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Rail Unloader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Unloader

Hughson, CA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Rail Unloader Reporting to the Production Supervisor, the Rail Unloader is responsible for performing a semi-skilled labor with regard to all aspects of mill maintenance and operations ensuring ...

Rail Unloader

Turlock, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Rail Unloader Department: Production Location: Turlock, CA Full/Part-Time: Full Time Regular/Temporary: Regular FLSA Status: Non-exempt (hourly) Shift: Day Salary Range: $18.00 to $23.00 per hour.

SUMMARY Reporting to the Production Supervisor, the Rail Unloader is responsible for performing a semi-skilled labor with regard to all aspects of mill maintenance and operations ensuring ...

Rail Unloader

Turlock, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $23/hr

SUMMARY Reporting to the Production Supervisor, the Rail Unloader is responsible for performing a semi-skilled labor with regard to all aspects of mill maintenance and operations ensuring ...

Rail Unloader

Turlock, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $23/hr

SUMMARY Reporting to the Production Supervisor, the Rail Unloader is responsible for performing a semi-skilled labor with regard to all aspects of mill maintenance and operations ensuring ...

VDC Rail Unloader

Wylie, TX ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

VDC RAIL UNLOADER Who we are: AMPORTS has been a leader in the global automotive service industry for over 60 years. With multiple locations in the United States and Mexico, AMPORTS is one of the ...

VDC Rail Unloader

Wylie, TX ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

VDC RAIL UNLOADER Who we are: AMPORTS has been a leader in the global automotive service industry for over 60 years. With multiple locations in the United States and Mexico, AMPORTS is one of the ...

VDC Rail Unloader

Wylie, TX ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

VDC RAIL UNLOADER Who we are: AMPORTS has been a leader in the global automotive service industry for over 60 years. With multiple locations in the United States and Mexico, AMPORTS is one of the ...

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Rail Unloader information

See salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do rail unloader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail unloader in the United States is $15.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Rail Unloader, you need physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and experience in logistics or freight handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with material handling equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and sometimes computerized inventory systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and reliability help individuals excel in coordinating with crew members and adapting to changing workloads. These skills ensure safe, efficient unloading operations and minimize delays or accidents in rail transportation environments.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired as a rail unloader can be competitive, but many positions are available with the right physical fitness, ability to work in a team, and willingness to perform manual labor. Employers often require background checks and safety training, and some roles may prefer prior experience or certifications in material handling or safety procedures.

How much do you get paid to unload trucks?

Rail unloaders typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Overtime pay may apply for extended shifts, and physical stamina is important for handling heavy cargo and working in a warehouse environment.

Who loads and unloads trains?

Rail unloaders or train loaders are responsible for loading and unloading cargo from trains. They typically operate specialized equipment such as forklifts, conveyor belts, or cranes in rail yards or freight terminals. These workers often follow safety protocols and may need certifications for operating heavy machinery.

What is the highest paying job on the railroad?

The highest paying jobs on the railroad typically include positions such as railroad managers, dispatchers, and certain specialized roles like signal maintainers or locomotive engineers with extensive experience. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and they tend to offer higher salaries compared to entry-level positions like rail unloaders. Rail unloader jobs generally have lower pay compared to these higher-level roles in the industry.

What are some of the typical safety protocols Rail Unloaders need to follow during their shifts?

Rail Unloaders are responsible for adhering to strict safety protocols to ensure their well-being and the safe handling of cargo. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as steel-toed boots, gloves, and high-visibility clothing, as well as following lockout/tagout procedures before working on railcars. They must also stay alert to moving equipment and communicate clearly with team members and train operators to coordinate unloading activities safely. Regular safety training and adherence to company guidelines are crucial to minimize accidents and keep operations running smoothly.

What is the difference between Rail Unloader vs Dock Worker?

