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Railroad Bridge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Capital Railroad Services

Crane Operator

Dallas, TX

$90K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Capital Railroad Services, Inc. (CRS) has been at the forefront of railroad bridge rehabilitation ... With a base knowledge of construction tasks and physical labor experience, the Crane Operator will ...

Capital Railroad Services

Crane Operator

Tulsa, OK

$90K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Capital Railroad Services, Inc. (CRS) has been at the forefront of railroad bridge rehabilitation ... With a base knowledge of construction tasks and physical labor experience, the Crane Operator will ...

Benesch

Bridge Designer (EIT)

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bridge Designer (EIT) Benesch is seeking to hire a motivated Civil Engineer with 0 to 4 years of ... rail professionals, many of whom are former employees of operating railroads. This firsthand ...

Benesch

Bridge Designer (EIT)

Fort Worth, TX · Hybrid

Bridge Designer (EIT) Benesch is seeking to hire a motivated Civil Engineer with 0 to 4 years of ... rail professionals, many of whom are former employees of operating railroads. This firsthand ...

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All JobsRailroad Bridge Operator Jobs

Railroad Bridge Operator information

See salary details

$30K

$50.2K

$68.5K

How much do railroad bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad bridge operator in the United States is $50,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Railroad Bridge Operator vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectRailroad Bridge OperatorSignal Maintainer
CredentialsTypically requires safety training, certifications in operating machinery, and sometimes a commercial driver’s licenseRequires electrical or electronic certifications, safety training, and knowledge of signaling systems
Work EnvironmentWorks at bridge sites, often outdoors, operating and inspecting movable bridgesWorks in control rooms or on-site, maintaining signaling equipment and systems
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transit agencies, freight companiesRailroads, transit authorities, signaling system providers

Railroad Bridge Operators and Signal Maintainers both work within the railroad industry, often requiring safety certifications and technical knowledge. While Bridge Operators focus on operating and inspecting movable bridges, Signal Maintainers specialize in maintaining signaling systems. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient rail operations, but they differ in daily tasks and technical focus.

What is a railroad bridge operator?

Railroad Bridge Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and maintaining movable railroad bridges, such as drawbridges or lift bridges, to ensure the safe passage of both trains and boats. Their duties include monitoring bridge operations, coordinating with train and boat crews, and performing safety checks. They play a critical role in preventing accidents and ensuring that rail and water traffic move smoothly and efficiently. Railroad Bridge Operators often work in shifts and must be attentive to signals, schedules, and communication protocols. They are trained to handle emergency situations and follow strict safety regulations.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Bridge Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, safety protocols, and railroad operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with control systems, communication radios, and safety signaling equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication skills are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the safe and efficient movement of trains and vessels, preventing accidents and maintaining operational reliability.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad bridge operators during their shifts?

Railroad Bridge Operators often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, which can affect visibility and bridge mechanisms. They must stay vigilant for unexpected train schedules, mechanical issues, or communication gaps between train crews and maritime traffic. Additionally, operators typically work in shifts that may include nights, weekends, or holidays, requiring adaptability to irregular hours. Effective problem-solving skills and clear communication with dispatchers and other operators are essential to ensure the safe and timely operation of the bridge.
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Railroad Bridge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Bridge Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,181 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Railroad Bridge Crane Operator (NCCCO)

E80 Plus Constructors

De Forest, WI • On-site

$732/wk

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

E80 Plus Constructors, LLC specializes in Railroad Bridge Construction and Engineering. We are one the the nation's premier providers to the railroad industry. We are seeking a Crane Operator with experience operating Crawlers, Lattice-Booms, and Boom Trucks. E80 Plus Constructors repairs and constructs concrete, steel, and timber railroad bridges throughout the United States. E80 Plus has an excellent safety record and is known for high-quality work for almost 30 years. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Conduct pre-operational inspections to check for mechanical issues, proper lubrication, and safe working conditions. 
  • Provide safe, high quality crane operations following railroad (on-track) operating procedures. 
  • Establish communication with ground personnel and confirm understanding of signals before proceeding. 
  • Operate crane according to safety procedures and local laws. 
  • Monitor activities in the surrounding area to identify potential hazards or obstacles that may interfere with lifting operations. 
  • Keep an accurate record of operations and maintenance logs. 
  • Maintain a safe working environment by observing proper lifting techniques and safety rules. 
  • Secure loads to prevent shifting or slipping with in transit and during lifts. 
  • Complete post-operation checks to ensure the crane is in good working order before shutting it down. 
  • Properly store and secure the crane when not in use. 
  • Respond quickly and efficiently to emergencies by following safety protocols. 
  • Assist to railroad safety rules, FRA regulations, and company safety protocols. 
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safe work practices, especially when working at heights or confined spaces. 
  • Willing to conduct manual labor tasks in a team environment. 
  • Work effectively in a team environment with co-workers, contractors, and other departments. 

Qualifications/Skills: 

  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent is required
  • NCCCO certification 
  • Class A CDL and an air brake endorsement 
  • Strong coordination, attention to detail, and judgement for safe operations 
  • Knowledge of crane mechanics, safety procedures, and load calculations 
  • Physical stamina and manual dexterity
  • Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills 
  • Clear communication skills 
  • Commitment to safety and quality 

Work Environment: 

E80 Plus Constructors' Crane Operators regularly work outdoors, at heights, in different variations of inclement weather conditions, and in noisy environments. Willingness to travel 100% of the time on working days to different bridge sites throughout the United States. 

Per Diem:

Ability to earn up to $732 in per diem weekly. $112/working days, $86/non-working days.

Benefits:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan 
  • 401(k)
  • Health Insurance 
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance 
  • Short & Long Term Disability 
  • Paid Vacation 
  • Paid Sick time off 
  • Flexible Spending Account 
  • Biannual Safety Bonus 
  • Referral Program 

Required License/Certification:

  • NCCCO Certification 
  • CDL A

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