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Railroad Switch Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Yard Master

Gregory, TX · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

... 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 ...

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Yard Master

Gregory, TX · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

... 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 ...

360 Rail Services

Railroad Track Laborer

Baytown, TX · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

360 Rail Services, LLC is a locally owned and operated railroad design, construction, and ... Repair and/or replace turnout components as needed, such as switch points, frogs, plates etc.

TrinityRail

Rail Site Coordinator

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

Maintain proactive relationships with local railroad contacts, plant switching operators, and relevant personnel from manufacturing and supply chain organizations * Communicate with class I, regional ...

Trinity Industries

Rail Site Coordinator

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Maintain proactive relationships with local railroad contacts, plant switching operators, and relevant personnel from manufacturing and supply chain organizations * Communicate with class I, regional ...

METRO

Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

LRT Operators are required to clearly understand the requirements and responsibilities for the ... Utilizes circuit breakers, brake cutouts and bypass switches under the direction of Rail ...

METRO

Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

LRT Operators are required to clearly understand the requirements and responsibilities for the ... Utilizes circuit breakers, brake cutouts and bypass switches under the direction of Rail ...

Twin Eagle

Terminal Operator

Floresville, TX · On-site

The Terminal Operator is responsible for managing the safe and efficient loading and unloading of ... Oversee the operation of locomotives or other railcar movers to perform rail switch operations for ...

Twin Eagle

Terminal Operator

Floresville, TX · On-site

The Terminal Operator is responsible for managing the safe and efficient loading and unloading of ... Oversee the operation of locomotives or other railcar movers to perform rail switch operations for ...

Savage Transload Network LLC

Yard Master

Gregory, TX

$13.50 - $17/hr

... 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 ...

Bunge

Associate III/Tracks Operator

Fort Worth, TX

$26.66/hr

Coordinate rail switch with the railroad * Record operating data such as products and quantities pumped, gauge readings, and operating times, manually or using computers * Additional duties as ...

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Vidor, TX · On-site

Responsibilities include operation of locomotives, railcar movements (switching) and the operation ... Rail - Scrap Yard Operators are responsible for safe rail movement to support plant operations.

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$27.56 - $29.80/hr

Responsibilities include operation of locomotives, railcar movements (switching) and the operation ... Rail - Scrap Yard Operators are responsible for safe rail movement to support plant operations.

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$27.56 - $29.80/hr

Responsibilities include operation of locomotives, railcar movements (switching) and the operation ... Rail - Scrap Yard Operators are responsible for safe rail movement to support plant operations.

Bunge

Associate III/Tracks Operator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$26.66/hr

Coordinate rail switch with the railroad * Record operating data such as products and quantities pumped, gauge readings, and operating times, manually or using computers * Additional duties as ...

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All JobsRailroad Switch Operator JobsRailroad Switch Operator Jobs in Texas

Railroad Switch Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$21

$37

How much do railroad switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad switch operator in Texas is $21.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $25.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad switch operator?

Railroad switch operators are workers responsible for controlling the tracks that guide trains from one track to another within rail yards or along rail lines. They operate track switches and signals to ensure trains are directed safely and efficiently to their intended routes. These operators communicate with train crews and other yard personnel to coordinate train movements and prevent accidents. Their role is crucial for the smooth operation of rail transportation systems.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Switch Operator, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with signaling systems, track-switching equipment, and safety protocols is essential, and some employers may require certification in railway safety standards. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient movement of trains and minimize the risk of accidents within the rail yard.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by railroad switch operators during their shifts?

Railroad Switch Operators often work in outdoor environments and may face challenges such as inclement weather, night shifts, and the need for constant vigilance to ensure safety. They must coordinate closely with train crews and dispatchers to prevent errors that could lead to delays or accidents. Additionally, handling heavy equipment and responding quickly to unexpected changes in train schedules are common aspects of the role that require both physical stamina and strong communication skills.

What is the difference between Railroad Switch Operator vs Track Maintainer?

AspectRailroad Switch OperatorTrack Maintainer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, certification in switch operationHigh school diploma, safety training, track inspection certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, switching areas, near moving trainsRailroad tracks, maintenance yards, outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, freight companies, transit agenciesRailroads, transit agencies, construction companies

The Railroad Switch Operator primarily focuses on operating and controlling track switches to direct train movements, ensuring safety and efficiency. In contrast, the Track Maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railroad tracks and infrastructure. While both roles require safety training and certifications, the Switch Operator emphasizes switch control, whereas the Maintainer concentrates on track integrity and repairs.

How to become a railroad switch operator?

To become a railroad switch operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Knowledge of safety procedures, communication skills, and the ability to operate control systems are essential, and some positions may require certification or licensing depending on the region. Physical stamina and attention to detail are also important for working in this environment.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Railroad Switch Operator jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Railroad Switch Operator job openings:

Railroad Switch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Switch Operator job openings in Texas 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 $45,742 per year, or $22 per hour.

Yard Master

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Gregory, TX • On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

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!
Yard Masters are responsible for managing and coordinating activities within a rail yard, ensuring efficient train operations and safety. Working in a safety and environmentally sensitive, customer service driven environment, incumbents must work well in teams to maximize efficiency and safety and deliver to the customer's schedule.
Roles & Responsibilities
  • Use yard management software to ensure that all railcars that enter, exit, load, or unload in the facility are accurately documented.
  • Create switch lists based on day-to-day needs and changes in the yard.
  • Proactively predict logistics difficulties, use problem solving skills to actively prevent logistics difficulties before they happen.
  • Actively monitor activities in the yard using video monitoring equipment.
  • Respond to active reporting needs from the Customer, Logistics, or Operations Managers.
  • Provide data and reports to aid logistics.
  • Ensure adequate information and communication is conducted with the Union Pacific railroad.
  • Performing recordkeeping duties related to the switch lists and instructions from Customer.
  • Will need to accurately and professionally hand off logistics tasks surrounding shift changes.
Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities
  • Detailed understanding of the needs of rail switch crews.
  • Ability to communicate detailed instructions and patiently repeat instructions in order for them to be performed correctly.
  • Ability to handle different and competing deadlines between Savage, the Class-1 Railroad, and the Customer's logistics team.
  • Able to work a 2 on - 2 off - 3 on, 2 off - 2 on - 3 off, 12 -hour night-time schedule. This will result in holidays and weekends being on rotation as well.
  • Able to work with limited supervision - can accurately and efficiently create switch lists based on consistent needs.
  • Understands the importance and demonstrates professionalism and customer service, quickly and professionally responds to day-to-day Customer needs.
  • Ability to anticipate needs of the Operation/Managers/Team Members.
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize time-sensitive work assignments on a daily basis.
  • Good written and oral skills with an ability to communicate with Customers and other Cando Team Members in person or via radio.
  • Demonstrates a sense of ownership for responsibilities, understands the correct execution of their tasks have implications for the entire team.
  • Positive attitude: treats others with fairness and respect - expects the same in return.
  • Is honest in dealings with the customers, company, and employees.
  • Attention to detail, self-motivated, and good organizational skills.
  • Identify problem areas with Customers and work with manager to develop a resolution.
Education & Experience
  • 2+ Years' experience in a rail-centric facility required.
  • Experience in logistics-sensitive administrative or supervisory tasks preferred.
  • Background using SAP or equivalent Customer inventory systems preferred.
  • High school graduate or GED equivalent required.
  • Office environment located in an industrial plant.
  • Must be able to sit for prolonged periods of time.
  • May be asked to travel long distances, on occasion, for additional training or support.

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 of 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.

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