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Rail Transportation Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

Louisville, KY

$18 - $20/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 ...

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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 Jul 23, 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
Machine Operator - ATN

Machine Operator - ATN

OmniTRAX

Gadsden, AL • On-site

$14 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Machine Operator safely operates specialized machinery for railroad track construction or repair. Drives company vehicles and operates any heavy equipment needed for specified tasks designated by the Roadmaster. Performs other track maintenance related tasks as needed.
The Machine Operator demonstrates and adheres to the company values of: safety, honesty, ownership, respect and teamwork to ensure successful partnerships with customers and employees that result in OmniTRAX's continued success.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
  • Work safely in a construction field environment following safety rules; carry out work in manner that promotes safe work environment
  • Drive company vehicles including, but not limited to: Backhoe, Grapple Truck, Boom Truck and Tamper
  • Considered an expert in operating all CDL equipment, and handles all advanced operating duties
  • Perform CDL work to meet qualifications of the FMCSA Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Subpart B: Qualification and Disqualification of Drivers and other regulations as applicable, including but not limited to, Part §391.11
  • Raise rail: use track jack to facilitate removal and installation of railroad ties
  • Drill holes through rails for insertion of bolts: operate power drill
  • Operate track-wrench machine to tighten or loosen bolts at rail joints
  • Operate rail saw to cut rails to specified length
  • Operate spike pullers, spike drivers to perform construction and maintenance tasks associated with railroad tracks

OTHER DUTIES
  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries
  • Wear required protective equipment (PPE) such as: hard hats, hearing protection, safety-toe boots, safety glasses etc.
  • Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime and various shift work
  • Perform other duties and projects as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • None

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 1 year of track maintenance experience
  • 1 year of heavy equipment operation to include: Backhoe, Grapple Truck, Boom Truck and Tamper
  • Operate hand tools, including: wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, etc.
  • Operate power tools and hydraulic equipment, including: portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills
  • Apply commonsense understanding to carry out detailed, but uninvolved written or oral instructions
  • Perform concepts of basic shop math, calculate figures and amounts such as: area, circumference, length, distance, and volume
  • Write legible to complete routine reports, and complete required testing
  • Effectively communicate with all level of employees and business associates in a clear, concise and professional manner
  • Read, comprehend and comply with published rules, procedures and manuals, inspection checklists, government regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, memos and other work-related information
  • Familiar with FRA Track Safety standards
  • Familiar with Roadway Worker's Protection (RWP)
  • Demonstrate problem solving and troubleshooting skills resulting in effective resolution
  • Basic computer skills
  • Professional integrity and accountability
  • Work in fast-paced collaborative environment

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES
  • Valid CDL A Driver's License; pass medical certification and Drivers Qualification File, pass DOT Drug & Alcohol
  • Roadway Worker Protection Qualified

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Previous experience in Rail Transportation, Supply Chain Logistics, Manufacturing and/or Oil & Gas industries

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES
  • Qualify in Track Inspection as required by FRA

WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid or windy conditions caused by the weather including: snow, rain, heat and sub-freezing temps

TRAVEL
  • Daily travel as business requires during scheduled work hours

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Strength
Frequency
Weight/ Force
Side
Parameters
Occ
Freq
Cons
Height From
Height To
Lifting - "136-pound Plate"
X
18.9 lb
Two Hands
0 in
40 in
Lifting - Lining Bar
X
26 lb
Two Hands
0 in
40 in
Lifting - Claw Bar
X
30.7 lb
Two Hands
0 in
60 in
Lifting - Impact Wrench
X
31 lb
Two Hands
0 in
40 in
Lifting - Portable Derail
X
44.3 lb
Two Hands
0 in
40 in
Lifting - Track Jack
X
48.5 lb
Two Hands
0 in
40 in
Lifting - Compromise Bar (136/115)
X
53.8 lb
Two Hands
0 in
40 in
Lifting - 136-pound Angle Bar
X
56.1 lb
Two Hands
0 in
40 in
Lifting - 136-pound Angle Bar
X
58.8 lb
Two Hands
0 in
40 in
Lifting - Tools, Parts and Equipment
X
65 lb
Two Hands
0 in
60 in
Strength
Frequency
Weight/ Force
Side
Height
Rotation
Grip
Pattern
Hand
Spread
Occ
Freq
Cons
Pushing - Manual Track Wrench
X
106 lb
Two Hands
35 in
Neutral
Cylinder
Pushing - Spike Puller/Claw Bar
X
118.8 lb
Two Hands
Waist
Pronated
Hook
Pushing - Ergo Bow Switch
X
133.7 lb
Two Hands
35 in
Neutral
Cylinder
Pulling - Hydraulic Spike Driver
X
60.5 lb
Two Hands
26 in
Pronated
Cylinder
13 in
Pulling - Hydraulic Spike Puller
X
63.9 lb
Two Hands
34 in
Pronated
Cylinder
10 in
Pulling - Ergo Bow Switch
X
75.1 lb
Two Hands
35 in
Neutral
Cylinder
Pulling - High Stand Switch
X
87 lb
Two Hands
36 in
Pronated
Cylinder
Pulling - Rail Turner 39-foot Rail (90 lb)
X
88.3 lb
Two Hands
Waist
Neutral
Cylinder
Pulling - 10-Foot Tie with Tie Tongs
X
119.1 lb
Two Hands
30 in
Neutral
Hook
Pulling - Drag 10-Foot Tie with Tie Tongs
X
174.7 lb
Two Hands
25 in
Neutral
Hook
Upper Body
Frequency
Description
Occ
Freq
Cons
Reaching - Below Knee
X
Extending hand(s) and arm(s) below the level of the knee.
Reaching - Over Shoulder
X
Extending hand(s) and arm(s) above shoulder level.
Reaching - Knee to Shoulder
X
Extending hand(s) and arm(s) between knee and shoulder level.
Handling - Both
X
Seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with hands.
Fingering - Fine Motor Manipulation
X
Picking, pinching, or otherwise working primarily with fingers.
Cervical Flexion/Extension
X
Flexing and/or extending at the cervical spine.
Rotation - Cervical
X
Rotating at the cervical spine.
Rotation - Thoracic & Lumbar
X
Rotating at the thoracic and lumbar spine.
Lower Body
Frequency
Description
Occ
Freq
Cons
Sitting
X
Remaining in a seated position.
Standing
X
Remaining on one's feet in an upright position without moving about.
Walking
X
Moving about on foot. Walk on uneven surfaces.
Climbing
X
Ascending or descending between two points.
Balancing
X
Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling.
Stooping
X
Bending body forward by bending spine at the waist.
Kneeling - Two Knees
X
Bending legs at knees to come to rest on one or both knees.
Crouching/Squatting
X
Bending body downward and forward by bending legs and spine.
*Occ = Occasional; defined as 1-33% of a usual and customary workday.
*Freq = Frequent; defined as 34-66% of a usual and customary workday.
*Cons = Constant; defined as 67-100% of a usual and customary workday.
** Not all tasks required at each location. Position and physical demand is representative, but individualized assessment may be necessary.

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