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Rail Switch Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Quantix Supply Chain Solutions

Rail Operator

Morris, IL · On-site

Maintain the cleanliness of the Switching Locomotive and Rail Track area. * Operate all in plant Rail Movement adhering to Quantix Rail Operating Procedures and Safety Rules. * Communicate about any ...

Quantix SCS LLC

Rail Operator

Morris, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Maintain the cleanliness of the Switching Locomotive and Rail Track area. * Operate all in plant Rail Movement adhering to Quantix Rail Operating Procedures and Safety Rules. * Communicate about any ...

Marmon

Trainer/Auditor (Rail)

Decatur, IL

$85K - $95K/yr

... rail switching operations, railroad safety practices, and operating procedures required Experience conducting training, coaching, mentoring, or employee development activities preferred Safety ...

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Trainer/Auditor (Rail)

Decatur, IL · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

... switching operations, railroad safety practices, and operating procedures required • Experience conducting training, coaching, mentoring, or employee development activities preferred • Safety ...

omnitrax

Engineer/Conductor

Ottawa, IL

... track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading ... the main railroad; operates trains safely by complying with operating rules and train handling ...

Chevron

Biodiesel Operator, Loader

Seneca, IL

$16.75 - $22/hr

Perform load-out functions and train plant operators on safe performance of load-out functions ... Ability to operate forklift, locomotive, pallet jack, pallet wrapper, and rail switches

omnitrax

Engineer/Conductor

Ottawa, IL · On-site

... track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading ... the main railroad; operates trains safely by complying with operating rules and train handling ...

OmniTRAX

Engineer/Conductor

Ottawa, IL · On-site

... track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading ... the main railroad; operates trains safely by complying with operating rules and train handling ...

Chevron

Biodiesel Operator, Loader

Seneca, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Perform load-out functions and train plant operators on safe performance of load-out functions ... Ability to operate forklift, locomotive, pallet jack, pallet wrapper, and rail switches

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All JobsRail Switch Operator JobsRail Switch Operator Jobs in Illinois

Rail Switch Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do rail switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail switch operator in Illinois is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, 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.

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.

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.

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. Knowledge of railway safety procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team are essential; some positions may require certification or licensing depending on the region. Physical stamina and the ability to work irregular hours are also important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Switch Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Rail Switch Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Switch Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Rail Switch Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Switch Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Switch Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Switch Operator jobs in IL?

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

Rail Switch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Switch Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,714 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Rail Operator

Quantix Supply Chain Solutions

Morris, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Quantix Supply Chain Solutions rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Job summary
Rail Yard Operators are responsible for Safe movement and placement of Rail Cars, for communication with Rail Techs for Blue Flag clearance into loading locations as well giving track locations and for all interplant Rail Switching per instructions from Rail Coordinator.
In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to conform to the following:
  • Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
  • Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
  • Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
  • Support the efforts of management in meeting profit and growth objectives as established in the strategic business plan.
  • Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and the organizations.
  • Work safely, within the company guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOP) and Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

Requirements
Summary of essential job functions
This job includes the following duties and any other as assigned by current manager:
  • To ensure Total Customer Satisfaction.
  • Follow all safety rules and regulations.
  • Complete daily inspections of equipment to be used kept clean and in good running order.
  • Must be knowledgeable on how to use all equipment necessary to complete any task given daily.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the Switching Locomotive and Rail Track area.
  • Operate all in plant Rail Movement adhering to Quantix Rail Operating Procedures and Safety Rules.
  • Communicate about any problems or concerns you may have with equipment or processes.
  • Immediately acknowledge and/or accept responsibility for damage to product, equipment, etc & Responsible for taking direction from Supervisor and or Rail Coordinator.
  • Responsible for any other duties as assigned by Management

Minimum requirements
  • High School Degree / Associates Preferred
  • Rail Car Mover including switchmen or Locomotive / Track Mobile Engineer preferred.
  • Basic knowledge and good safety record in working in an industrial setting.
  • Good understanding of Rail Track switching &Track Systems.
  • Good understanding of Train air &Brake systems as well as Locomotive power systems.
  • Computer Proficiency with excel spread sheets, google docs, etc. Internal certifications for Safe Rail Operating procedures
  • Abilities required
  • Physically strong / healthy &capable walking / climbing / bending.
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Abilities required
These physical demands are representative of the physical requirements necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the described essential job functions.
While performing the responsibilities, the employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is often required to sit and use their hands and fingers, to handle or feel and to manipulate keys on a keyboard. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision.
Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

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