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Railroad Switch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician-Pasadena, TX

Pasadena, TX · On-site

$18 - $23.40/hr

Learn more at Railserve Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This ...

Brown & Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX

Supervise, train, and evaluate the performance of yard employees, including switch operators, brakemen, and conductors. * Schedule work shifts for rail yard employees to ensure adequate coverage and ...

Brown and Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX

Supervise, train, and evaluate the performance of yard employees, including switch operators, brakemen, and conductors. * Schedule work shifts for rail yard employees to ensure adequate coverage and ...

Global Partners LP

Material Handler II

Clatskanie, OR · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Company-provided locomotive operator training, company-provided rail switch operator training, company-provided general rail safety training, company-provided TPIC training. * Currently possess or ...

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How much do railroad switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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 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 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 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.

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.

More about Railroad Switch Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Switch Operator jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Switch Operator job openings:
What states have the most Railroad Switch Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Switch Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Switch Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Switch Operator jobs are:
Railroad Switch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Switch Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,098 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Management Services

Roanoke, TX

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Pacific Rail Services is seeking applicants for the Rail Terminal Operator position to join our ever-growing team at the BNSF Alliance, TX Rail Terminal in a recession-proof industry! We require NO EXPERIENCE and are hiring immediately for this entry-level position.You will be an employee of Pacific Rail Services and not an employee of the Railroad.
Copy and paste the below YouTube link to see what you'll be doing!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uriQMlaUUsI&feature=youtu.be
You can apply online or at the work location in person:
BNSF Alliance Texas Terminal
Pacific Rail Services Office.
14821 Blue Mound Road.
Haslet, TX 76052.
APPLICANTS MUST currently live within a 45-minute commute of Haslet, TX. OUT OF AREA candidates and/or those requiring relocation will NOT be considered.

Hourly Pay with mandatory overtime. In your 1st year, you can expect to make $70,000 to $85,000 with overtime factored in!

Shifts Available:
  • Will work weekends starting/12-hour shifts.
  • Shift times are
    • 4 AM-4 PM
    • 8 AM-8 PM
    • 4 PM-4 AM
    • 8 PM -8 AM

Benefits: (Medical benefits start after 60 days and the first of the month after that. Other benefits start after your 90-day probationary period).
  • Affordable Healthcare, Free Dental, cheap Vision Benefits.
  • Free Life Insurance.
  • 6 paid holidays, paid personal days.
  • Boot reimbursement.
  • 401K.
  • Yearly Raises.
  • Vacation Pay.

Applicants for the Jockey Driver/Groundsperson position must meet the general requirements for employment with the company, according to the Company hiring process which includes:
  • Must have a Valid Driver's License.
  • Must be able to pass a 7-year background check, a drug test, and a Physical strength test.

This job would be suitable for persons looking for jobs in a warehouse, as a delivery driver, working outdoors, doing landscaping, and working in a railyard. If you can handle working in the elements and doing physical labor, this job could be a good fit for you.

About Rail Management Services:

One of America’s largest intermodal terminal operators, with more than 60 U.S. intermodal and auto handling facilities.Rail Management Services (RMS) is one of the largest suppliers of intermodal ramp services in the United States handling over 9 million lifts per year. An FRA certified rail switching service provider, RMS serves all U.S. Class 1 railroads.With more than three decades of experience focused on facilitating the railroad motor carrier interface, RMS has been the lowest cost and most efficient providers while maintaining one of the best safety records in the industry. Today RMS subsidiaries include Pacific Rail Services, Pacific Trailer Repair Services, Rail Terminal Services, Terminal Switching Services and PRS Auto.