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Rail Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance ... Working Conditions All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all ...

Basic knowledge and good safety record in working in an industrial setting. * Good understanding of Rail Track switching &Track Systems. * Good understanding of Train air &Brake systems as well as ...

Summary King County Metro is seeking multiple Rail Utility Service Workers who will be responsible for cleaning and light maintenance of the interior and exterior of Link Light Rail vehicles, shop ...

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance ... Working Conditions All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all ...

Rail Operator

Canon City, CO

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance ... Working Conditions All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all ...

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 ... Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction ...

Rail Operator Position open until filled or 06.29.2026 The NOTS Logistics Difference When you ... We treat our Co-Workers, Clients and Customers like family - we'll do the same for you. We work ...

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on outdoor work, working around heavy ... Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction ...

Track Worker

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$21/hr

Road & Rail Services is hiring Track Workers / Equipment Operators to support railroad track maintenance projects across multiple states. This is a travel-based position-you will be working outdoors ...

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

Starting hourly wage for all new Rail Operators joining Energy Transfer is $28.75 Essential Duties ... Ensure facility buildings, equipment, and surrounding areas are in safe and clean working ...

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Rail Worker information

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How much do rail worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail worker in the United States is $21.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a railroad worker?

To become a railroad worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require specialized training or certifications. Applicants often undergo background checks, drug testing, and physical assessments, and on-the-job training is common for roles such as conductors, engineers, or maintenance workers.

What are some common challenges rail workers face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Rail workers often encounter challenges such as working outdoors in various weather conditions, handling physically demanding tasks, and maintaining strict safety protocols. To address these, employers provide comprehensive safety training, personal protective equipment, and regular breaks. Additionally, teamwork and clear communication are emphasized to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay around $2,000 a day are highly specialized or senior-level roles, such as certain executive positions, specialized medical professionals, or high-level consultants. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries like finance, law, or engineering. Such positions typically involve significant responsibility and may require long hours or unique qualifications.

How much money do you make as a railroad worker?

Railroad workers typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000, with wages varying based on experience, location, and specific roles such as conductors or engineers. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced workers or those in supervisory roles can earn over $80,000 annually.

What qualifications do you need to be a railway worker?

Railway workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant technical training or certifications. Physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a team environment are also important; some roles may require specialized licenses or safety training.

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

To thrive as a Rail Worker, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, mechanical aptitude, and physical fitness, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as rail track inspection equipment, signaling systems, and safety procedures is essential, and some roles may require specialized certifications like OSHA training. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure safe, efficient rail operations and help prevent accidents or service disruptions.

What is the difference between Rail Worker vs Train Conductor?

AspectRail WorkerTrain Conductor
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma; safety and operational training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance sitesOnboard trains, stations, terminals
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, freight and passenger companiesPassenger rail services, commuter trains
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Rail workers perform maintenance, track inspection, and safety tasks in rail yards and along tracks, ensuring the infrastructure is operational. Train conductors primarily operate onboard trains, managing passenger safety, ticketing, and communication with the crew. While both roles are essential in the rail industry, rail workers focus on infrastructure and safety, whereas train conductors handle train operations and passenger service.

What are rail workers?

Rail workers are professionals who build, maintain, and repair railway tracks, trains, and related infrastructure. Their duties include inspecting tracks, operating track-laying machinery, fixing signals, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains. Rail workers may specialize in different areas such as track maintenance, train operation, or signal and communication systems. Their work is essential for the safety and reliability of rail transportation systems. Rail workers often work outdoors and may be required to work nights, weekends, and in all weather conditions.
More about Rail Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Worker jobs? Cities with the most Rail Worker job openings:
What states have the most Rail Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Worker jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rail Worker job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,035 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Rail Operator

Rail Operator

Martin Marietta

Canon City, CO

$26.90 - $36.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

303rd of 521 rated manufacturers


Job description

JOB SUMMARY 
The Rail Operator is a critical member of the Martin Marietta/Rock & Rail LLC logistics team, responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable movement of freight trains, aggregates, and materials within our quarry, plant, and yard rail networks. The Rail Operator oversees yard switching, railcar spotting, and tracking inventory compliance. This role requires strict adherence to Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) guidelines, and Martin Marietta/ Rock & Rail LLC rigorous "Safety First" corporate culture. The objective is to facilitate seamless supply chain distribution while ensuring zero incidents in a highly demanding, safety-sensitive industrial environment. 
 
