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Railroad Driver Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RAILCREW XPRESS LLC

Clinton IA Driver

Clinton, IA

$15/hr

NO CDL REQUIRED!! Railcrew Xpress is currently hiring Passenger Mini-Van Drivers! To Apply: You ... As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their ...

RAILCREW XPRESS LLC

Creston IA Driver

Creston, IA

$15/hr

NO CDL REQUIRED!! Railcrew Xpress is currently hiring Passenger Mini-Van Drivers! To Apply: You ... As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their ...

MCT Companies

Rail Service Technician

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

Rail Service Technician About Us: WE BLEED BLUE At MCT Companies, we like to say we bleed blue ... Must possess a current valid driver's license or commercial driver's license. Must notify ...

Loram

Service Technician-CDL

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... railroad customers. Ongoing eligibility is subject to compliance with eRailSafe standards * Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. A Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check will be conducted ...

Patriot Rail

Engineer/Conductor KJRY

Keokuk, IA · On-site

Valid Driver's License; 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry experience strongly preferred; Must pass all required assessments; Must pass a background screening;

Archer Daniels Midland

$32.31/hr

Monitors truck driver unloading of products and partners with truck drivers to ensure the safe loading and unloading of product in the facility. * Manages rail yard Inventory through the movement and ...

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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 Sep 7, 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.

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.

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 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.

How to become a railroad driver?

To become a railroad driver, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), and completion of on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Some positions require passing a background check, drug testing, and obtaining certifications such as a locomotive engineer license, depending on the region and employer requirements.

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 barrier as long as the candidate can meet the physical and certification requirements; many railroads value experience and reliability over age. Applicants should check specific employer policies and health standards for eligibility.

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.

Clinton IA Driver

RAILCREW XPRESS LLC

Clinton, IA

$15/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Railcrew Xpress rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

361st of 366 rated logistics

Job description

NO CDL REQUIRED!! Railcrew Xpress is currently hiring Passenger Mini-Van Drivers!

To Apply: You must go on-line at http://www.RCXHires.com

GREAT JOB FOR RETIREES

MUST HAVE VALID DRIVERS LICENSE AND CLEAN DRIVING RECORD

PAY STARTS AT $15.00 PER HOUR

Railcrew Xpress (RCX) primary purpose is to provide safe dependable, reliable transportation to the members of railroad crews. The transportation service we provide is vital to the operation of the railways and we take pride in the service we provide. As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their needs. This position is for those that want to help maintain our railroad systems and ensure that the safety of all involved is delivered. Due to the safety and security needed around the railroads, the minimum requirements for Drivers are:

  • Minimum age of 21
  • Current valid state issued driver's license
  • Preferably live within a 20-25 minute distance of location
  • On call position that allows you to create your own schedule

Some Benefits RCX Provides:

  • Full-Time and Part-Time Opportunities wide schedules available to meet demands
  • Limited medical, dental, short-term disability and life insurance
  • Paid Time Off after completion of one (1) year of employment
  • Paid time while waiting on crew or train
  • Paid Training

Job Types: Full-Time and Part-Time

Pay: $15.00 per hour

Minimum Requirements

  • Maintain a current valid state issued driver's license issued by the state of residence.
  • Acquire and retain any state required license certifications.
  • Less than two (2) moving violations within the last three (3) years.
  • No careless, reckless or failure to control violation in the last five (5) years.
  • No driving under the influence convictions in the previous seven (7) years.
  • No record of drug or alcohol-related convictions within the previous four (4) years.
  • No auto theft conviction in the last seven (7) years.
  • Employees or applicants required to report on a sex offender registry will be reviewed for any disqualifying factors or crimes of concern.
  • Must be cleared by eRailsafe or background report required by the company. A felony conviction within the last seven (7) years, released from a penal institution within the last five (5) years or crimes of concern may be disqualifying factors.

Computer Skill Requirements

  • Ability to use electronic devices and programs to communicate, onboard, train and submit required shift and trip information, etc.

Physical Qualifications

  • Must be a minimum of 21 years of age.
  • Ability to lift up to 10 lbs.
  • Position requires extended periods of time sitting, usually driving, or waiting on crew.
  • Ability to bend, stop and stretch to complete vehicle inspection.
  • Ability to safely enter and exit company vehicle.
  • Ability to safely fit behind the wheel and properly wear seatbelt.
  • Employees must be able to meet the physical requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Act's, Section 391.41 (if required) by submitting and passing a DOT physical examination.
  • Ability to hear, read and respond to instructions and directions over the phone, navigation system and/or radio in English.
  • Submit to and receive a negative drug and/or alcohol test.

Personal Qualifications

  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Professional temperament and attitude.
  • Ability to navigate in high-traffic areas.
  • Ability to meet time-deadlines.
  • Excellent customer service skills.

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