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Railroad Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Rail Yard Operator

Highland, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Catawba, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Westerville, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Richwood, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Mount Sterling, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Homer, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Laurelville, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Chesterville, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Ashley, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Xenia, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Jacksontown, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

Rail Yard Operator

Clarksburg, OH · On-site

$20.55 - $22.83/hr

Responsibilities Intermodal Equipment Operators/Terminal Operators assist intermodal yards in ... railroad operations. Use of cannabis is strictly prohibited. If applicable for the position you are ...

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Railroad Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$9

$18

$38

How much do railroad operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad operator in Ohio is $18.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.62 and $19.78 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 cities in Ohio are hiring for Railroad Operator jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Railroad Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Railroad Operator job openings in Ohio as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,943 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Rail Operator

Upper Sandusky, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Louis Dreyfus Company rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Company Description

Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. Our activities span the entire value chain from farm to fork, across a broad range of business lines, we leverage our global reach and extensive asset network to serve our customers and consumers around the world. Structured as a matrix organization of six geographical regions and ten platforms, Louis Dreyfus Company is active in over 100 countries and employs approximately 18,000 people globally.

Job Description

Overall Purpose and Objective of Position

This position maintains the rail yard and prepares railcars for loading and unloading of product at a soybean crushing and biodiesel plant.  Primary functions are to move railcars into position to be loaded, general maintenance of switch engines and track, inspecting and cleaning of railcars.  This associate is also responsible for complying with all applicable Company standards and government regulations. Also responsible for complying with all applicable Company and government regulations.

Primary Responsibilities/Essential Functions

  • Prepares railcars for loading and unloading of product in order to ensure timely delivery of all handled products.
  • Operate and maintain the rail engines in good working order and notifies superiors of rail engine or rail yard issues
  • Inspects and cleans railcars to make sure final products are not contaminated with foreign material.
  • Prepare railcars for switching with the rail road.
  • Ensures compliance with Company safety rules and wears proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required.

Additional Responsibilities Functions

  • Ensures work area is kept free from safety hazards which require regular bending and occasional lifting. 
  • Completes tasks assigned by the Superintendents and Shift Supervisors
  • Actively participates in Shift/Team activities including complying with best practices, standard operating procedures, development and maintenance and continuous improvement efforts.
  • Actively participates in job-related training as required.
  • Other duties as assigned

Company Conformance Statements

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to conform to the following:

  • Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
  • Interact professionally with co-workers, Company business associates and the general public.
  • Work together in a cooperative spirit to serve the best interests of the Company.
  • Operate in a fully responsible manner and comply with the law and Company policy.

Education/Professional Certifications/Licenses

Required qualification: High school diploma/GED.

Preferred qualification: Technical degree

Preferred qualification: Locomotive Engineer.

Experience

Basic qualifications: Three years’ experience in truck loading and unloading, rail tank, car loading,

            and/or operating a rail engine

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (including any physical demands)

Basic qualifications:

  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes and procedures.
  • Ability to operate machinery and computer systems while maintaining compliance with regulatory safety requirements, e.g., OSHA (including PSM), EPA, USDA, ISO 9000 and B-Q-9000.
  • Ability to climb stairs and ladders as well as work at heights; manage confined space entry, withstand extended periods of walking and standing; move manufacturing materials, products and equipment of 50 pounds or more which requires bending and lifting. 
  • Mechanical aptitude, effective communication skills, basic math and fundamental PC skills.

Equipment Used

  • Use of hand tools.
  • Use of computer for entering data into electronic data system and control operating equipment.
  • Use of occupational health and safety testing equipment (e.g., air monitors) in compliance with OSHA regulations.
  • Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required.

Working Conditions

Safety Sensitive position with Continuous 24/7 plant operation.  Regular exposure to a variety of temperatures and prevailing weather conditions; regular exposure to gases, vapors, dust, odors and flammable liquids; occasional exposure to areas with wet floors and high volume of noise.  Heavy lifting of manufacturing materials and products is required. Position will require regular stair climbing and extended periods of walking and standing in order to access and occasionally work in remote areas of the plant, heights and confined spaces.  Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be worn in compliance with Company standards and government regulations.  Extensions of regular working hours are occasionally necessary to complete time-sensitive projects or to respond to emergencies. 

Quality & Product Safety Responsibilities

  • Maintains good working knowledge of Quality and Product Safety policies, rules and procedures applicable to area of responsibility and ensures all applicable requirements are adhered to
  • Ensures employees are provided required training for area assigned, and jobs and tasks prior to assigning work
  • Ensures area of responsibility is maintained in orderly and product safe manner
  • Ensure unsafe product working conditions are remedied as soon as practicable

Employee Supervision

  • No direct supervisory responsibilities.

Decision Making/Accountability

  • Follows established laboratory procedures to ensure the safe and efficient operation to meet facility needs and production goals
  • Works independently on routine duties but consults with supervisor on any problems
  • Comply with governmental and company policies, regulations, and standards to ensure compliance
Additional Information

Additional Information for the job

What We Offer

We provide a dynamic and stimulating international environment, which will stretch and develop your abilities and channel your skills and expertise with outstanding career development opportunities in one of the largest and most solid private companies in the world.

- Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insurance and disability coverage
- 401k with Company Match
- Family Friendly Benefits including childbirth and parental leave, fertility and family building benefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
- Flexible work available (not applicable to all roles)

Diversity & Inclusion
LDC is driven by a set of shared values and high ethical standards, with diversity and inclusion being part of our DNA. LDC is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity, equity and inclusion.
LDC encourages diversity, supports local communities and environmental initiatives. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

Equal employment opportunity (EEO)

Louis Dreyfus Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Sustainability
Sustainable value is at the heart of our purpose as a company.
We are passionate about creating fair and sustainable value, both for our business and for other value chain stakeholders: our people, our business partners, the communities we touch and the environment around us


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