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Railroad Driver Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sperry Rail, Inc.

CDL Driver (CN)

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Sperry Rail is on a mission-critical journey to revolutionize the Rail Flaw Detection industry ... Maintain DOT compliance, including driver logs, inspections, and regulatory requirements Inspection ...

PROFESSIONAL TRANSPORTATION INC

Driver

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Come be a part of the nation's largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver! About PTI - Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way: Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew ...

Professional Transportation Inc.

Driver

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Come be a part of the nation's largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver! About PTI - Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way: Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew ...

Professional Transportation Inc

Driver

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Come be a part of the nation's largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver! About PTI - Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way: Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew ...

Professional Transportation Inc.

Driver

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Come be a part of the nation's largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver! About PTI - Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way: Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew ...

PROFESSIONAL TRANSPORTATION INC

Driver

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $15/hr

Come be a part of the nation's largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver! About PTI - Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way: Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew ...

L. G. Everist, Inc.

Conductor

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

D & I Railroad Reports to: Operations Manager Job Summary: The Conductor is responsible for ... Valid Driver's license is required. * Must have excellent communication skills and the ability to ...

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Railroad Driver information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$15

$25

How much do railroad driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad driver in Iowa is $15.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad driver?

Railroad Drivers, also known as train operators or locomotive engineers, are responsible for operating trains that transport passengers or freight. They ensure trains run safely, adhere to schedules, and follow all safety regulations. Their duties include inspecting locomotives, monitoring instruments, communicating with dispatchers, and responding to emergencies or track obstructions. Railroad Drivers must complete specialized training and obtain proper certification before operating trains. This role requires attention to detail, quick decision-making, and a strong understanding of railway systems.

How to become a railroad driver?

To become a railroad driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), and completion of specialized training provided by the employer or a training program. Experience operating trains or heavy machinery, along with passing medical and background checks, is also required. Some positions may require certification from the Federal Railroad Administration or similar regulatory bodies.

Is 55 too old to become a railroad driver?

Railroad driver positions typically require good physical health, a valid commercial driver's license, and safety training. Age is generally not a strict barrier, and many companies value experience and reliability, so being 55 does not automatically disqualify someone from becoming a railroad driver.

What is the difference between Railroad Driver vs Locomotive Engineer?

AspectRailroad DriverLocomotive Engineer
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)Federal and state certifications, often including a locomotive engineer license
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, and freight terminalsLocomotive cabs, rail yards, and on-track routes
Industry UsageFreight and passenger rail companiesRailroads, freight, and passenger services

Railroad Drivers and Locomotive Engineers both operate trains and require relevant certifications. While Railroad Drivers typically hold a CDL and work mainly in yards and terminals, Locomotive Engineers operate trains on mainlines with specialized licenses. Both roles are essential in rail transportation, but their certifications and work environments differ slightly.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Driver, you need comprehensive knowledge of rail operations, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma along with formal railroad engineer certification. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling equipment, and federal safety regulations is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe and efficient train operation, compliance with regulations, and effective response to emergencies or unexpected situations.

How do you become a railroad driver?

To become a railroad driver, also known as a locomotive engineer, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Candidates must pass a background check, drug test, and obtain certification from the Federal Railroad Administration, which involves passing written and practical exams. Experience operating trains and knowledge of safety protocols are also essential for this role.

What are some typical challenges faced by railroad drivers, and how can they prepare for them?

Railroad Drivers often encounter challenges such as variable weather conditions, unexpected track obstructions, and strict adherence to schedules and safety protocols. To prepare, drivers undergo rigorous training to handle emergency situations, maintain communication with dispatchers, and stay updated on route changes. Building strong situational awareness and stress management skills is also important, as shifts can be long and require sustained focus. Collaboration with conductors and maintenance crews is essential for ensuring safe and efficient operations.
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Driver jobs in Iowa? For Railroad Driver jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Driver jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Driver jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Railroad Driver jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Railroad Driver job openings:
Railroad Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Driver job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,934 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

CDL Hi-Rail Railroad Technician

DeAngelo Contracting Services

Marshalltown, IA • On-site

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

DeAngelo Contracting Services rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

215th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Company Description

DCS is a family owned and operated business with treating all employees like family at the core of our values. Our employees provide innovative, safe, and high-quality infrastructure/maintenance contracting services to State DOTs, railroads, and other commercial/residential customers across the entire United States. Employees receive generous compensation packages, employee engagement events & career development programs, just to name a few of the perks of being part of the DCS family!

To provide quality service, we need top-of-the-line employees. That is why we offer great compensation, awesome benefits, and a work environment worth bragging about! 

Job Description

DeAngelo Contracting Services (DCS) is seeking a motivated and skilled CDL Hi-Rail Technician with strong ethics, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to safety. This is a full-time seasonal position with start and end dates depending on weather conditions and workload.

As a Hi-Rail Technician, you’ll play a key role in spraying herbicide along railroad tracks while maintaining trucks and spray equipment. This role offers challenging, rewarding work with travel, training, and opportunities to grow in the vegetation management industry.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee and complete assigned jobs/contracts.
  • Apply herbicides (weed, grass, and brush control) along railroads.
  • Mix tanks and calibrate spray equipment.
  • Perform daily truck inspections, routine maintenance, and system repairs.
  • Maintain accurate daily/weekly records.
  • Ensure all work complies with safety guidelines and regulations.
  • Communicate with customers and address complaints professionally.
  • Identify vegetation types and understand proper application methods, chemicals, and safety requirements.
Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • 21+ years of age or older.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen, DOT physical, and federal background check for railroad property access.
  • Valid CDL (Class A or B) with tanker and air brake endorsements.
  • 5 years of total clean driving experience required.
  • Must be able to operate manual transmission trucks (no automatic restrictions).
  • Ability to travel away from home for 4–6 weeks at a time (DCS covers hotel accommodations and per diem).
  • Flexible schedule:
    • Most work is Monday–Friday, 7am–4pm, with 10–12-hour shifts.
    • Some weekend or night work may be required.
    • Hours may vary with weather and workload.
  • Occasionally travel to offices during breaks for routine truck/equipment maintenance.
  • Must comply with company drug and alcohol policy.

Training Provided

  • Paid training in vegetation identification, chemical usage, safety procedures, application methods, and equipment operation/maintenance.

Additional Information

Benefits & Compensation

  • Compensation range: $23-30/ hour depending on experience. 
  • Challenging and rewarding work environment
  • Competitive medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Generous paid time off
  • Career development opportunities
  • Employee referral bonus
  • Pay increases available for:
    • Prior Hi-Rail/vegetation spray experience
    • Earning a Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License after hire.

Come be a part of the DeAngelo family, today! 

DCS is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all hiring and employment regulations. In the event an ADA accommodation is needed, DCS is happy to help all employees achieve gainful employment in an atmosphere where they are appreciated and respected. DCS offers subcontracting services to government agencies as such, candidates may be subject to pre-employment screenings such as criminal background checks, pre-employment, post-accident & reasonable impairment drug screenings, motor vehicle record checks, etc. as such, DCS complies with all federal and state regulatory guidelines including the FCRA.

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