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Railroad Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Federal Railroad Administration

MO

$89K/yr

Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment. * General safety and health principles and practices applicable to the railroad industry. * Railroad accident ...

Federal Railroad Administration

MO · On-site

$89K/yr

Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment. * General safety and health principles and practices applicable to the railroad industry. * Railroad accident ...

Federal Railroad Administration

MO · On-site

$89K/yr

Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment. * General safety and health principles and practices applicable to the railroad industry. * Railroad accident ...

Trilon

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Kansas City, MO · On-site

Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region. * Support business development activities including client engagement ...

Trilon Group

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Kansas City, MO · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region. * Support business development activities including client engagement ...

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Prepper

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$20/hr

Road & Rail Services Location: Kansas City, MO Starting Pay: $20.00 per hour Job Type: Full-time ... Experience safely operating basic hand and power tools. Ability to understand and follow written ...

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Railroad Operator information

See Missouri salary details

$8

$17

$36

How much do railroad operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad operator in Missouri is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $18.84 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.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Operator jobs in Missouri?

For Railroad Operator jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Operator jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Operator jobs in Missouri are:

Railroad Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Operator job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,101 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Rail Terminal Operator

Chesterfield, MO • On-site

Rail Management Services
Trucking • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Rail Management Servicesexternal

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

We are hiring immediately for this position working at the BNSF St Louis Rail Terminal in a recession-proof industry! This is an entry-level position with on-the-job training. We'll teach you everything you need to know in order to be successful on the job. No Experience is required. The job is a combination of a Hostler Driver and Ground Person as they are 1 and the same job.

What You'll Do:
  • This role combines the responsibilities of a Hostler Driver and Ground Person. You will learn to operate a jockey truck, maneuvering 53ft trailers, containers, and chassis around the rail yard.
  • Engage in various ground duties, including climbing on and off railcars, securing tracks, and handling inner box connectors (IBCs).
  • Assist crane operators/Side Loaders with equipment loading and unloading using hand signals.
  • Play a key role in stacking and unstacking chassis, as well as loading and unloading chassis racks.
  • Fulfill other assigned duties in a dynamic and team-oriented work environment.
  • Watch Our Job Preview Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uriQMlaUUsI

Starting Rate: $20.00/hr with no experience (Possibility to start at a higher rate if you have previous Jockey Experience) 

Shifts:
  • First shift 0600-1800 ( 12 hours)
  • 2nd shift 1800-0400(10 hours)

Benefits: (Medical Starts after 60 days and the first of the month after that. Other benefits start after your probationary period)
  • Affordable Healthcare and Vision Benefits, Free Dental
  • Free Life Insurance
  • 6 paid holidays as well as Sick Time and Vacation Pay
  • 401K available
  • Yearly Raises
  • Advancement Opportunities to become a lift operator, foreman, supervisor, and even management.

Qualifications: (NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED)
  • Have a valid Driver's License.
  • Pass a drug test & a Physical Capabilities Test
  • No GED or diploma required
  • Strong communication skills required
  • There are other requirements not listed that will be discussed during the interview process.

APPLICANTS MUST currently live within a 45-minute commute of St Louis. OUT OF AREA candidates and/or those requiring relocation will NOT be considered.

This job would be suitable for persons looking for jobs in a warehouse, as a delivery driver, a forklift driver, working outdoors, a laborer, doing landscaping, and working in a railyard.
You will be employed directly by Pacific Rail Services and will not be considered an employee of the Railroad.