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Railroad Switch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ssc

Transload Operator Laborer

Delaware City, DE · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Work as a team to position the rail cars for unloading, acting as a switch operator, grounds person or locomotive operator, where applicable. * May act as a control room operator who monitors pumps ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician- Marion, OH

Marion, OH

$25 - $27/hr

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being ... Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction ...

Marmon

Lake Charles- Operator Helper (Rail)

Sulphur, LA

$22 - $25/hr

Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This role supports the timely and ...

New

TMS International

Railroad Operator

Axis, AL · On-site

Perform switching operations safely and efficiently * Protect train and locomotive movements * Line and secure switches * Couple and uncouple railcars * Apply and release hand brakes * Conduct ...

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Railroad Switch Operator information

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How much do railroad switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad switch operator in the United States is $23.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 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.

What are railroad switch operators?

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.
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Railroad Switch Operator jobs near you
Rail Operator

Rail Operator

Quantix Supply Chain Solutions

Rincon, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Quantix Supply Chain Solutions rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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 giving track locations and for all interplant Rail Switching per instructions from Rail Coordinator.
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 other employees, customers and suppliers.
  • Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
  • Support the efforts of management in meeting profit and growth objectives as established in the strategic business plan.
  • Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and the organizations.
  • Work safely, within the company guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOP) and Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

Our Core values define our culture and create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Our core values are:
SAFETY - The safety of our employees, customers and our communities is at the forefront of everything we do.
PERFECTION - We relentlessly strive for perfection, to provide unmatched quality services and constantly raising the bar on our performance.
SUSTAINABILITY - We are stewards of the environment, committed to protecting our natural resources and reducing waste.
RESPECT - We treat all people with dignity and value the collective power of teamwork.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP - We are scrappy, bold and never satisfied with the status quo.
Requirements
Summary of essential job functions
This job includes the following duties and any other as assigned by current manager:
  • To ensure Total Customer Satisfaction.
  • Follow all safety rules and regulations.
  • Complete daily inspections of equipment to be used kept clean and in good running order.
  • Must be knowledgeable on how to use all equipment necessary to complete any task given daily.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the Switching Locomotive and Rail Track area.
  • Operate all in plant Rail Movement adhering to A&R Rail Operating Procedures and Safety Rules.
  • Communicate about any problems or concerns you may have with equipment or processes.
  • Immediately acknowledge and/or accept responsibility for damage to product, equipment, etc & Responsible for taking direction from Supervisor and or Rail Coordinator.
  • Responsible for any other duties as assigned by Management

Minimum requirements
  • High School Degree / Associates Preferred
  • Rail Car Mover including switchmen or Locomotive / Track Mobile Engineer preferred.
  • Basic knowledge and good safety record in working in an industrial setting.
  • Good understanding of Rail Track switching &Track Systems.
  • Good understanding of Train air &Brake systems as well as Locomotive power systems.
  • Computer Proficiency with excel spread sheets, google docs, etc. Internal certifications for Safe Rail Operating procedures
  • Abilities required
  • Physically strong / healthy &capable walking / climbing / bending.
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Abilities required
These physical demands are representative of the physical requirements necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the described essential job functions.
While performing the responsibilities, the employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is often required to sit and use their hands and fingers, to handle or feel and to manipulate keys on a keyboard. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision.
Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

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