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Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skillforce

Heavy Equipment Operator

Woodinville, WA · Remote

$35 - $47/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil / Environmental Excavation) Pay: $3 5 - $47 /hour Location ... Installing and working around trench shoring systems (slide rail, trench boxes, etc.

Skillforce

Heavy Equipment Operator

Concord, CA · Remote

$45 - $55/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil / Environmental Excavation) Pay: $ 45 - $ 55 /hour Location ... Installing and working around trench shoring systems (slide rail, trench boxes, etc.

Alter Trading Corp

Heavy Equipment Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

... operating status. * Making lifts to assist. * Operate Heavy Equipment to load/ unload trucks and ... Switch railroad cars at direction of ground person. * Follow shut down procedures at end of shift ...

Alter Trading Corp

Heavy Equipment Operator

Negaunee, MI · On-site

... operating status. * Making lifts to assist. * Operate Heavy Equipment to load/ unload trucks and ... Switch railroad cars at direction of ground person. * Follow shut down procedures at end of shift ...

New

Didion Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cambria, WI

$25 - $30/hr

Support truck and rail loadouts to meet delivery timelines. * Perform conductor/grounds duties in the rail yard. * Keep equipment clean, maintained, and ready to roll. * Use tech tools to track ...

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Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator information

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How much do railroad heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad heavy equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges railroad heavy equipment operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Railroad Heavy Equipment Operators often work in variable weather conditions and must navigate tight schedules to keep rail projects on track. A key challenge is maintaining safety while operating large machinery near live tracks and in potentially hazardous environments. Effective communication with team members, staying updated on safety protocols, and participating in regular equipment maintenance are essential strategies to manage these challenges. Adaptability and attention to detail are crucial in ensuring both operational efficiency and personal safety.

What is a railroad heavy equipment operator?

Railroad Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating specialized machinery used in the construction, maintenance, and repair of railroad tracks and infrastructure. These operators handle equipment such as track hoes, ballast regulators, tampers, and cranes to ensure the safe and efficient movement of trains. Their duties often include moving heavy materials, clearing debris, and assisting with track alignment. Safety and precision are crucial in this role, as improper operation can lead to delays or accidents.

What is the difference between Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator vs Track Maintenance Worker?

AspectRailroad Heavy Equipment OperatorTrack Maintenance Worker
CredentialsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, track inspection certifications
Work EnvironmentOperate heavy machinery on rail yards, construction sitesInspect and repair tracks on rail lines and right-of-ways
Employer & IndustryRailroads, construction companiesRailroads, maintenance contractors

Railroad Heavy Equipment Operators focus on operating large machinery like cranes and bulldozers for construction and maintenance projects, while Track Maintenance Workers perform inspections and repairs on the tracks themselves. Both roles require safety certifications and work within the railroad industry, but their daily tasks and equipment differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator, you need expertise in operating and maintaining heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Familiarity with railroad-specific equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA safety training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills help individuals excel in this safety-critical and collaborative environment. These skills ensure efficient and safe railroad operations, minimizing risks and maintaining smooth workflow on the tracks.
More about Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator jobs
What states have the most Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator jobs are:
Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Railroad Heavy Equipment Operator - Atlanta

STX Corporation

Palmetto, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

🚜 Now Hiring: Heavy Equipment Operators – Railroad Construction

📍 Location: Palmetto, GA
💼 Company: STX Corporation (Family-Owned, 40+ Years Strong)
💰 Pay: $24.00 – $28.00/hr (Based on Experience)
📅 Job Type: Full-Time
📨 Apply Today

🔧 Your Role

Operate heavy machinery to build and maintain vital railroad infrastructure. Be the backbone of our construction sites, ensuring safety, precision, and progress.

You’ll Be Operating:

  • 🚜 Excavators
  • 🛠️ Skid Steers
  • 🚧 Backhoes
  • 🏗️ Front-End Loaders
  • 🚛 Rotary Dump Trucks
  • 🪝 Grapple Trucks
🌟 Why Join STX?

We’re more than a company — we’re a crew that values:

✅ Competitive Pay & Benefits
✅ Career Growth Opportunities
✅ Team Culture Focused on Safety & Excellence
✅ Per Diem for Overnight Travel
✅ 401(k) + Full Insurance Package

🧭 What We’re Looking For
  • 🏗️ 3+ Years of Equipment Operation Experience
  • 🚚 Valid Driver’s License (CDL a Plus!)
  • 🧳 Willingness to Travel 2–4 Weeks at a Time as needed.
  • 🌦️ Comfortable Working Outdoors in All Conditions
  • 🧼 Clean Driving Record & Drug-Free (DOT/FRA Testing Required)
  • 📱 Tech-Savvy with Smartphones & Computers
  • 🦺 Familiarity with OSHA, MSHA, FRA Safety Standards
🛠️ Your Responsibilities
  • Operate and maintain heavy equipment
  • Perform safety inspections and routine maintenance
  • Collaborate with team to meet project goals
  • Transport materials and equipment
  • Troubleshoot mechanical issues
  • Follow all safety protocols
🎯 Bonus Perks
  • 🏥 Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • 💼 Short & Long-Term Disability
  • 🏖️ Paid Time Off
  • 🔁 Referral Program
  • 🕒 Overtime Available
  • 🛏️ Overnight Per Diem
💬 Let’s Get Rolling

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