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Rail Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Federal Railroad Administration

IA · On-site

$89K/yr

... rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to motive power and equipment. Qualifications: To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the ...

Federal Railroad Administration

IA · On-site

$89K/yr

... rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to motive power and equipment. Qualifications: To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the ...

Amsted Rail Company

Laborer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is currently seeking qualified individuals for the position of Laborer for our Keokuk foundry. PRINCIPLE ...

Amsted Rail Company

Laborer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is currently seeking qualified individuals for the position of Laborer for our Keokuk foundry. PRINCIPLE ...

Amsted Rail Company Inc

Laborer

Keokuk, IA

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is currently seeking qualified individuals for the position of Laborer for our Keokuk foundry. PRINCIPLE ...

Amsted Rail Company Inc

Laborer

Keokuk, IA

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is currently seeking qualified individuals for the position of Laborer for our Keokuk foundry. PRINCIPLE ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 2, 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 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 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 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 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 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,086 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Locomotive Switchman/Conductor

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Muscatine, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

At Cando, safety is more than a priority, it is the foundation of everything we do. We are seeking motivated, safety-focused professionals to join our team as a Switchman/Conductor supporting rail operations at a major chemical manufacturing facility.
This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic industrial environment where safety, teamwork, and precision are critical. If you enjoy working outdoors, staying active, solving problems, and contributing to essential supply chain operations, we encourage you to explore a career with Cando.
Cando is a North American leader in specialized rail operating services, providing industrial switching, short line operations, material handling, terminal and transload services, and customized rail solutions for customers across a variety of industries. As we continue expanding throughout the United States, we invite you to grow your career with us.
Why Join Cando?
  • Consistent work-life balance
  • Comprehensive technical and leadership development programs
  • Award-winning safety culture
  • Health and dental benefits, including voluntary coverage options.
  • A team-oriented environment focused on employee success and safety.

Position Summary
As a Switchman/Conductor, you will play a critical role in supporting safe and efficient railcar movements within a chemical plant operation. Collaborating closely with locomotive operators and plant personnel, you will ensure railcars containing raw materials and finished chemical products are moved safely, accurately, and in compliance with all operating regulations and site-specific safety requirements.
Success in this position requires strong situational awareness, a commitment to safety, exceptional teamwork, and the ability to perform physically demanding work in an industrial environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Safely coordinate and execute railcar switching operations within a chemical manufacturing facility.
  • Conduct thorough job briefings and communicate clearly with crew members to ensure safe train and locomotive movements.
  • Apply operating rules, special instructions, and switching procedures while serving as either a locomotive operator or ground crew member.
  • Operate switches and derails, couple and uncouple railcars, connect and disconnect air hoses, and apply or release hand brakes.
  • Handle railcar movements associated with the transportation of chemical products and materials while adhering to strict safety protocols.
  • Protect personnel, equipment, and infrastructure during all switching activities.
  • Conduct air brake tests and perform routine inspections of locomotives, railcars, tracks, and operating equipment.
  • Maintain compliance with all federal regulations, customer requirements, site-specific chemical plant procedures, and Cando operating standards.
  • Complete daily inspections, operational reports, logs, and required documentation accurately and on time.
  • Ensure locomotives and work areas remain safe, organized, and operationally ready.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service and maintain professional working relationships with plant personnel and stakeholders.
  • Participate in ongoing training, safety initiatives, and operational improvement programs.

Qualifications & Skills
  • Strong commitment to workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
  • Excellent communication, teamwork, and customer service skills.
  • Ability to read and interpret switching lists, operating procedures, safety documents, and work instructions.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently in a fast-paced industrial environment.
  • Comfortable using technology and computer applications, including Microsoft Outlook and Excel.
  • Ability to obtain required rail operating certifications and successfully complete drug, alcohol, and medical assessments.

Physical Requirements
This is a physically demanding role requiring the ability to:
  • Frequently climb on and off locomotives and railcars.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions year-round.
  • Lift, carry, and manipulate air hoses and rail equipment.
  • Operate hand brakes, switches, and derails.
  • Walk long distances on uneven surfaces and maintain awareness in an active industrial setting.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a Switchman, Conductor, Yard Operator, or Locomotive Operator.
  • Prior railroad, industrial switching, or rail transportation experience.
  • Experience working in a chemical plant, refinery, petrochemical facility, manufacturing plant, or other process-based industrial environment.
  • Familiarity with hazardous materials handling procedures and strict industrial safety standards.
  • Valid driver's license with a safe driving record.

Why This Role Matters
Rail operations are a critical component of the chemical industry's supply chain. As a Cando Switchman, you will help ensure the safe and efficient movement of materials that support manufacturing operations while working within a highly regulated environment where safety, reliability, and professionalism are essential to success.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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