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Railroad Operations Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Rail Operations Planner

Oakbrook Terrace, IL

$58K - $78K/yr

Rail Operations Planner Position Type: Regular - Full-Time Grade: Grade 04 Requisition ID: 42651 In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and passionate about creating exceptional work ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train alongside experienced crews while supporting emergency railroad operations throughout your assigned region.

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train alongside experienced crews while supporting emergency railroad operations throughout your assigned region.

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train alongside experienced crews while supporting emergency railroad operations throughout your assigned region.

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train alongside experienced crews while supporting emergency railroad operations throughout your assigned region.

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 ...

Wabtec

Principal Application Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$138K - $197K/yr

This role bridges railroad operations and engineering teams, translating customer requirements, operating practices, and train handling expertise into solution architectures, system requirements, and ...

Wabtec

Principal Application Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$138K - $197K/yr

This role bridges railroad operations and engineering teams, translating customer requirements, operating practices, and train handling expertise into solution architectures, system requirements, and ...

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Railroad Operations information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do railroad operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad operations in Chicago, IL is $24.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are railroad operations?

Railroad operations refer to the management and execution of train movements, maintenance, and logistics on a railway network. This includes coordinating train schedules, ensuring safety protocols are followed, overseeing track and equipment maintenance, and managing freight and passenger services. Railroad operations professionals work to ensure that trains run efficiently, safely, and on time, often collaborating with dispatchers, engineers, conductors, and maintenance crews. Their work is essential for the smooth functioning of both commercial freight and passenger rail services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in railroad operations?

To thrive in Railroad Operations, you need a solid understanding of train operations, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and specialized railroad training. Familiarity with signaling systems, dispatch software, and mechanical inspection tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help professionals excel in coordinating schedules and managing unexpected issues. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable rail transport operations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in railroad operations, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in railroad operations often encounter challenges such as coordinating schedules across multiple teams, ensuring safety compliance, and responding to unexpected delays or equipment issues. These challenges are typically addressed through robust communication systems, ongoing training in safety protocols, and the use of advanced technology for real-time tracking and problem-solving. Teamwork is crucial, as operations staff must collaborate closely with dispatchers, maintenance crews, and management to maintain efficiency and safety standards. Adapting quickly to changing circumstances is a key skill for success in this dynamic environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Operations jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Railroad Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Railroad Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Operations 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 $51,330 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Operations Manager - Railcar Vehicle Unloader

Road & Rail Services

Elwood, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

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.

What Road & Rail Services employees say

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