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How much do railroad driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad driver in the United States is $16.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Railroad Drivers?

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 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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Railroad Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Driver jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Driver job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Railroad Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Driver jobs are:
Railroad Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Driver job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,064 per year, or $16.9 per hour.
Railroad Laborer/Hostler Driver

Railroad Laborer/Hostler Driver

Pacific Rail Services

Bethlehem, PA • On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Pacific Rail Services rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

322nd of 358 rated logistics

Job description

Pacific Rail Services.
Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA.

Job Position: Railroad Laborer (Full-Time Position).
We are looking to hire a Hostler Driver/Ground person in Bethlehem, PA.

Job Details:
  • No experience is necessary.
  • On-the-Job Training Available.
  • Hours: Days, Nights & Weekends.
  • Location: Pacific Rail Services. 2400 Commerce Center Blvd., Bethlehem, PA 18015.
  • Employment Type: Full-Time.

Job Summary:
  • The successful candidate for this position will operate a hostler to move trailers and/or containers to/from parking areas to the tracks for loading, as well as chassis to the track for container unloading.
  • The driver may also be required to transport units to/from storage areas for later movement or loading.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Spot units next to assigned rail cars for loading of outbound train departures.
  • Pull the derailed loads away from the track and place them in an appropriate parking lot. This requires backing containers/trailers of 20' to 53' into tight spaces.
  • Spot chassis next to rail cars for container unloading.
  • Perform all necessary computer functions to maintain accurate inventory.
  • Assist outside drivers as needed to retrieve trailers and containers.
  • Lock and unlock containers to the chassis for TOFC or COFC movement.
  • Perform the duties of the ground person as needed, along with any other duties assigned by the supervisor.
  • Will be required to raise hitches on rail cars as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • General Education.
  • A CDL is not required, but trailer backing experience is preferred.
  • You must apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed written or oral instructions.
  • You must be able to see well enough to read operating and maintenance instructions, gauges, and dials on precision measuring tools.
  • You must be able to read and comprehend safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals.
  • You must be able to acquire and maintain a valid driver's license to operate company vehicles.
  • You must be able to hear and talk well enough to communicate with co-workers, supervisors, yard workers, and section leaders 100% of the time.

Additional Physical Requirements:
  • You must be in a physical condition that allows for walking on uneven surfaces, climbing ladders or steps into and out of the hostler cab, and performing other tasks successfully. Maneuvering the hostler's controls to safely move containers, trailers, and chassis.
  • You must be able to walk one (1) mile continuously.
  • You must be able to step up two steps, leading with both the left and right legs.
  • You must be able to walk on a catwalk in a forward motion and be able to turn around.
  • You must be able to walk side-step on a catwalk to place an IBC on top of a container using both your right and left hands.
  • You must be able to use 34.2 pounds of force to lock and unlock a kingpin.
  • You must be able to reach upper levels and perform this activity on a continuous and sustained basis, 95% of the time.
  • You must be able to stoop and reach and perform this activity on a continuous and sustained basis, 95% of the time.

Compensation & Benefits:
  • Full benefits are available and are contingent upon your hours worked.
  • Vision.
  • Medical.
  • Life Insurance.
  • 401(k).
  • Dental.

We are an EEO/AA Employer and consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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