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Rail Transportation Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Rail Operations Planner

Oakbrook Terrace, IL

$58K - $78K/yr

Support the development and execution of the annual rail operating plan in collaboration with Transportation, Deployment, Supply Planning, and other stakeholders. * Create and maintain weekly rail ...

Amrize

Rail Brakeman

Harpers Ferry, WV

The Rail Brakeman is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient movement, positioning, loading, and unloading of railcars while operating heavy equipment to transport, stockpile, and load ...

U.S. Army

Truck Driver

Columbus, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Transportation Operator (Truck Driver) - U.S. Army (Entry-Level, No Experience Needed) Full-time | ... Prepare vehicles for shipment by air, rail, or sea. What We Offer: * Pay: $40,000-$80,000 per year.

U.S. Army

Truck Driver

Xenia, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Transportation Operator (Truck Driver) - U.S. Army (Entry-Level, No Experience Needed) Full-time | ... Prepare vehicles for shipment by air, rail, or sea. What We Offer: * Pay: $40,000-$80,000 per year.

U.S. Army

Truck Driver

Lebanon, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Transportation Operator (Truck Driver) - U.S. Army (Entry-Level, No Experience Needed) Full-time | ... Prepare vehicles for shipment by air, rail, or sea. What We Offer: * Pay: $40,000-$80,000 per year.

CapMetro

Vice President, Rail Operations

Austin, TX · On-site

... operated organization for rail transportation and maintenance with contracting to a new contractor for maintenance of way and signal systems. This role is responsible for establishing the safety ...

CapMetro

Vice President, Rail Operations

Austin, TX

... operated organization for rail transportation and maintenance with contracting to a new contractor for maintenance of way and signal systems. This role is responsible for establishing the safety ...

CapMetro

Vice President, Rail Operations

Austin, TX · On-site

... operated organization for rail transportation and maintenance with contracting to a new contractor for maintenance of way and signal systems. This role is responsible for establishing the safety ...

ZXP Technologies

Rail Cart Operator

Highlands, TX · On-site

$20/hr

Operate rail carts to transport materials and equipment within the designated areas. * Perform pre-operation inspections to ensure rail carts are in safe working condition. * Follow all safety ...

U.S. Army

Mechanic

Fairfield, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Transportation Operator (Truck Driver) - U.S. Army (Entry-Level, No Experience Needed). Full-time | ... Prepare vehicles for transport by air, rail, or vessel. What We Offer: * Pay: $40,000-$80,000 per ...

U.S. Army

Mechanic

Hillsboro, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Motor Transportation Operator (Truck Driver) - U.S. Army. Full-time | Part-time | Enlistment ... Prepare vehicles for movement or shipment by air, rail, or vessel. Requirements: * Must be a U.S ...

OmniTRAX

Machine Operator - ATN

Gadsden, AL · On-site

$14 - $16.50/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Machine Operator safely operates specialized machinery for railroad track ... Previous experience in Rail Transportation, Supply Chain Logistics, Manufacturing and/or Oil & Gas ...

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All JobsRail Transportation Operator Jobs

Rail Transportation Operator information

See salary details

$19K

$56.4K

$129K

How much do rail transportation operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail transportation operator in the United States is $56,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Rail Transportation Operators?

Rail Transportation Operators are professionals responsible for operating trains and managing rail traffic. Their duties include driving trains, monitoring equipment, ensuring the safety of passengers and cargo, and following strict schedules and safety regulations. They may work on passenger or freight trains and often coordinate with other rail staff to ensure smooth and efficient rail operations. Rail Transportation Operators are vital for the safe and timely movement of goods and people on rail networks. They typically require specialized training and must adhere to strict safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by Rail Transportation Operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Rail Transportation Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict schedules, responding to unexpected track obstructions or weather conditions, and ensuring passenger or cargo safety at all times. Effective communication with dispatchers and other crew members is crucial for addressing emergencies and minimizing delays. Staying attentive and adhering to safety protocols helps operators manage these challenges while maintaining smooth rail operations. Ongoing training and experience also contribute to better problem-solving and adaptability in dynamic situations.

Is 55 too old to become a train driver?

Rail transportation operators, including train drivers, typically have age limits that vary by employer and region, but many companies accept applicants into their 50s if they meet health and certification requirements. Physical fitness, vision standards, and passing background checks are essential, and some employers value experience and maturity. Age alone is not usually a disqualifier if all other qualifications are met.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Rail transportation operators, such as train conductors and yardmasters, can earn around $4,000 per week with experience and seniority, often without requiring a college degree but needing specialized training and certifications. High-paying roles in transportation, logistics, or skilled trades may also reach this level through experience and union benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rail Transportation Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Transportation Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and formal on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and computerized dispatch platforms is essential. Strong communication, situational awareness, and stress management skills help operators coordinate with crew and handle unexpected situations. These skills ensure safe, efficient rail operations and effective response to emergencies or schedule changes.

What is the difference between Rail Transportation Operator vs Train Conductor?

AspectRail Transportation OperatorTrain Conductor
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, train operation licensesHigh school diploma, safety certifications, customer service training
Work EnvironmentOperate trains, monitor controls, ensure safetyManage passenger safety, coordinate boarding, oversee train operations
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, freight and passenger servicesPassenger rail services, commuter trains

While both roles are essential in rail transportation, the Rail Transportation Operator primarily focuses on operating and controlling trains, ensuring safety and adherence to schedules. The Train Conductor, on the other hand, manages passenger safety, ticketing, and customer service during train journeys. Both roles require safety certifications and are integral to rail industry operations.

How to become a rail operator?

To become a rail transportation operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete specialized training provided by the employer or a training program. Certification or licensing, such as a locomotive engineer license, may be required, along with a clean driving record and good communication skills. On-the-job training usually involves learning safety procedures, operating controls, and understanding signals and schedules.

