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Rail Switchman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

G&W

Conductor/Switchman

Catawba, SC · On-site

$24/hr

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

Quantix SCS LLC

Rail Operator

Rincon, GA · On-site

$21/hr

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 ...

Packwell Inc

SWITCHMAN

La Porte, TX · On-site

Summary: responsible for assembling trains and switching railroad cars into a yard. Throws switches and couples, or attaches to cable, to railcars being hauled by locomotive in industrial plants or ...

Watco

Switchman - Sauget / Cahokia, IL

Sauget, IL · On-site

$22/hr

M-F, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM potential for overtime Job Summary The Switchman position will control and coordinate the train movements while switching railcars whether in the yard of a railroad, industrial ...

G&W

Conductor/Switchman

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$26/hr

Paid on the Job Training- Outdoor Work Experience Ideal - Rail Yard Experience a plus! Must be ... As a Switchman/Engineer or Utility Conductor, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail ...

Watco

Switchman - Gillette, WY

Gillette, WY

$20/hr

... The Switchman position will control and coordinate the train movements while switching railcars ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

LED FastStart

Chemical Plant Loader

Plaquemine, LA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Chemical Plant Loader / Rail Switchman Looking to join a company that values safety, training, and teamwork? PSC Group is hiring a full-time Rail Loader - Switching Technician. This is your ...

ConGlobal

Railroad Switcher/Brakeman

Edgerton, KS · On-site

$29.12/hr

As a Railroad Switchman at ConGlobal, you will play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of railcars within our terminal. You'll be responsible for monitoring and aligning track switch ...

ConGlobal

Railroad Switcher/Brakeman

Edgerton, KS · On-site

$29.12/hr

As a Railroad Switchman at ConGlobal, you will play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of railcars within our terminal. You'll be responsible for monitoring and aligning track switch ...

Watco

Switchman - Sheridan, WY

Sheridan, WY · On-site

$21/hr

... The Switchman position will control and coordinate the train movements while switching railcars ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Marmon

Switching

Altoona, PA · On-site

$27.84 - $28.84/hr

Union Tank Car Company is seeking applicants to become a Switchman at our full-service rail tank car repair shop in Altoona, Pennsylvania to assist in various departments as needed by plant ...

ConGlobal

Railroad Switcher/Brakeman

Edgerton, KS · On-site

$29.12/hr

As a Railroad Switchman at ConGlobal, you will play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of railcars within our terminal. You'll be responsible for monitoring and aligning track switch ...

ConGlobal

Railroad Switcher/Brakeman

Edgerton, KS

$29.12/hr

As a Railroad Switchman at ConGlobal, you will play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of railcars within our terminal. You'll be responsible for monitoring and aligning track switch ...

Packwell Inc

SWITCHMAN

La Porte, TX

$18 - $25/hr

Description Summary: responsible for assembling trains and switching railroad cars into a yard. Throws switches and couples, or attaches to cable, to railcars being hauled by locomotive in industrial ...

Packwell Inc

SWITCHMAN

La Porte, TX · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Description: Summary: responsible for assembling trains and switching railroad cars into a yard. Throws switches and couples, or attaches to cable, to railcars being hauled by locomotive in ...

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Rail Switchman information

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$14

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$27

How much do rail switchman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 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 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 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.

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 knowledge of railway safety procedures and equipment is essential. Some positions may require certification or experience operating railway tools and signals.

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.

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:
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Rail Switchman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Switchman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,288 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Conductor/Switchman

G&W

Catawba, SC • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Paid on the Job Training- Outdoor Work Experience Ideal - Rail Yard Experience a plus! Must be willing to work overnights and weekends.
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
Explore your future with G&W today and learn more about the opportunities to grow across our organization!
Pay details : $24/hour
Does not pay into the Railroad Retirement Board
Job Summary:
While prior railyard experience is ideal, any outdoor work experience is a plus. We offer paid training!
As a Conductor/Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure operational efficiency. 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 true opportunities for growth and advancement in a complex and dynamic environment. This position will plan and coordinate safe efficient train movements and proper makeup of outbound trains and switching of inbound trains and has the opportunity to advance into a Locomotive Operator role.
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
  • Ensure that trains are properly made up and dispatched at the appointed times
  • Coordinate train movement and conditions affecting movements such as weather conditions, train crew availability, engine and equipment availability, track bulletins, general orders, and timetables
  • Perform various administrative duties related to customers system, documentation of train movements, proper paperwork, email and teams' correspondence.
  • Assist in all activities that support the operation of crew management to ensure that train job positions are filled to operate the railroad in a safe and efficient manner and that customer needs are met
  • Manage other projects and 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
  • Background in transportation, logistics or intermodal is a plus

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 eighteen 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 a specific entity set forth in the job posting.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Genesee & Wyoming Inc. and its subsidiary companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other protected status protected under federal, state or local laws.
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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