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Railcar Switching Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Trainmaster

Hamden, CT

Be responsible for customer interface and monitoring the quality of service in accordance with the terms of any applicable contractual arrangements * Assist in railcar-switching function as required

Jaguar Transport Holdings

$80 - $100/hr

Manage all aspects of operations within the facility with regard to forklift operating, railcar switching, material handling, and maintenance. * Effectively plan and schedule all movements within the ...

New

G&W

Trainmaster

Hamden, CT · On-site

Be responsible for customer interface and monitoring the quality of service in accordance with the terms of any applicable contractual arrangements * Assist in railcar-switching function as required

G&W

Trainmaster

Hamden, CT · On-site

Be responsible for customer interface and monitoring the quality of service in accordance with the terms of any applicable contractual arrangements * Assist in railcar-switching function as required

loadstarusa

Rail Switchman Lead

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Job Summary This position will be responsible for the safe and efficient railcar switching and locomotive operations. Strong communication skills are required to be able to safely move railcars in ...

Cando Rail & Terminals

Railcar Washer

Gregory, TX · On-site

The company provides a wide range of rail services including industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, short line operations, railcar staging, train assembly, and ...

Genesee & Wyoming

Trainmaster

Hamden, CT · On-site

Be responsible for customer interface and monitoring the quality of service in accordance with the terms of any applicable contractual arrangements * Assist in railcar-switching function as required

loadstarusa

Rail Switchman

Saint James, LA · On-site

Job Summary This position will be responsible for the safe and efficient railcar switching and locomotive operations. Strong communication skills are required to be able to safely move railcars in ...

OL&B Railway

Welder / Railcar Repair

Lincoln, NE · On-site

OL&B Railway is a Class III switching railroad that interchanges cars from the Union Pacific and ... Railcar body defects, safety appliances including hand holds, sill steps, grab iron, brake ...

Eagle Railcar Management, LLC

Be Seen First

Switch Crew

Junction City, KS · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

Previous Switching experience (preferred). * Lace-up, defined heel, steel toed boots (required). Company Description Eagle Railcar Services is a leading provider of railcar repair and maintenance ...

OL&B Railway

Welder / Railcar Repair

Lincoln, NE · On-site

OL&B Railway is a Class III switching railroad that interchanges cars from the Union Pacific and ... Railcar body defects, safety appliances including hand holds, sill steps, grab iron, brake ...

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Railcar Switching information

See salary details

$14

$21

$27

How much do railcar switching jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for railcar switching in the United States is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is railcar switching?

Railcar switching is the process of moving railcars within a rail yard or between tracks to organize them for loading, unloading, or assembling trains for departure. Workers, often called switchmen or yardmasters, use locomotives to reposition railcars according to schedules and cargo requirements. This job is essential for efficient rail operations and requires attention to safety and detail. Railcar switching can be physically demanding and involves working outdoors in various weather conditions.

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

To thrive as a Railcar Switching Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of rail yard operations and safety procedures. Familiarity with radio communication systems, railcar tracking software, and basic locomotive controls is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and situational awareness are critical soft skills that enhance safety and efficiency. Mastery of these skills ensures the safe, accurate, and timely movement of railcars, which is essential for smooth rail operations.

What are some common challenges faced by railcar switchers and how can they be managed effectively?

Railcar switchers often encounter challenges such as working in various weather conditions, coordinating with multiple team members, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication and situational awareness are key to managing these challenges, as switchers must constantly monitor rail traffic and respond quickly to changes. Regular safety training, teamwork, and attention to detail help minimize risks and ensure smooth operations throughout their shifts.

What is the difference between Railcar Switching vs Railcar Repair Technician?

AspectRailcar SwitchingRailcar Repair Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsTechnical certifications, mechanical training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, switching facilitiesRepair shops, industrial facilities
Industry UsageFrequent in freight and logisticsPrimarily in maintenance and repair
Job FocusMoving railcars within yardsInspecting and repairing railcars

Railcar Switching involves moving and organizing railcars within yards, focusing on logistics and safety. Railcar Repair Technicians specialize in maintaining and repairing railcars. While both roles work in rail industry environments, their responsibilities and required skills differ significantly.

How to become a railcar switching operator?

To become a railcar switching operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training provided by the employer. Skills in operating switching equipment, understanding safety protocols, and good communication are important; some positions may require certification or experience with rail yard operations.

What other helpful pages are available for Railcar Switching?

Other pages related to Railcar Switching:

Infographic showing various Railcar Switching job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,288 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Trainmaster

Hamden, CT

Genesee & Wyoming Inc
Rail Transportation • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Genesee & Wyoming Incexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Genesee & Wyoming rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

267th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Be responsible for managing the safety performance, operating practices, and financial productivity of the operation
  • Be responsible for customer interface and monitoring the quality of service in accordance with the terms of any applicable contractual arrangements
  • Assist in railcar-switching function as required
  • Assume a leadership role in supervising crews, schedules, and personnel
  • Maintain payroll within the targeted budget
  • Conduct efficiency and operating tests according to company practices
  • Conduct incident investigations (derailments, personal injury, etc.) and prepare associated reports
  • Hire new employees to fill vacancies; train new employees in operating practices according to federal regulations and company policies; administer discipline as needed
  • Assist with other projects and perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • Five years of work experience in the railroad industry, with supervisory duties; seven years of experience in the railroad industry preferred
  • Knowledge and understanding of FRA regulations

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR CREDENTIALS: 

  • Associate’s degree; bachelor’s degree preferred

This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.

Genesee & Wyoming Inc. and its subsidiary companies do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other protected status under federal, state or local laws.

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