How much does a railroad operator make?

Rail transportation operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the routes, required certifications, and shift schedules, with some positions offering additional benefits and overtime pay.
More about Rail Transportation Operator jobs
What states have the most Rail Transportation Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Transportation Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Transportation Operator jobs? For Rail Transportation Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Rail Transportation Operator jobs near you

Rail Operations Planner

''

Oakbrook Terrace, IL

$58K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Rail Operations Planner

Position Type: Regular - Full-Time

Grade:Grade 04

Requisition ID:42651

In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and passionate about creating exceptional work experiences - together. With a customer-first mindset, we make doing business with McCain easy.

About the role.
The Rail Operations Planner plays a critical role in supporting the execution, performance, and continuous improvement of McCain's North American rail transportation network. This position is responsible for coordinating day-to-day rail operations, ensuring shipments move efficiently and reliably while supporting McCain's broader rail growth strategy. The role requires strong analytical thinking, cross-functional collaboration, and a focus on operational excellence in a fast-paced supply chain environment.

What you'll be doing.

  • Support the development and execution of the annual rail operating plan in collaboration with Transportation, Deployment, Supply Planning, and other stakeholders.
  • Create and maintain weekly rail plans aligned with inventory needs, service requirements, railcar availability, and network constraints.
  • Coordinate daily rail shipment execution, including shipment setup, load release, tracking, communication, and delivery follow-up.
  • Partner with railroads, railcar lessors, warehouses, and internal teams to ensure timely movement of empty and loaded railcars.
  • Monitor active shipments and proactively manage exceptions such as delays, dwell issues, missed milestones, and service risks.
  • Collaborate with origin and destination facilities to ensure proper rail procedures and maximize railcar utilization.
  • Provide shipment visibility, status updates, and risk identification to Customer Solutions, Deployment, and Supply Chain teams.
  • Support cost management efforts through improved railcar utilization, dwell reduction, invoice accuracy, and cost avoidance initiatives.
  • Assist Accounts Payable with freight audit processes, ensuring accurate processing of rail invoices and accessorial charges.
  • Lead or support weekly and monthly rail performance reviews, identifying improvement opportunities across service, cost, and operations.
  • Utilize systems and reporting tools (SAP/S4, TMS, Power BI, Excel) to track performance and identify trends or gaps.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance reliability, visibility, scalability, and efficiency across the rail network.

What you'll need to be successful.

  • Minimum 3+ years of experience in Logistics, Transportation, Supply Chain, Rail Operations, or a related field.
  • Experience in rail shipping, private fleet management, rail operations, intermodal transportation, or similar areas.
  • University degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations, or equivalent experience.
  • Strong understanding of transportation execution, shipment tracking, and exception management.
  • Experience in CPG, food manufacturing, or temperature-controlled supply chains is preferred.
  • Advanced analytical skills with the ability to identify trends, risks, and actionable solutions.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with SAP/S4, TMS platforms, or Power BI.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across all levels of the organization.
  • High attention to detail, data accuracy, and follow-through.
  • Self-motivated, proactive, and comfortable working independently.
  • Team-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership and continuous improvement focus.

About the team.
The Rail Operations Planner is part of McCain's North American Transportation or Supply Chain team, working cross-functionally with Deployment, Customer Solutions, warehouses, Procurement, and external partners such as railroads and railcar lessors. This collaborative environment supports end-to-end rail execution and plays a key role in advancing McCain's rail growth strategy and operational performance.

About McCain.
Click Here to learn more about McCain and how we provide opportunities to make an impact that matters.

Leadership principles.
At McCain, our leadership principles guide how we engage with customers, collaborate as a team, and achieve success. We focus on understanding customer needs, driving innovation, empowering people, and taking ownership to clear obstacles and deliver results.

The McCain experience.
We are McCain. This statement is a testament to our collective strength and our individual value. Your contributions play a vital role in our success. Our winning culture is rooted in authenticity and trust, empowering us to bring out the best in one another. Here, you'll find opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. Join us and experience why we're better together.

#LI-DM2

Compensation Package:$58,800.00 - $78,500.00 . USD annually + Bonus eligibility

The above reflects the target compensation range for the position at the time of posting. Hiring compensation will be determined based on experience, skill set, education and training, and other organizational needs. This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Benefits: At McCain, we're on a mission to create a winning culture that puts employee safety and well-being at the heart of what we do, every day. We understand and appreciate that each person's needs are unique and ensure our benefits & well-being programs reflect that. Employees are eligible for the following benefits: health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription drug), retirement savings benefits, and leave support including medical, family and bereavement. Well-being programsinclude vacation and holidays, company-supported volunteering time, and mental health resources. Coverages are aligned with applicable law and can vary by work level, location, and nature of the role. Additional benefit detail available during the application process.

Your well-being matters to us, and we're here to provide you with the necessary resourcesto support you in being your best self at work - and at home.

McCain Foods is an equal opportunity employer. As a global family-owned company, we strive to be the employer of choice in the diverse communities around the world in which we live and work. We recognize that inclusion drives our creativity, resilience, and success and makes our business stronger. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

McCain is an accessible employer. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials or accessible meeting rooms), pleaselet us know and we will work with you to find appropriate solutions.

Your privacy is important to us. By submitting personal data or information to us, you agree this will be handled in accordance with McCain's Global Privacy Policyand Global Employee Privacy Policy, as applicable. McCain leverages AI in the hiring process, though all final decisions are made by humans. You can understand our approach to AI and how your personal information is being handled here.

Job Family:Supply Chain & Logistics
Location(s): US - United States of America : Illinois : Oakbrook Terrace

Company:McCain Foods USA, Inc.

Employment Type: OTHER

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