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Rail Traffic Controller Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Mid-Atlantic Traffic Engineering Lead

Vienna, VA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

... rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly ... In addition, you will see that all work is planned, organized, controlled and evaluated through ...

Mid-Atlantic Traffic Engineering Lead

Vienna, VA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

... rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly ... In addition, you will see that all work is planned, organized, controlled and evaluated through ...

... controlling pollutants in air, water and soil. * Managers projects to ensure they are completed on ... Rail Road and Traffic management. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret MSHA regulations ...

Rail Traffic Controller information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$23

$40

How much do rail traffic controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail traffic controller in Virginia is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work schedules and environments for rail traffic controllers?

Rail Traffic Controllers often work in centralized control centers and must be prepared for shift work, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays, as rail systems operate 24/7. The role involves monitoring train movements, coordinating with crew members, and responding promptly to any disruptions or emergencies. Work environments are typically calm but require sustained attention and quick decision-making under pressure. Being part of a close-knit operational team, Rail Traffic Controllers collaborate closely with train crews, maintenance personnel, and other dispatchers to maintain safe and efficient rail operations.

How to become a rail traffic controller?

To become a rail traffic controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the employer or through a certification program. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential, and some positions may require passing a background check and obtaining safety certifications. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with railway operations and signaling systems is beneficial.

What is a rail traffic controller?

A Rail Traffic Controller is responsible for managing and coordinating train movements to ensure safe and efficient rail operations. They monitor train positions, communicate with train crews, and use signaling systems to control rail traffic. Their role involves responding to emergencies, adjusting schedules, and preventing collisions or delays. Rail Traffic Controllers often work in control centers and must stay focused in high-pressure situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail traffic controller?

To thrive as a Rail Traffic Controller, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in transportation operations, often supported by relevant certifications or on-the-job training. Familiarity with train control systems, dispatch software, and real-time communication equipment is essential. Exceptional situational awareness, multitasking abilities, and clear communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and timely coordination of rail traffic, critical for both passenger and freight operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Traffic Controller jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Rail Traffic Controller jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Traffic Controller jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Traffic Controller jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Rail Traffic Controller job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,392 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Mid-Atlantic Traffic Engineering Lead

HDR

Vienna, VA • On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'

We believe transportation is more than movement, it's the foundation of connected, thriving communities. As part of HDR's Transportation Business Group, you'll help shape the systems that move people and goods safely, efficiently, and sustainably. From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly support economic vitality, public safety, sustainable and resilient communities and quality of life. We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to solve complex mobility challenges with innovation, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of community needs. Whether you're modernizing aging infrastructure or pioneering next-generation transportation solutions, your contributions will help define the future of mobility. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead progress, drive meaningful impact, and leave a legacy of smarter, more connected transportation networks. We are all employee-owners at HDR, which is the foundation of our collaborative culture that connects employees around the world.

Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. 

In this role, we'll count on you to take responsibility for the daily operations of a growing production section including staff development, project management/oversight, quality control and marketing support. You will work cooperatively with other Section Leaders to deliver complex projects and initiatives. As the Section Leader, you will be directly involved with our clients and support in marketing planning, proposals and interviews. In addition, you will see that all work is planned, organized, controlled and evaluated through proactive project management system while implementing, monitoring, and supporting company policy. It is expected that you will be involved in both management and delivery of projects; therefore, the ability to design and deliver PS&E plans of traffic signals, maintenance of traffic, and signing and markings plans are required. An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must.

In the role of Mid-Atlantic Traffic Engineering Lead, we'll count on you to:

  • Provide programmatic and technical leadership for traffic engineering disciplines
  • Deliver project management for a variety of traffic engineering related project and contracts  
  • Guide program growth, client engagement and industry involvement
  • Establish client relations and be involved with marketing and client development activities
  • Prepare scopes and fees for a variety of contracts and projects
  • Collaborate with other disciplines on staff assignments and assignment priorities
  • Contract management
  • Team growth and mentorship of junior staff
  • Perform other duties as needed

Preferred Qualifications

  • A minimum of 10 years' experience in traffic engineering for urban and rural highways, major and minor interchanges and intersections
  • PE license in VA, DC or MD
  • Large project experience, such as interstates, freeways and highways
  • Experience on projects for VDOT, MDOT or DDOT
  • Diverse experience in related fields such as toll roads, ITS, roadway design, or construction is a plus
  • Computer skills including Synchro/SimTraffic, HCS, SignCAD, MicroStation, GuideSign, ORD, VISSIM, Transmodeler
  • Advanced certifications, such as PTOE, AICP, RSP1, or RSP 2 
  • Preference given to candidates currently residing in the Mid-Atlantic (VA/MD/DC) Area

#LI-MJ1

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
  • A minimum of 10 years experience
  • Professional registration, license or certification may be required based on role
  • Strong communication and listening skills
  • Ability to handle multiple assignments
  • Good leadership and organizational skills
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.


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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917