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Railroad Operations Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cando Rail & Terminals

Operations Manager

Stockton, CA · On-site

$128K/yr

... Operations Manager leads a specialized team in planning, organizing, and managing operations ... Cando Rail & Terminals is North America's leading provider of specialized rail operating services ...

Hulcher Services Inc

General Manager

Bloomington, CA

$120K - $140K/yr

Description Regional General Manager - Railroad Operations & Emergency Response Lead Multiple Railroad Operations. Drive Safety. Grow the Business. Hulcher Services is seeking an experienced Regional ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

General Manager

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Regional General Manager - Railroad Operations & Emergency Response Lead Multiple Railroad Operations. Drive Safety. Grow the Business. Hulcher Services is seeking an experienced Regional General ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

General Manager

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Regional General Manager - Railroad Operations & Emergency Response Lead Multiple Railroad Operations. Drive Safety. Grow the Business. Hulcher Services is seeking an ...

Metro Ports

Operations Manager

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$83K - $103K/yr

Interfaces and communicates with customers, agents, rail companies, PMA, Local ILWU representatives, and pilots' associations to support effective operational execution. * Ensures strict compliance ...

Career Movement

Operations Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

They are looking to add two Operations Managers to lead the day-to-day supervision of terminal ... rail functions. Make real-time decisions on labor assignments, shift extensions, and equipment ...

Career Movement

Operations Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

They are looking to add two Operations Managers to lead the day-to-day supervision of terminal ... rail functions. Make real-time decisions on labor assignments, shift extensions, and equipment ...

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Railroad Operations Manager information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$62.6K

$116.9K

How much do railroad operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad operations manager in California is $62,625.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a railroad operations manager do?

A Railroad Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of railway systems, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains, personnel, and cargo. They coordinate schedules, manage staff, and monitor compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Additionally, they troubleshoot operational issues, optimize resource allocation, and collaborate with other departments to maintain smooth railway operations. Their work is crucial for minimizing delays, improving service reliability, and ensuring the safety of both passengers and freight.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Operations Manager, you need in-depth knowledge of rail operations, transportation logistics, and safety regulations, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in transportation management or a related field. Familiarity with dispatching software, scheduling systems, and federal compliance tools is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication skills help manage diverse teams and respond effectively to operational challenges. These competencies ensure efficient, safe, and reliable rail service while maintaining regulatory compliance and high team performance.

What are some common challenges faced by a railroad operations manager, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Railroad Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating complex schedules, ensuring safety compliance, and managing unexpected delays due to weather or equipment issues. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to addressing these challenges. Proactively collaborating with dispatchers, maintenance crews, and logistics teams can help minimize disruptions and keep operations running smoothly. Staying updated on industry regulations and leveraging technology for real-time tracking also contribute to effective problem-solving in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Railroad Operations Manager vs Railroad Dispatcher?

AspectRailroad Operations ManagerRailroad Dispatcher
CredentialsExperience in rail operations, sometimes certifications in logistics or transportation managementTraining in dispatching, communication, and railroad safety protocols
Work EnvironmentOversees entire operations, manages teams, and coordinates across departmentsWorks in control centers, communicates with train crews and field personnel
Industry UsageUsed in managerial roles overseeing operationsUsed in daily train movement coordination

The Railroad Operations Manager focuses on overseeing overall rail operations, managing teams, and strategic planning. In contrast, the Railroad Dispatcher handles real-time train movements and communication. Both roles are essential in rail industry operations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Operations Manager jobs in California?

For Railroad Operations Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Operations Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Operations Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Railroad Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Railroad Operations Manager job openings:

Railroad Operations Manager jobs near you

Superintendent of Railroad Operations

Fort Bragg, CA • On-site

Sierra Railroad Company
Social Sciences and Humanities Research • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Sierra Railroad Companyexternal

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Mendocino Railway is the owner/operator of freight and passenger railroads including the California Western Railroad (CWR) / Skunk Train which operates between Fort Bragg and Willits, California.


We are hiring an Superintendent of Railroad Operations to provide hands-on leadership and oversight of our railroad operations in Mendocino County California. This is a highly visible leadership position responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of our railroad while supporting an exceptional experience for our passengers, guests, staff, and the communities we serve. This is a full-time position working onsite in Fort Bragg and Willits, CA.


The ideal candidate brings practical experience in freight and/or passenger railroad operations, a strong working knowledge of railroad safety and regulatory requirements (including FRA), a keen eye for detail, and demonstrated success leading employees and field operations. This position works closely with all facets of railroad employees and operations, including but not limited to contractors, department leaders, management, members of the public, public officials, and regulatory agencies.


ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)

  • Provide hands-on leadership and oversight of day-to-day railroad operations, with safety as the highest priority.
  • Lead, coach, mentor, and supervise department leaders, field crews, and operations employees.
  • Monitor employee performance and conduct operational testing to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, safety standards, and productivity expectations including but not limited to those contained in the CFR, GCOR, railroad related policies, safety rules, standards, and productivity goals.
  • Monitor and ensure compliance with applicable Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Department of Transportation (DOT), California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), GCOR, and company requirements.
  • Promote a strong safety culture and ensure employees consistently follow railroad operating rules, safety standards, policies, and procedures.
  • Coordinate railroad operations, routine maintenance, track work, and other operational activities with internal departments.
  • Plan and coordinate major infrastructure and capital improvement projects.
  • Partner with management to monitor departmental budgets, capital project expenses, schedules, and financial performance.
  • Perform and/or oversee track, equipment, and operational inspections.
  • Identify opportunities to improve railroad infrastructure, operations, safety, and efficiency.
  • Oversee contractors and third-party work performed on railroad property.
  • Manage field resources, including labor, tools, equipment, and materials required for railroad maintenance and operations.
  • Represent the railroad professionally when interacting with guests, regulatory agencies, elected officials, contractors, and members of the public.
  • Support special events and other railroad operations as needed.
  • Travel to company locations and project sites as required.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

 

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Experience in railroad operations, track inspection, Maintenance of Equipment (MOE), and Maintenance of Way (MOW) track standards.
  • Experience managing operational priorities, projects, budgets, and resources.
  • Prior supervisory or management experience in a railroad environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and develop field and operations employees.
  • Strong knowledge of FRA regulations and railroad operating and safety requirements.
  • Familiarity with GCOR and California railroad regulatory requirements, including CPUC requirements.
  • Pre-employment DOT drug screen and background check required prior to hiring.
  • Valid driver’s license required; ability to obtain CDL is encouraged.
  • Experience overseeing both passenger and freight railroad operations preferred.
  • Experience coordinating significant railroad infrastructure or capital improvement projects a plus.
  • Ability to read and interpret track plans and construction documents.
  • Ability to effectively communicate and work with employees, contractors, regulatory representatives, public officials, and members of the public.
  • Strong organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Teams.
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work outdoors in varying conditions.
  • Must be reliable, punctual, and professional in appearance and demeanor.
  • Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to stand for extended periods and walk on uneven surfaces (train platforms, gravel, etc.).
  • Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. safely.
  • Ability to bend, reach, stoop, push, pull and use hand tools.
  • Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments and around moving rail equipment (with provided safety training).
  • Must be able to perform duties safely while on the tracks and a moving train.

BENEFITS & ADDITIONAL NOTES 

  • Employment is full-time and includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, U.S. Railroad Retirement, paid holidays, paid sick leave, and paid time off.


EEO Statement

Mendocino Railway is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disabled status or any other protected class.