.
  • Work in an enclosed confined area (locomotive), climbing, lifting, walking and working outside in inclement weather.
  • Walk long distances over uneven terrain and surfaces.
  • Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity.
  • Pass physical examination required for the position.
  • Must meet color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations.

Basic Competencies
  • Ability to maintain alertness, awareness, and vigilance.
  • Communication skills (provide clear instructions/directions).
  • Be fluent in English communication skills (written and spoken).

Employment Conditions
  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries.
  • Wear protective equipment including hearing protection, safety-toe boots, or safety glasses.
  • Complete annual training and pass required tests for the position.
  • Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol.
  • Must pass all required assessments.
  • Must be able to work on customer's property.
  • In compliance with federal law regarding security checks of individuals in positions involving public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. §1143), Alstom is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.
  • Successfully complete a pre-employment medical examination and drug screening. In accordance with 49 CFR Part 219. Alstom is obligated to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants or employees who intend to perform safety-sensitive duties in covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant or employee refuses to provide written consent for Alstom to access these records, the individual will not be allowed to perform safety-sensitive functions.
  • This position is governed by a collective bargaining agreement; membership is required.

Please note that Alstom is offering priority of employment to Amtrak employees currently assigned to the SCRRA Metrolink service. We recognize, however, that not all such employees may accept our offer to join Alstom and that other vacancies may arise. To address these contingencies, and given the amount of time it takes to complete the recruitment process and the tight training deadlines that Alstom must meet in order to successfully complete the transfer of services as scheduled, it is necessary for Alstom to begin active outside recruiting now for all positions. You may be contacted, have a phone screen or interview but offers of employment will not be made until we have extended offers of employment to the current Amtrak personnel eligible for our priority offering.
All terms and conditions of employment are subject to negotiation with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen.
Salary Range: Subject to negotiation with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen
Alstom is a global company where our people vision and values embrace Diversity and Inclusion (D&I). Wherever we operate and across all our businesses, we want to create an inclusive culture in which diversity is welcomed and appreciated. By bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and giving everyone the opportunity to contribute with their knowledge, skills, experiences and perspectives, we also generate value for Alstom and its stakeholders.
Employment at Alstom is based solely on a person's merit and qualifications directly related to professional competence. Alstom does not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, creed, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), or any other basis protected by law.
It is Alstom's policy to comply with all applicable national, state and local laws pertaining to non-discrimination and equal opportunity. The Company's Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policy, as well as its affirmative action obligations, includes the full and complete support of the Company. Because it's just the right thing to do. We hope you think so, too.

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