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Railcar Loader Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Musket

Railcar Warehouse Production Worker

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22/hr

Performs railcar inspections and recognizes any issues that may arise. * Assists with all terminal ... Operate forklift safely and efficiently in order to load, unload, and move items. * Perform routine ...

advansix

Material Handler - Hopewell

Hopewell, VA

$20.91/hr

Raw material unloading by vessel, truck, and railcar * Docking of barges/vessels * Overweight and ... Snow removal (Plant wide) including the use of pay loaders, shovels, and other equipment * Bobcat ...

advansix

Material Handler - Hopewell

Prince George, VA

$20.91/hr

Raw material unloading by vessel, truck, and railcar * Docking of barges/vessels * Overweight and ... Snow removal (Plant wide) including the use of pay loaders, shovels, and other equipment * Bobcat ...

advansix

Material Handler - Hopewell

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$20.91/hr

Raw material unloading by vessel, truck, and railcar * Docking of barges/vessels * Overweight and ... Snow removal (Plant wide) including the use of pay loaders, shovels, and other equipment * Bobcat ...

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All JobsRailcar Loader JobsRailcar Loader Jobs in Virginia

Railcar Loader information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do railcar loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for railcar loader in Virginia is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $22.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railcar loader?

Railcar Loaders are workers responsible for safely loading and unloading materials, such as liquids, grains, chemicals, or other goods, into and from railcars. They operate specialized equipment to ensure that products are handled efficiently and according to safety standards. Railcar Loaders also inspect railcars for cleanliness, secure loads, and may complete documentation for shipments. Their work is crucial for the smooth operation of freight transport in industries like agriculture, manufacturing, and energy.

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

To thrive as a Railcar Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of freight handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with loading equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes certification in forklift operation or hazardous materials handling is commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help ensure safe and efficient loading operations. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining workplace safety, minimizing damage, and ensuring timely railcar departures.

What are some common challenges faced by railcar loaders, and how can they be addressed?

Railcar Loaders often work in environments where adhering to safety protocols and managing heavy machinery are daily challenges. The role requires constant attention to prevent accidents and ensure materials are loaded correctly, which can be physically demanding. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is essential to coordinate loading schedules and avoid delays. Regular safety training and proper use of personal protective equipment help address these challenges, while teamwork ensures efficient and accurate loading processes.

What is the difference between Railcar Loader vs Tanker Loader?

AspectRailcar LoaderTanker Loader
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, industrial sitesRefineries, chemical plants, ports
Industry UsageFreight transportation, logisticsPetrochemical, chemical industries
Job FocusLoading/unloading railcarsLoading/unloading tankers

Both Railcar Loaders and Tanker Loaders require safety training and work in industrial environments. Railcar Loaders focus on freight railcars in rail yards, while Tanker Loaders handle liquid cargo in tankers at refineries or ports. The roles are similar but differ mainly in the type of vehicle and cargo handled.

What are popular job titles related to Railcar Loader jobs in Virginia?

For Railcar Loader jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railcar Loader jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Railcar Loader jobs in Virginia are:

Railcar Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railcar Loader job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,834 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

VA Railcar Repair Mechanic - Heavy Equipment Operator

CalmHR Inc

Emporia, VA

$23 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description:

The Railcar Repair Mechanic / Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for inspecting, repairing, maintaining, and operating railroad freight cars and heavy equipment in support of rail operations. This position combines railcar mechanical repair with the safe operation of heavy equipment used in railcar maintenance, derailment response, track maintenance, loading, and material handling. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, mechanically skilled, and capable of working in demanding outdoor environments.


  • Inspect, maintain, and repair freight railcars in accordance with FRA, AAR, and company standards.
  • Perform repairs to railcar components including brake systems, couplers, draft gear, safety appliances, wheels, bearings, and air systems.
  • Weld, cut, fabricate, and replace damaged structural components on railcars.
  • Perform railcar inspections to identify defects and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
  • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, skid steers, forklifts, telehandlers, cranes, and other equipment used in rail operations.
  • Conduct daily pre-operation inspections and routine maintenance on heavy equipment.
  • Assist with derailment recovery, railcar rerailing, and emergency response operations when required.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on shop equipment and company machinery.
  • Troubleshoot and repair hydraulic, diesel, mechanical, and electrical systems on heavy equipment as needed.
  • Complete work orders, inspection reports, and maintenance documentation accurately.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow all FRA, OSHA, AAR, company safety policies, and customer operating procedures.
  • Work independently or as part of a field service crew at customer locations.

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Experience in railcar repair, welding, heavy equipment operation, or related mechanical field preferred.
  • Knowledge of freight car mechanical systems and railroad safety practices.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to read repair manuals, blueprints, mechanical drawings, and technical instructions.
  • Welding certification or experience with MIG, Stick (SMAW), and oxy-fuel cutting preferred.
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL preferred.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required railroad certifications and customer qualifications.
  • Mechanical aptitude with strong troubleshooting skills.
Requirements:
  • Railcar inspection and repair
  • Freight car brake system repair
  • Welding and metal fabrication
  • Heavy equipment operation
  • Hydraulic and diesel equipment maintenance
  • Mechanical troubleshooting
  • Safe work practices
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Strong communication and teamwork
  • Ability to work under minimal supervision


  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
  • Ability to climb railcars, ladders, and heavy equipment.
  • Ability to stand, walk, kneel, crouch, crawl, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, nights, holidays, and emergency call-outs as needed.
Working Conditions
  • Rail yards, customer industrial facilities, repair shops, and field service locations.
  • Exposure to moving rail equipment, heavy machinery, loud noise, dust, grease, welding fumes, and varying weather conditions.
  • Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, high-visibility clothing, and fall protection when required.

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