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Railroad Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator Cando Rail & Terminals is North America's leading provider of specialized rail operating services and terminal infrastructure that allow industrial shippers to optimize their supply ...

Forklift Operator

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Cando Rail & Terminals is North America's leading provider of specialized rail operating services and terminal infrastructure that allow industrial shippers to optimize their supply chains and ...

Forklift Operator

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Cando Rail & Terminals is North America's leading provider of specialized rail operating services and terminal infrastructure that allow industrial shippers to optimize their supply chains and ...

Forklift Operator

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Cando Rail & Terminals is North America's leading provider of specialized rail operating services and terminal infrastructure that allow industrial shippers to optimize their supply chains and ...

Train Conductor

Vance, AL ยท On-site

$19/hr

Inspects all rail equipment to ensure there is no damage and notify the operator and supervisor immediately if there is. * Handles all rail equipment in a safe and efficient manner. * Maintain ...

Our network of skilled associates provides plant and terminal operating expertise as well as field maintenance of rail assets for railroads, rail shippers, and owners of rail related equipment and ...

Our network of skilled associates provides plant and terminal operating expertise as well as field maintenance of rail assets for railroads, rail shippers, and owners of rail related equipment and ...

Machine Operator - ATN

Gadsden, AL ยท On-site

$14 - $16.50/hr

Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations and the Federal ... Considered an expert in operating all CDL equipment, and handles all advanced operating duties

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Railroad Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$8

$17

$35

How much do railroad operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad operator in Alabama is $17.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $18.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are railroad operators and what do they do?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Railroad Operator, and why are they important?

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 job categories do people searching Railroad Operator jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Operator jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Railroad Operator jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Railroad Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Railroad Operator job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,028 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Cando Rail & Terminals

Birmingham, AL โ€ข On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Forklift Operator

Cando Rail & Terminals is North America's leading provider of specialized rail operating services and terminal infrastructure that allow industrial shippers to optimize their supply chains and connect to Class I railways by leveraging Cando's operating capabilities and network of owned multi-purpose rail terminals. The company provides a wide range of rail services including industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, short line operations, railcar staging, train assembly, and related services.

Cando Advantages

  • Work Life Balance
  • Cando's Technical and Leadership Training Programs
  • Award Winning Safety Culture
  • Group Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, and Long-Term Disability Insurances
  • Health & Dental Benefits including voluntary options
  • Expanding in the US and we welcome you to come grow with us!

Job Description

Equipment Operator/Material Handlers with Cando are responsible for performing the safe and efficient loading and unloading of product and the flow of frames to proper storage areas of shipping locations. Working in a fast-paced, customer-oriented environment, the Operators must work well in teams to maximize efficiency while demonstrating a strong initiative and safety focus.

Roles & Responsibilities

  • Professional interaction and collaboration with other Cando Team Members and customers.
  • Ability to transload various dimensional products such as lumber, plywood, OSB, and palletized goods, troubleshoot and repair various types of equipment. (hydraulic, electrical, pneumatic, etc.)
  • Assist with maintenance, clean-ups and other duties as assigned.
  • Safe operation of transloading equipment, including forklifts.
  • Participation in safety training programs, which may require brief and occasional travel.
  • Typical schedule - Monday - Friday, 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities

  • Ability to be exposed to the outdoor elements operate basic hand tools.
  • Must be physically able to do the following: Operate railcar hand brakes and rail switches; walk long distances; consistently sit, kneel, squat, bend, stand, and climb on elevated surfaces; work, walk, and stand on uneven ballast surfaces for long periods of time.
  • Lift 15 lbs. and work safely with this weight at knee, waist, and shoulder level; lift up to 50 lbs. consistently throughout the course of a shift.
  • Adherence personal hygiene and grooming standards as defined by the US Food and Drug Administration.
  • Respirators may be required due to the nature of our work; therefore, a clean-shaven face is acquired to ensure proper fit.
  • Prioritize and perform multiple tasks with the ability to meet daily demands and function in stressful situations.
  • Ability to operate and perform daily maintenance on forklifts including the ability to change clamps and exchange propane cylinders.
  • Demonstrate initiative to work with others to foster a respectful workplace.
  • Physically fitness includes the ability to pull self-up and down from truck and forklift and work outside in all weather conditions.
  • Able to accept new challenges and responsibilities as they arise.

Education & Experience

  • Strong mechanical skills.
  • Ability to follow written and/or verbal instructions with minimal supervision and pass a skills test on the type of work performed, work Holidays and weekends as needed, and work overtime when needed, travel to other sites as needed.
  • For safety reasons, you must be able to read write, understand, and follow written and/or verbal instructions in English.
  • Dependability in attendance is required.
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Note: This description is not intended to limit the assignment of work or be construed as a complete list of the many duties to be performed by the incumbent. The qualifications are provided so interested candidates understand the level of expertise required in this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.