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 
  • Direct and execute safe ground-level switching, coupling, and uncoupling operations of railcars to facilitate efficient material loading and unloading. 
  • Manually align and operate track switches and derail devices, ensuring proper switch point alignment prior to authorizing train movements. 
  • Safely ride on the exterior ladders and grab irons of moving rail equipment for extended periods during pushing and shoving movements. 
  • Coordinate the exact spotting and staging of heavy aggregate cars at distribution yards, loading chutes, and under unloader mechanisms. 
  • Ensure 100% compliance with all train orders, signals, railroad operating rules, FRA regulations, and MSHA standards. 
  • Perform comprehensive physical inspections of railcars, air brake hoses, safety appliances, and couplings prior to train departure to detect defects. 
  • Conduct routine field repairs on railcars as needed, including replacing broken knuckle couplers and swapping out worn air brake hoses. 
  • Monitor track conditions for anomalies such as broken rails, debris, defective switches, or weather-related hazards to prevent derailments. 
  • Act as the primary ground communicator, utilizing clear and precise radio transmissions, hand signals, and lantern signals to direct train speed and distance. 
  • Review, interpret, and execute daily switch lists, bulletins, and work orders. 
  • Maintain accurate paper or digital records of railcar movements, mechanical defect reports, tracking manifests, and billing handoffs. 
  • Strictly enforce Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures when performing minor mechanical adjustments and assist in maintaining clean, debris-free rail paths. 
  • Correctly wear and maintain all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including steel-toed boots, high-visibility vest, hard hat, and protective eyewear at all times. 
 
QUALIFICATIONS 
Education 
High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience 
Vocational training or equivalent experience is preferred. 
Valid State Driver’s License  
Work Experience 
1+ year of direct Railroad experience as a Rail Operator 
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 
Safety focused 
Comply with all railroad rules, regulations, and instructions 
Knowledge of machines and tools 
Equipment maintenance 
Inspection and maintenance procedures 
Preventative maintenance procedures 
Problem solving skills 
Detail oriented 
Time management 
Effective communicator (written and spoken) 
 
ADDITIONAL DETAILS 
Physical Requirements 
Must be able to lift and carry up to 150 lbs. for maintenance and equipment servicing. 
Required to bend, stoop, climb, and reach. You must be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders. 
Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. You must have good depth perception with or without seeing aid for distances up to 150 feet. 
Distinguish and interpret color signals and switch indicators. 
Working Conditions 
All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all weather conditions, cold, wet, dry and dusty. Must be able to work in areas where noise levels are up to 85 dbs.  
Disclaimers 
In addition to the primary responsibilities outlined, the successful candidate may be expected to take on other tasks and assignments as required, including but not limited to duties outside the typical scope of the role to support overall team operations and organizational needs. Flexibility and adaptability to evolving job demands are essential. 
 
COMPENSATION
The hiring range for this position is $26.90 -$36.40; exclusive of benefits or bonuses (discretionary and non-discretionary). The offered base compensation will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, business need, market conditions, proficiencies, skills, education, and experience. Additionally, at Martin Marietta we place a high value on internal pay equity and will consider the compensation for those in similarly situated roles and direct team members. The hiring range for this role represents the base compensation we expect to pay for the position at time of hire and does not represent the total possible base pay of the position.
 
In addition to our base compensation, we also offer a competitive benefits package for full-time employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage; prescription drug coverage; health savings accounts; flexible spending accounts; life, AD&D and disability insurance; 401(k) with a company match and an employer-funded defined benefit pension plan. Other benefits include paid time off, paid holidays, education/tuition assistance, an employee discount program, adoption assistance, wellness programs and more.
Part time employees are eligible to participate in the 401k plan and receive a company match. In addition, they are eligible to start accruing service for the pension plan.

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About Martin Marietta

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1994