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Rail Transportation Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Rail Switching Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being ... Reliable transportation required * Strong attendance and dependability required * Ability to work ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician

Richmond, VA

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being ... Reliable transportation required * Strong attendance and dependability required * Ability to work ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician-Magna, UT

Magna, UT

$24 - $26/hr

Daily responsibilities include operating switches and brakes, coupling and uncoupling railcars ... transportation required Strong communication and teamwork skills Ability to follow safety rules ...

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Rail Transportation Operator information

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$19K

$56.4K

$129K

How much do rail transportation operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 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.

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.

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 Switching Technician

Rail Switching Technician

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Marmon Holdings rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Railserve
As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings-which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway-you'll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We're committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone's empowered to be their best.
Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Richmond to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment.
This is a full-time, hands-on role critical to the safe movement, placement, and switching of railcars to support customer operations and production schedules.
This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being part of a safety-focused team. Railserve provides training and opportunities for long-term career growth within rail
Who We Are
Railserve is a leading provider of industrial railyard services across the United States and Canada. Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive service and repair for customers who depend on safe, reliable rail operations every day. With decades of industry experience, Railserve is built on a foundation of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence. We invest in our people, promote from within, and use innovative, safety-focused technology to keep railyards running efficiently. Learn more at Railserve
Job Description
Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This role supports the timely and accurate switching, placement, and movement of railcars while maintaining compliance with company safety procedures and customer operating requirements.
Employees work in active industrial rail yard environments around locomotives, railcars, heavy equipment, and moving machinery. Daily responsibilities include operating switches and brakes, coupling and uncoupling railcars, inspecting equipment, and communicating movement instructions with crews and site leadership.
The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Strong attendance, communication skills, and a commitment to safety are critical for success in this role.
Railserve promotes from within and provides opportunities for advancement into leadership and skilled rail operations positions.
Schedule
  • Terminal operates from approximately 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • 8-hour shifts with overlapping crew schedules
  • Shift assignments based on operational needs
  • Overtime, weekends, and holidays may be required

Compensation
$18.50 to $20.50 per hour based on experience
Duties
  • Operate locomotives and rail equipment safely and efficiently
  • Perform railcar switching and placement according to operational schedules
  • Interpret train orders, signals, and operating procedures
  • Inspect locomotives prior to operation
  • Operate hand and ground throw switches, derails, and gates
  • Control equipment movement using radio communication, hand signals, and lanterns
  • Couple and uncouple railcars and connect air hoses
  • Apply and release hand brakes to secure equipment
  • Observe tracks and surroundings for safety hazards or obstructions
  • Handle train equipment safely using independent and automatic brakes
  • Assist in training new employees as needed
  • Complete reports related to delays, incidents, or operational activity
  • Lubricate and inspect locomotive components as required
  • Wear required personal protective equipment at all times
  • Follow company operating procedures and safety requirements
  • Perform additional operational duties as assigned

Job Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Reliable transportation required
  • Strong attendance and dependability required
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Ability to walk on uneven terrain and climb on rail equipment
  • Ability to lift, carry, and handle heavy equipment and materials
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities safely and effectively
  • Strong attention to detail and situational awareness
  • Must be able to successfully complete a physical, drug screen, and background check
  • Military experience is a plus

What We Offer (Benefits)
Railserve is committed to being an Employer of Choice, offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance
  • Company-paid sickness and accident income
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Annual safety shoe reimbursement
  • Prescription safety wear
  • Holiday pay
  • Vacation
  • Marmon employee discount program

Additional Information
  • Outdoor industrial rail yard environment
  • Exposure to locomotives, railcars, moving machinery, noise, dust, and varying weather conditions
  • Moderate to heavy physical labor required
  • Frequent walking, climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, and lifting
  • Required use of personal protective equipment
  • Safety-sensitive position requiring strict compliance with company and customer safety procedures

Grow With Us
Don't worry if you don't meet every qualification. Railserve values reliability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Our tools, technology, and processes continue to evolve, and we invest in training and developing our people for long-term success.
Railserve provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. We recruit, hire, train, promote, and compensate employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
#LI-DNI
Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to careers@marmon.com, and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.

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