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Rail Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

$32.31/hr

Dry Grind Rail Loader/Unloader - Cedar Rapids, IA $1,500 Sign-on Bonus! Pay Range: $31.31 - $34.57 * On-Shift Starting Pay: $31.31 ($28.76 + 2.55-Shift Differential) * Locomotive Qualification: $32 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Rail information

See Iowa salary details

$19

$24

$28

How much do rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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 cities in Iowa are hiring for Rail jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Rail job openings:

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.

Dry Grind Rail Loader/Unloader - Cedar Rapids, IA

Archer Daniels Midland

On-site

$32.31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 366 rated logistics


Job description

Dry Grind Rail Loader/Unloader - Cedar Rapids, IA
$1,500 Sign-on Bonus!
Pay Range: $31.31 - $34.57
  • On-Shift Starting Pay: $31.31 ($28.76 + 2.55-Shift Differential)
  • Locomotive Qualification: $32.31 ($29.76 + 2.55-Shift Differential)
  • Operator Qualification: $34.57 ($32.02 + 2.55-Shift Differential)
  • Annual performance-based raises
  • Additional pay increases for cross-training
Shift: 12-Hour rotating days & nights
ADM is a part of the production of 30% of the food supply globally, on average you touch at least 7 items per day made with ADM ingredients. Everyone who works here is a big part of feeding the world. Learn more about ADM here: https://www.adm.com/.
Why Join?
  • Weekly Pay
  • Benefits Start Day 1
  • Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Personal Days (Vacation & Sick Time Effective Day 1)
  • 9 Company Paid Holidays
  • 401k with up to 5% Company Match
  • Cash Balance Plan (Pension)
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Prescription Drug Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts & Health Savings Account
  • Company Paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Plan
  • Company Paid Life Insurance & Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouse, & Children
  • Parental Leave Program
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Company provided work boots, uniforms, and other PPE (personal protective equipment)
The Dry Grind Rail Loader/Unloader is responsible for the loading and unloading of products at the Dry Grind facility (corn, ethanol, DDGS, and Corn Oil). The Dry Grind Rail Loader/Unloader is responsible for the safe operation of a locomotive and other motorized heavy equipment and ensuring efficient management of inventory.
Responsibilities:
  • Loads railcars and trucks with ethanol, DDGS, and corn oil following department guidelines and enters data into computerized inventory management systems.
  • Unloads corn trucks and railcars and sends product to appropriate grain elevator storage.
  • Inspects railcars and trucks before and after loading to ensure safety and quality standards are met.
  • Operates motorized heavy equipment, including locomotives, skid steers, front-end loaders, JLG boom lifts, scissor lifts, articulating boom lights, and telehandlers.
  • Monitors truck driver unloading of products and partners with truck drivers to ensure the safe loading and unloading of product in the facility.
  • Manages rail yard Inventory through the movement and placement of railcars and ensures accuracy of inventory.
  • Collects in-process samples at appropriate collection times, conducts laboratory testing, enters results to database, and analyzes results to make in-process adjustments.
  • Follows and understands ESLP (Equipment Specific Lockout Procedure) to ensure safe and successful Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) of process equipment.
  • Responsible for equipment startup and shutdown needed to meet facility's production targets.
  • Executes daily Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure and maintain cleanliness throughout the plant and department.
  • Conducts routine maintenance checks, cleanings, and performs basic preventive maintenance on process equipment.
  • Adheres to all safety regulations and partners with team members and plant leadership to foster a culture of safety for all individuals.
On the Job Requirements:
  • Ability to work independently with a high level of autonomy.
  • Possesses high degree of punctuality, work ethic, and reliability.
  • Able to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Able to communicate effectively with department operators and leadership.
  • Possesses strong attention to detail and high levels of quality of work.
  • Mechanical inclination & aptitude with ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues.
  • Proficiency in Windows computer operating system & related software.
Education & Experience Requirements:
  • High School Diploma/GED, required.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without Visa sponsorship.
  • Ability to understand & effectively communication in English (verbal & written).
  • Strong fundamental skills (math, reading, writing, & verbal communication).
  • Experience in industrial or mechanical manufacturing environment.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Ability to move about on a work site by ascending/descending stairs, extensive walking, climbing steps or ladders, prolonged periods of standing and sitting, stooping, bending, kneeling, or squatting frequently 
  • Ability to operate equipment or machinery that may be located at different heights with open view grating from multiple elevations or in confined spaces 
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds overhead 
  • Ability to traverse two (2) miles or more during the course of a workday 
  • Ambient conditions - Work area is, typically, a non-air-conditioned production environment. Working in in extreme heat and cold in all seasonal elements, both indoors and outside on a regular basis.
  • Atmosphere: May come in contact with Dust (Peanut - known allergen), corn, cotton, canola seed, chemicals, and odor 
  • Must be able to work around vibrating equipment and noise levels that may reach or exceed 85 decibels and will require use of hearing protection for most of the work shift 
  • Employees are required to wear all company provided Personal Protective Equipment (i.e., hard-hats, safety glasses, earplugs, uniforms, and steel-toed boots) in addition to job specific PPE requirements (i.e., fall protection equipment and respirators)
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 
REF:112059BR

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