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Railroad Switch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brown & Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

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 · On-site

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 ...

Twin Eagle

Rail Operator (Douglas)

Douglas, WY · On-site

The Rail Operator oversees all functions of the rail operations and assists with loading and ... This position is responsible for safely switching railcars in the yard, safe train movement, and ...

Energy Transfer Equity Lp

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

... railroad. * Add/remove railcars as needed to ensure outbound train tenders are met ... Stage and secure railcars for inbound/outbound switches and railcar repair. * Perform general ...

Energy transfer

Rail Operator

Wellington, UT · On-site

$28.75/hr

... railroad. * Add/remove railcars as needed to ensure outbound train tenders are met ... Stage and secure railcars for inbound/outbound switches and railcar repair. * Perform general ...

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Railroad Switch Operator information

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$12

$23

$39

How much do railroad switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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.
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Railroad Switch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Switch Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,098 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Switch Technician

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Miles City, MT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Marmon Holdings rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Transco Rail Services
As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings-which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway-you'll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We're committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone's empowered to be their best.
Who we are:
Transco Rail Services, along with Union Tank Car Company (UTLX) and Procor, delivers full-service railcar repair and maintenance through a broad North American network of fixed shops and mobile field service teams. Serving freight and tank car fleets across multiple industries, we are committed to safety, compliance, quality, and reliable service.
Job Description:
We are looking for a Switch Technician to operate locomotives to move railcars from a switch list.
Job Requirements:
  • Safely operate locomotive.

  • Regularly operate locomotive in a congested area and must use considerable caution to prevent damage to rail cars or accidents to employees.

  • Basic reading, writing and arithmetic skills required.

  • Operates switches and direct flow of cars in rail yard.

  • Experience in operating a locomotive (switch engine).

  • Maintain work area in a neat and orderly manner and report potential hazards.

  • Ability to lift 50 pounds safely.

  • Able to pass drug screen and physical.

  • Ability to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving the whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.

  • May work in confined spaces and at heights exceeding 4 ft. off the ground with proper PPE and fall protection.

  • Close mental and visual attention required, coordinating manual dexterity with mental and visual attention for sustained periods of time.

What We Offer:
  • Transco strives to be the Employer of Choice. Our generous benefits package includes:

  • Benefits on Day 1

  • Medical/Dental/Vision with first in class vendors

  • Health Savings Account

  • Flexible Spending Account (Medical and Dependent Care)

  • Company Paid Benefits: Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • 4 weeks of Paid Parental Leave

  • Vacation Benefits

  • 401k with generous company match and additional employer annual contribution.

Do not worry if you think that you do not meet all the qualifications. The tools, technology, and methodologies we use are constantly changing and we value talent and interest over specific experience.
It is the policy of Transco to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons, and to recruit, hire, train, promote, and compensate persons in all job without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation, gender identify, protected veteran status or any other protected characteristic protected by the law. #LI-DNI
Pay Range:
25.20 - 30.80
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental, vision, 401k matching, and more!
Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to careers@marmon.com, and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.

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