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Rail Train Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ConGlobal

Train Supervisor

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$56K - $75K/yr

The Railyard Train Supervisor will also provide direct oversight of the on-duty rail crew and ensure the execution of the daily operating plan. Additionally, you will coordinate railcar loading and ...

ConGlobal Industries LLC

Train Supervisor

Milpitas, CA · On-site

The Railyard Train Supervisor will also provide direct oversight of the on‑duty rail crew and ensure the execution of the daily operating plan. Additionally, you will coordinate railcar loading and ...

HARBOR RAIL SERVICES

Locomotive Engineer

Oro Grande, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Interpret and follow train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations. * Communicate ... Experience operating locomotives and rail yard equipment. * Knowledge of hand tools for minor ...

Arup

Rail Systems Integration Lead

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... train control, communications, SCADA, and how they interface with one another as well as other ... Develop and maintain strong client relationships with owners, project sponsors, operators ...

Arup

Rail Systems Engineering Lead

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... operators and maintainers, while navigating the transition to low carbon and resilient rail. You ... Electrification, Signaling and Train Control, Communications. • Own the design process of a multi ...

Union Pacific

Train Crew - Dunsmuir, CA

Dunsmuir, CA · On-site

Train Crew employees are responsible for providing the safe and timely movement of customers ... operating remote control locomotives, applying, and releasing hand brakes, riding rail cars ...

RailWorks

TAMPER OPERATOR

Stockton, CA · On-site

Inspects and maintains trucks and attached apparatuses such as hi-rail gear, tools, etc. * Operates ... Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine. Physical Requirements ...

Los Angeles Metro

RAIL TRACK SUPERVISOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$54.91 - $73.21/hr

Provides flagging assistance during revenue service periods to control local train movement ... Standard safety operating procedures for entering and working on track systems * Principles of ...

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Rail Train Operator information

What is a rail train operator?

A Rail Train Operator is responsible for operating trains safely and efficiently, following schedules and rail regulations. They control train speed, monitor track conditions, and communicate with dispatchers and station personnel. Operators must be attentive to signals, ensure passenger or cargo safety, and respond to emergencies if needed. The role requires specialized training and knowledge of railroad procedures, as well as strong focus and attention to detail.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a rail train operator?

To thrive as a Rail Train Operator, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, safety procedures, and mechanical systems, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with train control systems, communication devices, and sometimes specific licensure or certification (such as a conductor's license) is important. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this field. These capabilities ensure the safe, efficient, and timely movement of trains while maintaining high safety standards and reliable service.

What is the typical work environment for a rail train operator?

Rail Train Operators usually work in a fast-paced environment that involves operating trains on set schedules, often during nights, weekends, or holidays. The role requires spending extended periods in locomotive cabs, maintaining constant communication with dispatchers, signal operators, and other railway personnel to ensure safe and efficient train movement. Operators may face varying weather conditions and must remain vigilant throughout their shifts. Working as part of a larger team, Rail Train Operators play a critical role in upholding safety procedures and synchronizing efforts with maintenance and support staff. This collaborative, safety-focused environment provides ample opportunities for skill development and career growth within the rail industry.

How do I get into a rail train operator?

To become a rail train operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and completion of specialized training provided by the employer or a certified training program. Certification or licensing from relevant transportation authorities is often required, along with a clean driving record and good communication skills. Prior experience with operating heavy machinery or vehicles can be beneficial.

How much do rail train operators make?

Rail train operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often require certification and operate trains in various environments, working shifts that may include nights and weekends.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Train Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Rail Train Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Train Operator jobs in California?

For Rail Train Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Train Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Train Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Rail Train Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Rail Train Operator job openings:

Rail Train Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Train Operator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Terminal Rail Transload Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA • On-site

