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Rail Train Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ConGlobal

Train Supervisor

Elwood, IL · 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 ...

New

Patriot Rail

Conductor/Engineer LTRR

East Chicago, IN · On-site

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES CONDUCTOR • Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad ... as a transload operator. LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEER • Safely maintain responsibility for safe and ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Terminal Operator

Portage, IN

... the train list. * Must be able to be attentive and alert to safely operate door guns and car ... Must fully recognize hazards associated with rail and truck operations and take appropriate steps ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Terminal Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

... the train list. * Must be able to be attentive and alert to safely operate door guns and car ... Must fully recognize hazards associated with rail and truck operations and take appropriate steps ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Terminal Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

... the train list. * Must be able to be attentive and alert to safely operate door guns and car ... Must fully recognize hazards associated with rail and truck operations and take appropriate steps ...

Louis Dreyfus

Terminal Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

... the train list. * Must be able to be attentive and alert to safely operate door guns and car ... Must fully recognize hazards associated with rail and truck operations and take appropriate steps ...

DB E.C.O. North America

Senior Consultant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

Deep understanding of American freight railroad operations, capacity planning, and coordination between infrastructure owners and train operators. * Project management skills, including experience ...

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Rail Train Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$23

$36

How much do rail train operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail train operator in Chicago, IL is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $30.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 can include nights and weekends.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Train Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Rail Train Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
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Rail Train Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Train Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,326 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Rail Yard Laborer/Crane Operator

Pacific Rail Services

Northlake, IL • On-site

$19.50 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Pacific Rail Services rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

325th of 360 rated logistics

Job description

Pacific Rail Services was founded in 1985. Over the past 36 years, Rail Management Services has grown into one of the largest suppliers of intermodal ramp services in the United States handling over 8 million lifts per year. Today Pacific Rail Services, Pacific Trailer Repair Services, Rail Terminal Services, Terminal Switching Services and PRS Auto employ over 1,800 people devoted exclusively to this business. Rail Management Services maintains over 100 intermodal lift devices including 20 cranes and over 800 hostling tractors, provides trailer/container/chassis repairs and all intermodal administrative services including gate inspections, container yard management and switching services.

Job description:
Pacific Rail Services is seeking applicants for the Rail Yard Laborer position to join our ever-growing team. Copy and paste the below YouTube link to see what you could potentially be doing in this rewarding career field!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uriQMlaUUsI&feature=youtube.
Pacific Rail Services is looking for self-motivated, dependable and hard-working rail personnel to assist in the safe loading and unloading of intermodal double stack container trains at our Union Pacific Global II facility in Northlake IL.
Qualifications:
  • Construction or driving experience a plus, but we are willing to train the right candidates. Great earning potential of 60k - 90k (With OT), excellent health care benefits, employer 401k contribution and PTO based on years of service. 
  • Heavy equipment operating enthusiasts preferred. If you enjoy operating machinery or heavy equipment, then this is opportunity knocking at your door.  Applicants will be expected to apply themselves and learn all job functions (ground person, hostler driver and crane operator) in order to succeed with our organization. 
  • Prospective employees must be able to pass a drug screen, background check and strength test to be considered for appointment. All potential candidates must have valid DL and reliable transportation. All applicants must be available to work nights, weekends, holidays and OT.
  • If you are looking to work, grow and retire with a company in an industry that promotes long term stability, then look no further. The railroad industry is how everything we need and want ships throughout the country, which has made it virtually unaffected by slower economies or pandemics ect. We are considered essential workers.

We offer good pay, health benefits, PTO and 401k. If you seek job stability and room for growth, then a rewarding career opportunity awaits you.

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