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Railroad Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Hallcon

Senior Manager Rail Operations

Chicago, IL · On-site

Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key corporate railroad clients, including operations executives and stakeholders * Manage and own key client books of business, including safety ...

hallcon

Senior Manager Rail Operations

Chicago, IL · On-site

Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key corporate railroad clients, including operations executives and stakeholders * Manage and own key client books of business, including safety ...

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Rail Operations Planner

Oakbrook Terrace, IL

$58K - $78K/yr

Position Title: Rail Operations Planner Position Type: Regular - Full-Time Grade: Grade 04 ... Support cost management efforts through improved railcar utilization, dwell reduction, invoice ...

McCain Foods

Rail Operations Planner

Oakbrook Terrace, IL · On-site

$58K - $78K/yr

The Rail Operations Planner plays a critical role in supporting the execution, performance, and ... Support cost management efforts through improved railcar utilization, dwell reduction, invoice ...

STV

Senior Engineering Operations Manager

Chicago, IL

$116K - $133K/yr

STV is seeking a Senior Engineering Operations Manager to serve as a trusted operations leader and subject matter expert supporting transit and rail clients nationwide. This highly consultative role ...

WeDriveU

Operations Manager

Niles, IL · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

... bus and rail passengers on four continents. Visit wedriveu.com to learn more about our company ... The Operations Manager (OM) will report to the General Manager and assist with all supervisory ...

Mobile Rail Solutions

Be Seen First

Operations Supervisor

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

Manage daily operations, schedules, and service delivery across assigned rail yards * Maintain working knowledge of routes, contractual, and customer requirements * Support hiring, onboarding, and ...

WeDriveU

Operations Manager

Niles, IL

$70K - $75K/yr

... rail passengers on four continents. Visitwedriveu.comto learn more about our company, clients and ... Hard Requirements: * 3+ years' experience in Operations Management Preferred Requirements: * Work ...

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Railroad Operations Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$32K

$65.4K

$122.2K

How much do railroad operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad operations manager in Chicago, IL is $65,421.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $79,900.00 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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Railroad Operations Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Operations Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Railroad Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Operations Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,421 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Operations Manager - Railcar Vehicle Unloader

Road & Rail Services

Elwood, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Road & Rail Services rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Operations Manager – Vehicle Handling & Rail Operations

Company: Road & Rail Services
Location: Elwood, IL
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule: Flexible schedule based on operational and customer needs

Lead a Safety-Focused Rail Logistics Operation

Road & Rail Services is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee our Vehicle Handling department in Elwood, Illinois. This position is responsible for leading employees who unload and handle new vehicles transported by railcar while ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to customer expectations.

Reporting directly to the Director of Operations, the Operations Manager will coordinate daily staffing and workflow, support employee development, conduct safety meetings, and ensure compliance with company procedures and applicable regulations. The successful candidate will be a hands-on leader who communicates clearly, makes sound operational decisions, and remains organized in a fast-paced logistics environment.

Essential Responsibilities

Provide day-to-day leadership and management for the Vehicle Handling department.

Plan daily operations, assign work, and adjust staffing based on workload and business requirements.

Complete and communicate railcar vehicle unloading and operational plans.

Interview applicants, make hiring recommendations, and support the onboarding of new employees.

Train, coach, and evaluate team members to promote safe and productive performance.

Lead safety meetings and reinforce a safety-first workplace culture.

Monitor workflow to ensure vehicles are handled safely and customer deadlines are met.

Ensure employees follow customer work instructions, quality procedures, standard operating procedures, and company policies.

Conduct operational audits and site inspections, including applicable AAR, ISA, and ISO reviews.

Maintain compliance with relevant OSHA, EPA, FRA, DOT, customer, and company requirements.

Investigate operational, safety, attendance, or quality concerns and complete appropriate follow-up.

Exercise independent judgment regarding employee performance, promotions, corrective action, and other employment-status recommendations.

Identify, document, and implement opportunities to improve service quality, safety, productivity, and operating efficiency.

Maintain accurate operational records, reports, and other required documentation.

Communicate regularly with company leadership, customers, and frontline employees.

Required Qualifications

Previous experience supervising or managing employees in railroad operations, vehicle handling, logistics, transportation, manufacturing, warehousing, or a related environment.

Valid state-issued driver's license.

Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.

Ability to prioritize responsibilities and make decisions in a fast-paced operation.

Strong leadership, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and quality.

Ability to work a flexible schedule based on operational demands.

Railroad supervisory or management experience is preferred but not required for candidates with relevant operations leadership experience.

Benefits

Road & Rail Services offers eligible full-time employees a competitive benefits package that includes:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company matching

Paid holidays and vacation

Paid time off

Annual steel-toe boot allowance

Company-provided personal protective equipment

Advancement opportunities through our promote-from-within culture

Veteran-friendly workplace

About Road & Rail Services

Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services is a leading provider of rail-related services throughout North America. Our skilled employees deliver plant and terminal operations, vehicle handling, and rail-asset maintenance services for railroads, rail shippers, and owners of rail equipment and facilities.

If you are an experienced operations leader who values safety, accountability, and continuous improvement, apply today to continue your career with Road & Rail Services.

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