Plastic Express
See more jobs at Plastic Expressexternal

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Plastic Express rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company Overview
Come join a winning Team! Since 1970 Plastic Express has met the bulk trucking, bulk terminal, packaging, and warehousing needs of the plastics industry. Our strategic locations, modern systems, and dedicated employees allow us to provide custom tailored logistical solutions to fulfill the most challenging needs of our customers. Plastic Express operates from 22 full-service facilities, more than 40 bulk terminals, and 52 railcar terminals offering more than 8,500 railcar spots across the country. We are located near 9 major ports in the U.S. and rely heavily on our rail infrastructure to handle imports /exports as well as regional distribution. At many of the Plastic Express sites, we also handle some non-plastic commodities, which include; paper rolls, steel, building materials and other dry bulk materials. Plastic Express owns and operates roughly 250 trucks, with approximately 250 trailers performing full bulk truck distribution business. Plastic Express is headquartered in Houston, TX and has over 600 employees nationwide. Our goal has always been to exceed our customer's expectations, and our can do-attitude is what differentiates us from the competition.
Plastic Express employees have always been our key to success and total customer satisfaction. We are always looking for dependable & talented business professionals that will help us to grow and to continue our "Can Do" tradition.
Essential Functions:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Job Summary:
With reporting responsibilities to the Terminal Rail Manager or designee, this position is responsible for working outdoor in a railcar storage and transload terminal, interpreting train orders with local switch crew, railyard traffic, and rules associated to local, FRA & OSHA regulations; handling of food grade and plastic resin materials; timely submittal and correct railcar inventory with accurate placement of rail cars; verify proper alignment for product transfer between railcars and bulk trucks and other essential rail functions in a safety sensitive and production environment
Essential Functions/Duties:
  • Effectively Inventory and manage the placement of railcars for product transfer from hopper/tank cars to bulk trucks.
  • Keys data into a hand-held tablet.
  • Verifies railcar identifiers with driver loading instructions to ensure accuracy and quality.
  • Inspects railcars for leaks and exterior damage upon placement at and release from the railyard.
  • Ensures all railcars are properly sealed and documents data when released.
  • Effectively & professionally communicates with on-site vendors, 3rd party contractors, customers and employees.
  • Assist with general clean up duties within the railyard and facility (general maintenance, landscaping, and painting.)
  • Reads gauges, pressure valves, fuel levels and other related mechanical instruments to maintain good working order.
  • Operates diesel powered conveyor in loading pneumatic bulk trailers.
  • Ability to handle and connect hoses, transfer pumps, portable fall protection, re-fuel machinery, lift/move heavy machinery.
  • Operates pumps and turns valves on railcars.
  • Inspects all company and vendor provided equipment before and after use using preferred inspection logs.
  • Sample customer specific products and keeps records.
  • Reports any unsafe and non-working mechanical devices, machinery, tools, and or vehicles to management staff.
  • Uses basic computer skills including, Microsoft Word, Excel and Email.
  • Reports and clean all railyard spills as required by published company policy guidelines to management staff.
  • Must wear personal protective equipment by published company policy guidelines at all times.
  • Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted and or changed at any time at the discretion of the management.
  • Perform other duties as may be required from time to time.

Qualifications:
  • Must be able to safely operate a motorized vehicles such as forklift, ariel lifts, golf carts, etc.
  • Must have a valid state issued driver license.
  • Must have the ability to think independently and make decisions that are in the company's best interest.
  • Must have excellent interpersonal, communications, and organizational skills.
  • Must be multi-task oriented with the ability to handle many activities simultaneously.
  • Ability to recognize onsite risk factors and take appropriate action with firmness and tact.

Required Education and Experience
  • Minimum education required is a high school diploma or equivalent.
Preferred Education and Experience
  • Minimum 1 year of relevant transload or material handling experience preferred.

Physical Demands
  • Must be able to perform physical labor such as; lifting up to 55 lbs., moving up to 250 pounds, climbing ladders, operate control panels and working with hand tools.
  • Must be able use fingers, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk and/or hear.
  • Employee must possess vision abilities required by this job function to include close visual confirmation of finely printed documents, have distance vision to safely and correctly identify objects and or markings.
  • Must have peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to focus on subjects or objects at any safe working distance

Licenses/Certificates: Valid driver license.
Skills:
  • Basic Math skills. Ability to perform basic mathematical equations.
  • Have mechanical, operational, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to complete written documents and records using pen and paper as well as computers.
  • Excellent communication, written and grammatical skills in English, Spanish a plus.
  • Strong Safety awareness.
  • Proven success with working in a team environment.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously without constant supervision.
  • Customer service oriented.
Additional Job Details:
Supervisory Responsibility: None
Work Environment:
  • Exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid or windy conditions caused by the weather including rain, heat and cold temps; loud noise and fumes from gas, oil and grease and food grade sensitive materials.
  • Working at heights using harnessed fall protection and safety equipment.
  • Expected to performing essential rail functions in a safety sensitive and production environment in and around the process plant, transload yard and railyard.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
  • Full-time / rotating schedule as needed to cover staffing & customer demands. Shifts are subject to the modification/adjustment based the site workload and production scheduled rates.
  • Must be available to work at all hours including Saturdays and Sundays as required.
Compensation: $23.00 per hour, non-exempt
Travel: None
Compensation:
  • $22.00 to $24.00 per hour, based on experience
Benefits and Perks:
  • Family health benefit packages - after 90 days
  • Vacation pay - after 90 days
  • Holiday pay - after 90 days
  • Company matching 401k retirement program - after 90 days

Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted and/or changed at any time at the discretion of management.
In line with Plastic Express' Environmental Promise, the hired individual is expected to enthusiastically support all facets of Operation Clean Sweep; specifically, making a conscious effort to prevent pellet, flake and powder loss into the environment and ensure any spills are swiftly and effectively cleaned up.
If you have an interest in working at Plastic Express, please forward your resume including a brief work history.

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