AspectRail UnloaderDock Worker
CredentialsMay require OSHA safety training, forklift certificationLikewise, OSHA safety training, forklift or crane operation certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, freight terminals, industrial sitesPorts, shipping docks, warehouses
Industry UsageFreight rail industry, logisticsMaritime, shipping, logistics

Both Rail Unloaders and Dock Workers operate in logistics and freight handling environments, often requiring safety certifications and operating similar equipment. The main difference lies in their work settings: Rail Unloaders focus on unloading trains in rail yards, while Dock Workers handle cargo at ports and shipping docks. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the logistics industry.

What does a Rail Unloader do?

A Rail Unloader is responsible for unloading goods and materials from railcars at rail yards or distribution centers. They use specialized equipment such as forklifts, cranes, or conveyors to safely and efficiently remove cargo from trains. Rail Unloaders must follow safety protocols, inspect shipments for damage, and sometimes assist with documentation or inventory. Their work is essential to keeping supply chains moving and ensuring goods reach their final destinations. Physical stamina, attention to detail, and teamwork are important skills in this role.
More about Rail Unloader jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Unloader jobs? Cities with the most Rail Unloader job openings:
What states have the most Rail Unloader jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Unloader jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rail Unloader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,139 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Rail Unloader

Associated Feed

Hughson, CA โ€ข On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Rail Unloader

Reporting to the Production Supervisor, the Rail Unloader is responsible for performing a semi-skilled labor with regard to all aspects of mill maintenance and operations ensuring optimization of production to manufacture feed.

Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Utilize computer programmed routing system to convey and further manufacture feed
  • Assist in the completion of minor maintenance work in order to maintain production until a permanent fix can be put into place by maintenance personnel
  • Maintain required documentation associated with all departments
  • Inspect and unplug chutes
  • After appropriate training, operate all process equipment including powered industrial vehicles
  • Assist in start-up and shut down of operations
  • Assist in the troubleshooting of processes and equipment operation and provide in-put for corrective actions
  • Perform general housekeeping of production area to meet OSHA standards, as well as a clean and safe working environment
  • Climb ladders up to 100 feet to perform maintenance and inventory duties

Additional responsibilities:

  • Perform related duties and/or special projects as assigned

Skills & Competencies:

  • Methods and techniques for safe work practices
  • Forklift operation and heavy machinery experience desired
  • Basic recordkeeping practices

Ability to:

  • Perform basic computer operations using Windows, Word, Excel, SAP
  • Work in confined spaces and at high elevations
  • Perform daily safety inspections and identify safety hazards
  • Work flexibly and varying work schedules and overtime as needed
  • Perform basic mathematical problems (add, subtract, multiply, divide)
  • Work independently with minimal supervision
  • Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers and customers
  • Follow written and verbal instructions; problem solve
  • Communicate effectively in English (verbal/written)
  • Complete written work orders legibly and keep records to coordinate feed schedules
  • Contribute to a positive work environment
  • Demonstrate good organization skills

Minimum job requirements, experience and training guidelines:

  • High school diploma or equivalent, or equivalent work experience
  • One (1) to two (2) years' work experience in a warehouse/industrial/production environment
  • Ability to lift/carry up to 75 pounds up to 100 feet (e.g., sack feed bag)
  • Previous feed/agricultural experience desired
  • Basic computer skills
  • Work varying shifts including weekends, holidays and overtime

Special demands physical requirements:

  • Frequent standing for long period of time
  • Frequent bending, squatting and kneeling
  • Frequent lifting and carrying of up to 75 pounds up to 100 feet
  • Frequent grasping, holding and reaching
  • Constant use of overall vision
  • Frequent hearing and talking in person; may be required to wear ear protection or hear in noisy conditions
  • Frequent co-worker contact; occasional working alone
  • Frequent exposure to loud noise
  • Job requirements for rail unloading 23 years of age and up, with valid driver's license
  • Participation in random drug/alcohol DOT testing program is required

Working conditions:

  • Work may be performed inside or outside in hot and cool temperatures and a noisy environment. May be exposure to loud noises and steam exhaust, and dusty, muddy and slick environment. Adhere to all PPE Guidelines as established by OSHA and the company

Note: Job descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Our company is an equal opportunity employer committed to non-discriminatory employment practices abiding by the regulations as outlined by the EEOC. This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.