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Rail Switchman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

G&W

Switchman

Calvert, AL · On-site

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc ... As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is ...

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Switchman

Cleveland, TX · On-site

The Switchman operates a locomotive within a rail yard to move and position rail cars safely and efficiently based on switch lists. The role involves working in congested areas, operating track ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Switchman

Annapolis, MO

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc ... As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is ...

Marmon

Switchman

Cleveland, TX · On-site

The Switchman operates a locomotive within a rail yard to move and position rail cars safely and efficiently based on switch lists. The role involves working in congested areas, operating track ...

G&W

Switchman

Annapolis, MO · On-site

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc ... As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is ...

Marmon

Switchman

El Dorado, KS

The Switchman operates a locomotive within a rail yard to move and position rail cars safely and efficiently based on switch lists. The role involves working in congested areas, operating track ...

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Switchman

El Dorado, KS · On-site

The Switchman operates a locomotive within a rail yard to move and position rail cars safely and efficiently based on switch lists. The role involves working in congested areas, operating track ...

Brown & Root

Railroad Switchman 4

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

SUMMARY Operates plant packing equipment in a safe and efficient manner. RESPONSIBILITIES - Assumes responsibility for assisting in meeting plant production requirements as set by client/owner ...

Xanterra Travel Collection

Switchman II

Williams, AZ

$20.25/hr

Overview Join Join out Railway Operations team at the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel! Why the Train ... The Switchman II is responsible for night and day switching of railroad equipment: passenger cars ...

Watco

Switchman - Sheridan, WY

Sheridan, WY · On-site

$21/hr

Switchman - Sheridan, WY Job Location: Sheridan, WY-82801 Office Location: Onsite Employment Type ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Brown & Root

Railroad Switchman 4

Mont Belvieu, TX

SUMMARY Operates plant packing equipment in a safe and efficient manner. RESPONSIBILITIES - Assumes responsibility for assisting in meeting plant production requirements as set by client/owner ...

Xanterra Travel Collection

Switchman II

Williams, AZ · On-site

$20.25/hr

Overview Join Join out Railway Operations team at the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel! Why the Train ... The Switchman II is responsible for night and day switching of railroad equipment: passenger cars ...

Xanterra Travel Collection

Switchman II

Williams, AZ

$20.25/hr

Overview Join Join out Railway Operations team at the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel! Why the Train ... The Switchman II is responsible for night and day switching of railroad equipment: passenger cars ...

G&W

Switchman- Unit Operator

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc ... As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is ...

Watco

Switchman - Brighton, CO

CO · On-site

Switchman - Brighton, CO Job Location: Brighton, CO Office Location: Onsite Employment Type: Hourly ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

New

Watco

Switchman - Gillette, WY

Gillette, WY · On-site

$20/hr

Switchman - Gillette, WY Job Location: Gillette-WY-82717-82717 Office Location: Onsite Employment ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

G&W

Conductor/Switchman

Catawba, SC · On-site

Paid on the Job Training- Outdoor Work Experience Ideal - Rail Yard Experience a plus! Are you ... As a Conductor/Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure ...

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Rail Switchman information

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$14

$21

$27

How much do rail switchman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail switchman 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 does a typical shift look like for a Rail Switchman, and what types of environments do they usually work in?

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Rail switchmen typically do not earn $2000 a day; their wages are generally based on hourly rates or salaries. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed this amount often include specialized roles such as senior executives, certain medical specialists, or high-level consultants, but these are not related to rail switchmen. Achieving such daily earnings usually requires advanced skills, significant experience, or working in high-demand industries with premium compensation structures.

What does a rail switchman do?

A rail switchman is responsible for operating and maintaining track switches to direct trains onto different tracks. They work outdoors in various weather conditions, often using hand or motorized tools, and must follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. The role requires attention to detail and knowledge of railway signals and procedures.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically executive or management positions, such as railroad presidents or chief operating officers, which can earn six-figure salaries. Among operational roles, locomotive engineers and signal maintainers also earn higher wages due to specialized skills and certifications. Salary levels depend on experience, location, and company size.

How much do BNSF switchman make?

BNSF switchmen typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and shift differentials. They often work in a physically demanding environment and may require safety certifications and knowledge of railway operations.

What is a Rail Switchman job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Rail Switchman position, and why are they important?

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.

More about Rail Switchman jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Switchman jobs? Cities with the most Rail Switchman job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Switchman jobs? The most popular types of Rail Switchman jobs are:
What states have the most Rail Switchman jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Switchman jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rail Switchman jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Switchman jobs are:
Rail Switchman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Switchman job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,288 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Switchman

Switchman

G&W

Calvert, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company / Benefits Overview:
Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team - part of a legacy that is over 125 years old. With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we provide transportation and logistics services to more than 2,000 customers.
At G&W, we live by our Core Values: Safety, Service, Integrity, Respect, Transparency, Accountability, Innovation and Excellence. We offer competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and paid training to help you succeed. Check out some of our great benefits below:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision & Telehealth
  • Life Insurance
  • Optional benefit coverages for Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, ID Theft & Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending & Health Savings account plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • On the Job Training
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • And more!

* Benefits are subject to change and may vary by labor agreement
* This position DOES NOT pay into Railroad Retirement
Explore your future with G&W today and learn more about the opportunities to grow across our organization!
Job Summary:
As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is delivered to our customers efficiently. We will provide you with hands-on and classroom training to set a strong foundation for a long-term career. You'll work outdoors in all weather conditions, tackling new challenges each day while ensuring we meet our customers' needs. This is a physically active position with real opportunities for growth and advancement in a complex and dynamic environment.
See our employees in action to learn more at https://www.gwrr.com/careers/.
Responsibilities:
  • Comply with all federal, state, and other applicable railroad safety and operational regulations
  • Follow instructions when working with a certified trainer, mentor, or supervisor
  • Communicate with customers and team members using oral, written, hand signals, lantern signals or radio instructions to coordinate train or railcar movement
  • Operate track switches to determine the route of the train or rail equipment
  • Evaluate, plan, and complete all assigned work safely and efficiently
  • Climb on and off equipment and walk the length of the train or rail yard to support train operations
  • Apply or release hand brakes on railcars multiple times a day to control movement
  • Read and understand the rule books and other written or printed material
  • Inspect the condition of railcars in movement and while stationary
  • Connect air hoses and electrical components between locomotives or railcars
  • Utilize basic computer skills proficiently for electronic reporting and train documentation
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:
  • Full-time (40 plus hours weekly)
  • Varying schedule in a 24/7 work environment that includes nights, holidays, weekends, and on-call as needed
  • Outdoor work in all weather conditions working up to a 12-hour shift
  • Walking long distances on uneven surfaces and climbing ladders and equipment always ensuring three points of contact in varying environmental conditions
  • Able to lift up to 75 pounds from floor to waist and carry short distances
  • Able to squat, bend and lift overhead
  • Have good balance and coordination
  • Must meet vision requirements

Skills and Experience:
  • 2+ years of related or relevant work experience is a plus
  • Effective communication skills both written and verbal
  • Experience working in a safety-sensitive environment is a plus
  • Possess situational awareness and decision-making abilities to respond effectively in a safety sensitive environment

Required Education and Credentials:
  • High school diploma or GED; or an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience
  • Valid driver's license
  • At least 18 years of age

Employment Requirements:
  • Pre-employment physical, hearing, and vision medical review
  • May be subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing including pre-employment drug screening
  • Background screening including criminal and motor vehicle driving history

Relocation:
Must live within 50 miles of assigned location or be willing to relocate. Relocation assistance is not offered for this position.
This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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