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Rail Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sperry Rail, Inc.

CDL Driver (CN)

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Sperry Rail is on a mission-critical journey to revolutionize the Rail Flaw Detection industry. Through the continuous development of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and AI-assisted analysis, we ...

Patriot Rail

Engineer/Conductor KJRY

Keokuk, IA

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA); To always review instructions ...

Patriot Rail

Engineer/Conductor KJRY

Keokuk, IA · On-site

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA); To always review instructions ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsRail JobsRail Jobs in Iowa

Rail information

See Iowa salary details

$19

$24

$28

How much do rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail in Iowa is $24.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail worker?

Rail workers are professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing railway systems, including trains, tracks, and related infrastructure. They may work as train operators, conductors, track maintenance workers, signal operators, or in other supporting roles. Their duties ensure the safe and efficient movement of passengers and freight by rail. Rail workers often work in shifts and may need to respond to emergencies or perform inspections to ensure safety standards are met.

What is the difference between Rail vs Train Conductor?

AspectRailTrain Conductor
CredentialsVaries; often includes safety certifications and rail industry trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety and operational training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, maintenance facilities, and sometimes on the rail tracksOnboard trains, stations, and depots
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, freight and passenger rail servicesPassenger train services, rail companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Rail workers and Train Conductors operate within the rail industry, Rail roles often involve maintenance, safety, and yard operations, whereas Train Conductors focus on passenger service and train operation. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right career path in the rail industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in the rail industry, and how can they be addressed?

Rail industry professionals often encounter challenges such as strict safety regulations, tight project deadlines, and the need to coordinate with multiple teams, including operations, maintenance, and engineering. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Building a solid understanding of regulatory requirements and fostering a collaborative work environment can help professionals effectively manage daily responsibilities and contribute to the smooth operation of rail services.

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

To thrive as a Rail Engineer, you need a solid background in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering, often with a relevant degree and professional accreditation. Familiarity with CAD software, railway signaling systems, and safety regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you coordinate with multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of rail infrastructure.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Rail jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Rail jobs in Iowa? For Rail jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Rail jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Rail jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Rail job openings:
Rail jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,086 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Experienced Rail Switching Technician

PSC Group, Human Resources

Clinton, IA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

PSC Group rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 117 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 360 rated logistics

Job description

Experienced Rail Switching Technician
PSC Group is hiring dependable, safety-minded individuals to join our Rail Switching team. This full-time position involves working outdoors to safely move railcars within an industrial facility, supporting day-to-day operations in a critical logistics role. We offer paid training, great benefits, and long-term career opportunities with a company that takes pride in promoting from within. If you're looking for a hands-on job in a fast-paced environment with a strong focus on safety and teamwork, we encourage you to apply.
Job Duties & Responsibilities:
• Reviews track lists to identify and organize railcars for spotting, separating, loading, or outbound movement
• Ensures railcars are properly connected and secured by setting brakes and verifying couplings
• Separates loaded cars for shipment from preloaded or empty railcars
• Weighs inbound and outbound cars to confirm compliance with weight limits
• Performs additional duties as needed to support safe and efficient rail operations
Job Qualifications:
  • Must have prior experience as a Rail Switching Technician or Equivalent rail operations experience
  • Experience in safely moving and securing railcars is required
  • May require a valid Driver's License and / or a valid TWIC card, depending on work location
  • 18 years or older and legally able to work in the U.S.
  • Pass a drug screen, physical, and background check
  • Wear all required PPE without restriction and pass any required medical exams
  • Speak, write, read fluent English
  • Regular on-site attendance and punctuality is required
  • Previous military experience and proven ability to follow procedures is a plus

Work Schedule:
8 - 12 Hour Day Shift (Some weekends required)
Why join the PSC team?
  • Since 1952, PSC Group has had a strong reputation for quality service, safety, environmental protection, and taking care of our employees.
  • We are a leader in product handling and site logistics for refineries, chemical producers, and marine transportation providers.
  • The work we do makes a huge impact in our nation's economy. Check out our videos at PSC Group - Career Videos to learn more.
  • Check out our online newsletter "The Connection" which contains articles about our work groups, recognition events, and achievements of our employees and their family members at PSC Group - Newsletter.
  • Our Core Values serve as the foundation for all we do-how we conduct our business, serve our customers, and treat members of our PSC family. Learn more at PSC Group - Core Values.

Employee Benefits:
  • Medical insurance options with the company paying a large portion of the premiums, including affordable dental and vision plans for employees and their families
  • Company-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance
  • Matching 401(k) plan to help employees save money for retirement
  • Vacation, sick leave, and holiday benefits (varies by work group)
  • Incentives, discounts, and bonuses
  • Industry-leading training and development programs

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The above job description does not reflect all essential job functions or physical requirements.
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
PSC Group, formerly known as Petroleum Service Corporation, is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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