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Railroad Bridge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Benesch

Bridge Design Co-op

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Structural/Bridge Design Co-op Benesch is seeking a motivated Structural/Bridge Engineering Intern ... rail professionals, many of whom are former employees of operating railroads. This firsthand ...

Benesch

Bridge Design Co-op

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Structural/Bridge Design Co-op Benesch is seeking a motivated Structural/Bridge Engineering Intern ... rail professionals, many of whom are former employees of operating railroads. This firsthand ...

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Railroad Bridge Operator information

See salary details

$30K

$50.2K

$68.5K

How much do railroad bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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 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.

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.

More about Railroad Bridge Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Railroad Bridge Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Railroad Bridge Operator job openings:

What states have the most Railroad Bridge Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Railroad Bridge Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Bridge Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Bridge Operator jobs are:

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 38% Full Time, 60% 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.

Operator - Broom Tractor - HMAC - (Dallas, TX) - Austin Bridge & Road

Austin Bridge & Raod, LP

Carrollton, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Austin Industries rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 80 rated construction

Job description

Austin Bridge & Road is currently seeking experienced Asphalt Broom/Sweeper Operators for any of the - North, TX asphalt projects. We excel at what we do and are looking for talented construction professionals that want to excel with us. The Broom/Sweeper Operator operates a self-propelled machine to sweep and clean roadway surfaces. May oil, grease, service and make adjustments to equipment as needed. Performs other related duties. 

Responsibilities

  • Perform daily equipment maintenance and inspections
  • Operate equipment in a safe and efficient manner
  • Assist paving crew with site preparation and any other activity as needed
  • Participate as a vital team member, contributing towards Austin’s success
  • Attend daily safety meetings
  • Follow safety policies and procedures
  • Work hours adjusted to meet the project’s needs; days, nights and weekends
  • Able to work in adverse weather conditions, hot or cold temperatures
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • 1+ years of experience operating asphalt equipment
  • Must have a strong commitment to jobsite safety
  • Diligent in demonstrating safe work practices.
  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States. Austin Bridge & Road is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this position

    Benefits & Compensation

    Austin Bridge & Road is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

    See the “Know Your Rights” poster available in English and Spanish.

     

     

    About Austin Bridge and Road

    A leader in the heavy highway and transportation industry for more than 100 years, Austin Bridge & Road delivers asphalt and concrete services, and builds landmark projects such as complex highway interchanges, tollways, runways, bridges, rail projects, and water/wastewater facilities.

    To learn more about us, visit https://www.austin-ind.com/what-we-do/bridge-road.

     

     

    No Third-Party Inquiries Please

    This Company does not accept and will not consider unsolicited resumes or any other unsolicited candidate information submitted to the Company or any of its employee-owners by staffing agencies, search firms, or third-party recruiters in response to a posted vacancy. The Company will not pay any placement fee(s) without a written agreement to do so (i.e., payment must be required pursuant to the terms of a written agreement). 

    Any unsolicited resumes or candidate information submitted to this Company or any of its employee-owners becomes the property of the Company. 

    Accessibility Note

    If you are a job seeker with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to apply for one of our jobs or have accessibility concerns, please contact the People Services Team at (877) 831-1217.

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