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Rail Switch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Learn more at Railserve Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This ...

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT ยท On-site

$28.75/hr

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 ...

Maintain clear communication via radio and hand signals to ensure safe switching operations. * Follow all company safety policies, OSHA standards, and railroad operating procedures to prevent ...

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Rail Switch Operator information

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$5

$19

$26

How much do rail switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail switch operator in the United States is $19.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.96 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.

What is a Rail Switch Operator job?

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.

More about Rail Switch Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Switch Operator jobs? Cities with the most Rail Switch Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Switch Operator jobs? The most popular types of Rail Switch Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Rail Switch Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Switch Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Switch Operator jobs? For Rail Switch Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Rail Switch Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,983 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Management Services LLC

Corsicana, TX โ€ข On-site

$18.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Drive a jockey truck moving 53ft trailers, containers, and chassis around the yard.

  • Perform various Groundperson duties including climbing on and off railcars, locking and unlocking tracks, and handling inner box connectors.

  • Assist packer operators in loading and unloading equipment using hand signals.


Job description

About the Job
We are hiring immediately for this position at the Union Pacific Dallas Railyard in Wilmer, TX in a recession proof industry! This is an entry level position with on the job training. We'll teach you everything you need to know in order to be successful on the job. No Experience is required. The job is a combination of a Hostler Driver and Ground Person as they are 1 and the same job.
Watch this YouTube video to see what you'll be doing. Copy and Paste:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uriQMlaUUsI
Shifts Available:
  • 4 am to 4 pm
  • 4 pm to 4 am
Starting Rate of Pay:
$18.50/hr
Benefits:
(
Medical benefits start after 60 days and the first of the month after that. Other benefits start after your 90-day probationary period)
  • Affordable Healthcare, Free Dental, cheap Vision Benefits
  • Free Life Insurance
  • Paid holidays, paid personal days
  • Boot reimbursement
  • 401K
  • Yearly Raises
  • Vacation Pay (received on yearly anniversary)
  • Weekly Pay
APPLICANTS MUST currently live within a 45 minute commute of Wilmer, TX. OUT OF AREA candidates and/or those requiring relocation will NOT be considered.
Responsibilities:
  • Drive a jockey truck moving 53ft trailers, containers, and chassis around the yard.
  • Various Groundperson duties, climbing on and off railcars, locking and unlocking tracks, putting in and taking out inner box connectors (IBC's).
  • Assist packer operators in loading and unloading the equipment using hand signals.
  • Assist in the process of stacking and unstacking chassis as well as loading and unloading chassis racks
  • Other assigned duties.
Applicants for the Jockey Driver/Groundperson position must meet the general requirements for employment with the company, according to the Company hiring process which include:
  • Must have a valid Driver's License.
  • Must be able to pass a 7-year background check. Any felonies in the last 7 years or jail time in the last 5 years will disqualify applicants.
  • Must be able to pass a drug test and a Physical Capabilities Test.
  • (No GED or diploma required)
  • No-CDL Required

Please respond to this advertisement with your resume as we're only accepting online resumes at this time:
Work Location:
UP Dallas Terminal, Wilmer, TXThis job would be suitable for persons looking for jobs in a warehouse, as a delivery driver, a forklift driver, working outdoors, ,a laborer, doing landscaping, and working in a railyard.
You will be employed directly by Pacific Rail Services and will not be considered an employee of the railroad.
About the Company
One of America's largest intermodal terminal operators, with more than 60 U.S. intermodal and auto handling facilities.Rail Management Services (RMS) is one of the largest suppliers of intermodal ramp services in the United States handling over 9 million lifts per year. An FRA certified rail switching service provider, RMS serves all U.S. Class 1 railroads.With more than three decades of experience focused on facilitating the railroad motor carrier interface, RMS has been the lowest cost and most efficient providers while maintaining one of the best safety records in the industry. Today RMS subsidiaries include Pacific Rail Services, Pacific Trailer Repair Services, Rail Terminal Services, Terminal Switching Services and PRS Auto.