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Rail Switching Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician- Belle, WV

Belle, WV · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Belle, WV to support daily rail operations at industrial facilities. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role critical ...

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How much do rail switching jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail switching in the United States is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Rail Switching operators, and how can they be addressed?

Rail Switching operators often face challenges such as coordinating with multiple teams, managing time-sensitive schedules, and working in varying weather conditions. Effective communication with yardmasters, train crews, and dispatchers is crucial to ensure safe and efficient railcar movement. Additionally, attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols help prevent accidents. To address these challenges, many operators participate in ongoing safety training, use technology to track railcar locations, and develop strong teamwork skills within the yard.

What are rail switching jobs?

Rail switching jobs involve moving railcars within a rail yard or industrial site to assemble trains, load and unload cargo, and ensure cars are correctly positioned for their next destination. Workers in these roles, often called switch operators or yardmasters, are responsible for operating track switches, coupling and uncoupling cars, and communicating with locomotive engineers. These jobs require attention to safety protocols, teamwork, and knowledge of rail yard operations. Rail switching roles are essential to the efficient movement of freight and the overall success of rail transport logistics.

What is the difference between Rail Switching vs Rail Car Loader?

AspectRail SwitchingRail Car Loader
Primary RoleDirects and manages the movement of trains and railcars within yards or terminalsLoads and unloads cargo from railcars at loading facilities
Work EnvironmentRail yards, switching facilities, often outdoorsLoading docks, industrial sites, rail yards
CertificationsRailroad safety and switching certificationsForklift, safety, and cargo handling certifications
Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight yardsLogistics, shipping, and freight companies

Rail Switching involves managing train movements within rail yards, focusing on directing railcars and trains. Rail Car Loaders primarily handle cargo loading and unloading from railcars. While both roles operate in rail environments, Rail Switching emphasizes train movement coordination, whereas Rail Car Loaders focus on cargo handling.

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

To thrive as a Rail Switch Operator, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rail yard communication systems, hand signals, and sometimes certification in railroad operations or safety is important. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help operators coordinate safely and efficiently. These skills are vital to ensure the safe, timely, and organized movement of rail cars within busy rail yards.
More about Rail Switching jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Switching jobs? Cities with the most Rail Switching job openings:
What states have the most Rail Switching jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Switching jobs include:
Rail Switching jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Switching job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,288 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Eddyville- Rail Switching Technician

Eddyville- Rail Switching Technician

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Eddyville, IA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Marmon Holdings rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Railserve
As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings-which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway-you'll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We're committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone's empowered to be their best.
Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Eddyville to support daily rail operations at industrial facilities. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role critical to keeping railcars moving safely and efficiently.
Who We Are
Railserve is a leading provider of industrial railyard services across the United States and Canada. Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive service and repair for customers who depend on safe, reliable rail operations every day. With decades of industry experience, Railserve is built on a foundation of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence. We invest in our people, promote from within, and use innovative, safety-focused technology to keep railyards running efficiently. Learn more at www.Railserve.com
Job Description
In this role, you will work as part of a team to operate locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement and placement of railcars.
If you enjoy physical work, problem-solving, and working in a fast-paced environment where safety and teamwork come first, this role may be a great fit.
Schedule:
48/36 rotating schedule (AM/PM shifts)
Compensation:
$22.00 - $24.00 per hour (based on experience)
Duties
  • Inspect locomotives prior to operation (fuel, sand, water, and supplies)
  • Operate locomotive controls such as throttle and air brakes
  • Interpret train orders, signals, and safety rules
  • Assist with switching, placement, and movement of railcars
  • Operate switches, derails, gates, and trackside equipment
  • Control movement of equipment using radio, hand signals, and lanterns
  • Couple and uncouple railcars; handle air hoses and wheel chocks
  • Apply and release hand brakes to secure equipment
  • Monitor track conditions and identify hazards
  • Assist in training new employees
  • Perform routine lubrication and basic maintenance tasks
  • Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE
  • Perform additional duties as assigned

Job Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to pass a physical, drug screen, and background check
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work in outdoor environments
  • Ability to lift, carry, and handle equipment
  • Ability to climb on and off railcars, ladders, and platforms
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Dependable with reliable transportation
  • Ability to follow instructions and safety procedures
  • Military experience is a plus

What We Offer (Benefits)
Railserve is committed to being an Employer of Choice, offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance
  • Company-paid sickness and accident income
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Annual safety shoe reimbursement
  • Prescription safety wear
  • Holiday pay
  • Vacation
  • Marmon employee discount program

Additional Information
  • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Requires working around heavy equipment and moving railcars
  • Must comply with all safety requirements at all times

Grow With Us
Don't worry if you don't meet every qualification. Railserve values reliability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Our tools, technology, and processes continue to evolve, and we invest in training and developing our people for long-term success.
Railserve provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. We recruit, hire, train, promote, and compensate employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
#LI-DNI
Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to careers@marmon.com, and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.

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