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Railroad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

Overview The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is ...

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is maintained in ...

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

Overview The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is ...

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

Overview The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is ...

Quantix SCS LLC

Rail Operator

Morris, IL

$25 - $28/hr

Description Job summary Rail Yard Operators are responsible for Safe movement and placement of Rail Cars, for communication with Rail Techs for Blue Flag clearance into loading locations as well ...

Quantix SCS LLC

Rail Operator

Rincon, GA

$21/hr

Description Job summary Rail Yard Operators are responsible for Safe movement and placement of Rail Cars, for communication with Rail Techs for Blue Flag clearance into loading locations as well ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Transdev

Railroad Track Equipment Operator

Miami, FL

$72K/yr

Railroad Track Equipment Operator Transdev Rail, Inc. provides an integrated suite of railroad maintenance, construction, and project oversight services. Our South Florida operations maintain more ...

Transdev

Railroad Track Equipment Operator

Miami, FL · On-site

$72K/yr

Railroad Track Equipment Operator Transdev Rail, Inc. provides an integrated suite of railroad maintenance, construction, and project oversight services. Our South Florida operations maintain more ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA

$18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Western Milling

Rail Operator

Goshen, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Switch rail cars within rail yard for product offload into receiving pits. * Maintain radio ... Basic operating knowledge of augers, belt-driven machinery, elevators, and other equipment used in ...

Twin Eagle

Rail Operator (Douglas)

Douglas, WY · On-site

The Rail Operator oversees all functions of the rail operations and assists with loading and unloading of hazardous and non-hazardous liquids, and other dry bulk materials at the terminal. They are ...

AK Steel

Shift Manager Railroad Operations

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

The successful candidate will lead railroad operating personnel, oversee train and switching operations, ensure compliance with railroad operating rules and FRA regulations, drive continuous ...

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Railroad Operator information

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How much do railroad operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad operator in the United States is $20.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad operator?

Railroad operators are professionals responsible for managing the movement of trains along rail networks. They monitor train schedules, coordinate with engineers and conductors, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of trains. Their duties may also include controlling track switches, communicating with dispatchers, and responding to emergencies. Railroad operators play a vital role in maintaining railway safety and timely transportation of passengers and goods.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Operator, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, safety regulations, and mechanical systems, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with signaling systems, dispatch software, and locomotive controls is typically required. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and strong communication skills help operators manage schedules and respond effectively to emergencies. These skills are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and timely movement of trains while minimizing risks on the railway.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad operators and how can they be addressed?

Railroad operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, strict adherence to safety regulations, and maintaining schedules despite operational delays. Effective communication with dispatchers and other crew members is crucial to managing these situations. Proactively reporting equipment issues, participating in ongoing safety training, and staying adaptable can help operators overcome these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Railroad Operator vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectRailroad OperatorSignal Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in electrical or signal systems
Work EnvironmentTrain cab, rail yards, on tracksSignal boxes, electrical rooms, on-site at rail yards and tracks
Industry UsageOperating trains, controlling movementMaintaining and repairing signaling systems

Railroad Operators focus on operating trains and ensuring safe movement along tracks, while Signal Maintainers specialize in maintaining signaling systems that control train traffic. Both roles require safety training and are essential for railway operations, but they differ in daily tasks and technical skills.

How much do railroad operators make?

Railroad operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They often require specialized training and certifications, and may work irregular hours or shifts in a safety-sensitive environment.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired as a railroad operator can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, safety training, and sometimes certifications. Employers often look for candidates with good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a safety-sensitive environment.
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Railroad Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,602 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS • On-site

empirical foods, inc.
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Good employer

Learn new skills

Learn more about empirical foods, inc.external

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Overview

The Rail Operator is responsible for the day-to-day functions and maintenance of the rail infrastructure at empirical. The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is maintained in accordance to established safety standards and company guidelines that support the Rail Operator in carrying out their daily tasks.


Responsibilities

  • Responsible for monitoring and controlling the rail operation which includes equipment, people, and processes required to meet rail, production and sanitation schedules and requirements.
  • Ensure that equipment is performing at optimal levels and in accordance with all safety and quality assurance standards. Immediately notify management or correct any problems.
  • Assist in teardown, cleaning, and rebuilding of equipment. Responsible for efficient and timely startup of equipment required to maintain production schedules. Maintain high quality and safety standards.
  • Perform cleaning and maintenance of rail tracks including debris and snow clearing.
  • Will drive a railcar mover to assist with the loading and unloading of incoming product.
  • Will maintain the integrity and follow procedures and processes put into place by ownership.
  • Responsible for smooth shift transitions and full communication of related items to ensure production is not interrupted.
  • Maintain cleanliness of rail loadout area and other work areas.
  • Will be required to learn all aspects and be knowledgeable of all systems as it pertains to rail and tanker trucks.
  • Be a leader in safe work practices and safety initiatives. Report unsafe work conditions, and ensure hazards are reported and repaired. Will provide backup or support to all positions within the department as needed.
  • Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Skills and Abilities

  • Knowledge of and ability to maintain certification to operate rail car mover and other motor driven machinery.
  • Ability to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Excellent teamwork skills
  • Basic computer knowledge and proficiency.

Demonstrated Competencies

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and skills.
  • Speak clearly and effectively, write legibly and effectively.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret data from a wide variety of sources and take appropriate action.
  • Must be able to work with minimal supervision, have a sense of urgency, and a demonstrated record of dependability.
  • Communicate effectively with all levels of employees as necessary, both in written and verbal form.
  • Must have regular and punctual attendance.

Physical Requirements

  • This position requires sitting, standing, walking, climbing, twisting, reaching, bending, and lifting.
  • Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 60lbs.
  • Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including weekends.
  • Position will work indoors and outdoors depending on shipping requirements.

Experience: Minimum of 1 year of rail experience or equivalent is preferred.
Education: High School diploma or equivalent, or verifiable ability to perform essential job functions.
Department: Operations

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