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Railcar Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Railcar Operator / Switchman experience OR * Mechanical Repair experience or aptitude OR * MIG and or Stick Welding training or experience The Railcar Repair Technician conducts all aspects of repair ...

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Railcar Repairman

Zwolle, LA · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

Test electrical systems of cars by operating systems and using testing equipment such as ammeters ... Previous Railcar Repair experience (preferred). * Ability to pass Jacket Welding Test (preferred)

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Railcar Repairman

Junction City, KS · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

Test electrical systems of cars by operating systems and using testing equipment such as ammeters ... Previous Railcar Repair experience (preferred). * Ability to pass Jacket Welding Test (preferred)

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Test electrical systems of cars by operating systems and using testing equipment such as ammeters ... Previous Railcar Repair experience (preferred). * Ability to pass Jacket Welding Test (preferred)

Railcar Loader

Baytown, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Railcar Loader The Railcar Loader shall assist in the functions of transferring material through ... required for operating hand tools and hand held technical devices. 1.4. Knowledge of the ...

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Railcar Prepper

Greer, SC · On-site

$18.50/hr

Railcar Prepper Greer, SC Starting Pay: $18.50/hr Full-Time | 5:30 AM Start Time Looking for a Job ... operating tools and equipment Following all company, customer, and industry safety standards What ...

Railcar Repair Technician 1

Roseburg, OR · On-site

$23.50 - $28.50/hr

Perform railcar repairs in compliance with FRA and AAR interchange rules * Conduct pre and post ... Must be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Railcar Repair Technician 1

Woodland, CA · On-site

$23.50 - $28.50/hr

Perform railcar repairs in compliance with FRA and AAR interchange rules * Conduct pre and post ... Must be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Railcar Repair Technician 1

Albany, OR · On-site

$23.50 - $28.50/hr

Perform railcar repairs in compliance with FRA and AAR interchange rules * Conduct pre and post ... Must be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

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Railcar Operator information

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$12

$19

$25

How much do railcar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for railcar operator in the United States is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railcar operator?

Railcar operators are professionals responsible for the safe and efficient movement of railcars within rail yards, industrial sites, or along tracks. Their duties often include loading and unloading cargo, coupling and uncoupling railcars, inspecting equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Railcar operators work closely with other railroad staff to coordinate train movements and may also perform routine maintenance on rail equipment. This role requires strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and knowledge of railroad operations. Training is typically provided on the job, and safety is a top priority in this profession.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railcar operator?

To thrive as a Railcar Operator, you need a solid understanding of rail operations, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant on-the-job training. Familiarity with railcar switching systems, hand signals, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as Railroad Worker Safety Training are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for coordinating with other crew members and ensuring safe operations. These skills and qualifications are vital to prevent accidents, maintain efficiency, and ensure the safe transport of goods or passengers.

What are some common challenges faced by railcar operators and how can they be managed on the job?

Railcar Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple teams, adhering to strict safety protocols, and handling varying weather conditions. Staying organized and maintaining clear communication with dispatchers, maintenance crews, and other operators is essential for smooth operations. Additionally, being proactive about safety checks and familiarizing oneself with emergency procedures can help mitigate risks and ensure efficient workflow. Adaptability and attention to detail are key traits that help Railcar Operators manage these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Railcar Operator vs Locomotive Engineer?

AspectRailcar OperatorLocomotive Engineer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma; locomotive engineer certification
Work EnvironmentRail yards, loading/unloading sites, tracksLocomotive cabs, train routes, rail yards
Industry UsageFreight companies, railroads, industrial facilitiesRailroads, freight and passenger train services
Job FocusOperate railcars for loading, unloading, and movementOperate and control locomotives to move trains

While both roles involve working on trains, a Railcar Operator primarily handles the movement and positioning of individual railcars, focusing on loading and unloading operations. A Locomotive Engineer operates the locomotive itself, controlling train movement over routes. Both roles require safety training and are essential in freight and rail transport industries, but they differ in responsibilities and equipment operated.

What do you need to be a railcar operator?

To become a railcar operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a hazardous materials endorsement. They must also pass background checks, drug tests, and receive on-the-job training to operate railcars safely in a rail yard or on tracks. Physical fitness and good communication skills are also important for this role.

What cities are hiring for Railcar Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Railcar Operator job openings:

What states have the most Railcar Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Railcar Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Railcar Operator jobs?

For Railcar Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Railcar Repair Technician

Chase, LA • On-site

Marmon
Accounting Services • 10K+ employees

$30.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Marmon Holdings rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Transco Rail Services

As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings-which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway-you'll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We're committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone's empowered to be their best.

Transco Rail Services, along with Union Tank Car Company (UTLX) and Procor, delivers fullservice railcar repair and maintenance through a broad North American network of fixed shops and mobile field service teams. Serving freight and tank car fleets across multiple industries, we are committed to safety, compliance, quality, and reliable service.

Entry Level Requirements:

  • Railcar Loading and or Unloading experience OR
  • Railcar Operator / Switchman experience OR
  • Mechanical Repair experience or aptitude OR
  • MIG and or Stick Welding training or experience

Job Description
The Railcar Repair Technician conducts all aspects of repair and maintenance on tank cars. This person must demonstrate good leadership and team skills while being a safety-conscious person.

  • Railcar Repair - always uses current repair procedures. Conducts railcar inspections to ensure cars are in compliance and performs repairs as necessary.
  • Customer Support - Meets the expectations and requirements of all customers to ensure their satisfaction of work.
  • Clerical - ensures that all necessary invoicing, inspection, work order information is complete.
  • Maintains all certifications, complete and maintain required certifications, demonstrates strong familiarity with AAR rules and regulations.
  • Other work-related tasks as assigned.

General Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Must have mechanical aptitude, ability to problem-solve and to make decisions. Ability to use hand tools (such as pipe wrenches, pry bars, wrenches, ratchets, and other equipment to chip and grind weld slag or spatter).
  • Must handle and successfully complete basic railcar repairs and inspections.
  • Consistently demonstrate skill in customer relations, using good interpersonal skills and be able to work as a part of a team.
  • Demonstrates an ability to work safely and follow proper procedures
  • Must work in all types of weather conditions.
  • Valid Driver's License

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to stoop for extended periods and routinely move from kneeling to standing positions
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds from the ground surface
  • Must be able to climb ladders and perform work at elevated heights
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces
  • Must be able to perform a FIT Test and wear a respirator
  • Must be able to pass company physical exam, drug screening and background check

Why Join Our Team?

We take pride in offering our employees rich benefits packages. We appreciate hard-working and passionate individuals which is why we offer:

  • Benefits Effective on Day 1
  • Tuition Reimbursement, Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance
  • Company-paid sickness and accident income
  • 401k matching
  • Annual safety shoe reimbursement and prescription safety wear
  • Holiday pay -10 Total
  • Vacation
  • Marmon employee discount program
  • Starting Pay Rate: $24.08/hr
  • Railcar Technician Max Level: $30.37hr (requires internal certifications and training)

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled

#LI-DNI

Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to careers@marmon.com, and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.


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