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Rail Switchman Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Loadstar

Rail Switchman Lead

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Railcar Switching Operator This position will be responsible for the safe and efficient railcar switching and locomotive operations. Strong communication skills are required to be able to safely move ...

loadstarusa

Rail Switchman Lead

Baton Rouge, LA

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Job Summary This position will be responsible for the safe and efficient railcar switching and locomotive operations. Strong communication skills are required to be able to safely move railcars in ...

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Rail Switchman information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$14

$20

$26

How much do rail switchman jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail switchman in Baton Rouge, LA is $20.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail switchman?

A Rail Switchman is responsible for safely operating track switches, coupling and uncoupling railcars, and ensuring trains are correctly assembled for transport. They work in rail yards or industrial sites to direct train movements, assist with loading and unloading, and communicate with train crews and dispatchers. This position requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and an understanding of rail operations.

What does a rail switchman do?

Rail Switchmen typically work outdoors in rail yards or along tracks, often in all weather conditions and at various times, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Shifts generally involve tasks like aligning track switches, coupling and uncoupling railcars, communicating with engineers and conductors, and ensuring trains are routed correctly. The role can be physically demanding, requiring alertness and quick decision-making in dynamic settings. Teamwork is essential, as Switchmen frequently coordinate with other yard personnel to maintain smooth and safe operations. This hands-on environment provides valuable experience for those interested in advancing to higher-level positions in railroad operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a rail switchman?

A Rail Switchman must possess strong spatial awareness, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with railroad signaling systems, radio communication equipment, and adherence to safety protocols—often validated by on-the-job training and certifications such as FRA qualification—is crucial. Attention to detail, effective teamwork, and excellent situational awareness are key soft skills. These qualities help ensure safe, efficient operations and minimize risks in a demanding and dynamic rail yard environment.

How to become a rail switchman?

To become a rail switchman, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check and drug screening. On-the-job training is provided, and familiarity with railway safety procedures and equipment is essential; some positions may require certification or experience operating railway tools and signals.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Switchman jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Rail Switchman jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Rail Switchman jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

Rail Switchman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Switchman job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, and 41% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,766 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Rail Switchman Lead

Loadstar

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Examines track list to determine which railcars to spot, load, or ship.

  • Separates inbound railcars, spots them for loading/discharge, and ensures proper track space.

  • Ensures railcars are properly secured, connected, and weighed, and verifies weight compliance for outbound loads.

Job description

Railcar Switching Operator

This position will be responsible for the safe and efficient railcar switching and locomotive operations. Strong communication skills are required to be able to safely move railcars in, out, and around the facility. Experience in railyard operations and/or chemical plant loading is preferred, but not required.

Schedule:

  • Full Time
  • Rotating 12 hour shift work schedule

Essential Job Duties

  • Examines track list in order to determine which railcars are to be spotted, loaded, and/or shipped
  • Proceeds to the designated track(s) in order to separate railcars to be shipped/loaded, and ensure that there is proper track space available for inbound railcars
  • Separates inbound railcars and spots the railcar for loading/discharge
  • Ensures that all railcars, which have been spotted, are properly secured by means of setting the brake
  • Pulls and separates loaded railcars that will be shipped from those that have been preloaded
  • Checks outbound railcars in order to ensure that all railcars are properly connected
  • Weighs all inbound and outbound loads and empties
  • Ensures that DOT certification for weight on outbound loads is not exceeded
  • Completes any other duties that may be assigned to complete the job.

Job Qualifications Candidate must:

  • Must currently possess a valid, unexpired TWIC and driver's license.
  • Must be able to follow OSHA safety standards and be safety conscious at all times.
  • Should be comfortable working at heights and near the water
  • 18 years or older and legally able to work in the U.S.
  • Stable work history with good references from past employers
  • Pass a drug screen, physical, and background check

Physical Requirements Candidate must be able to:

  • Speak, write, read, hear, and have good vision
  • Work outside in environmental conditions which at times include extreme heat or extreme cold
  • Wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) without restriction and pass any medical examination associated with the use of PPE
  • Able to lift 30lbs

Employee Benefits

  • Medical insurance options with the company paying a large portion of the premiums, including affordable dental and vision plans for employees and their families.
  • Company-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance
  • Matching 401(k) plan to help employees save money for retirement.
  • Vacation, sick leave, and holiday benefits
  • Training and development programs

Loadstar is an Equal Opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. Loadstar is a veteran-friendly company. Previous military experience and proven ability to follow procedures a plus.

Every effort has been made to ensure a complete job description. However, this document in no way implies that these responsibilities are the only duties you may be required to perform. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position, especially where the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for the role.

You must be able to perform each individual essential duty properly with or without reasonable accommodation to be successful. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

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