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Railroad Switching Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Management Services

Railroad Engineer

Houston, TX

$17 - $18/hr

Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks. * Ability to connect and disconnect rail air hoses as needed to consolidate rail cars efficiently. * Lead job briefings with the ...

Marmon

Midland- Rail Switching Technician

Midland, MI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive service and repair for customers who depend on safe, reliable rail ...

Marmon

Decatur- Rail Switching Technician

Decatur, IL

$22.50 - $24/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Decatur, IL to support daily rail operations at an industrial facility. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Operator

Cincinnati, OH

$21.50 - $24.50/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Cincinnati, OH to support daily rail operations at an industrial facility. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role ...

Marmon

Rosemount- Rail Switching Technician

Rosemount, MN · On-site

$27 - $29/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Rosemount, MN to support daily rail operations at an industrial facility. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role ...

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Railroad Switching information

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How much do railroad switching jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad switching in the United States is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad switching operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Railroad switching operators often work in environments with tight schedules, exposure to varying weather conditions, and the need to coordinate closely with conductors and engineers. Challenges include ensuring safety during track changes, managing heavy equipment, and responding quickly to operational changes or emergencies. Effective communication, strong situational awareness, and adherence to safety protocols are essential to managing these challenges and maintaining smooth rail yard operations. Teamwork and regular training also play important roles in minimizing risks and improving efficiency.

What is the difference between Railroad Switching vs Railroad Conductors?

AspectRailroad SwitchingRailroad Conductors
Primary RoleMoving railcars within rail yards and assembling trainsOverseeing train operations, ensuring safety, and managing crew
CredentialsTypically requires certification in switching operations and safety trainingRequires conductor certification and experience in train handling
Work EnvironmentRail yards, industrial areas, and switching facilitiesOnboard trains, rail yards, and stations
Industry UsageCommonly used in rail yard operations and freight handlingUsed across passenger and freight train services

Railroad switching and railroad conductors both play vital roles in rail operations. Switching focuses on organizing and moving railcars within yards, while conductors oversee train operations and safety during transit. Although their responsibilities differ, both roles require safety certifications and are essential for efficient rail service.

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 strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training often provided. Familiarity with rail yard operations, signaling systems, and safety protocols is essential, and some positions may require certification in railroad operations or safety. Exceptional communication, situational awareness, and the ability to work under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient coordination of train movements and help prevent accidents or delays in busy rail environments.

What are railroad switching jobs?

Railroad switching jobs involve moving rail cars within a rail yard or industrial facility to organize trains, assemble new trains, or deliver cars to specific tracks for loading and unloading. Workers in these roles, often called switch operators or yardmasters, are responsible for operating track switches, coupling and uncoupling cars, and ensuring cars are in the correct order for their destinations. Safety and coordination are critical, as these tasks require communication with train crews and following strict procedures. Railroad switching jobs are essential for efficient rail operations and the timely delivery of freight.
More about Railroad Switching jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Switching jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Switching job openings:
What states have the most Railroad Switching jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Switching jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Switching jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Switching jobs are:
Railroad Switching jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Switching job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,288 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Loader / Railroad Switching Technician

Loader / Railroad Switching Technician

PSC Group, Human Resources

Scio, OH • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

PSC Group rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 113 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 339 rated logistics

Job description

Loader / Rail Switching Technician
Looking to join a company that values safety, training, and teamwork? PSC Group is hiring a full-time Rail Loader - Switching Technician. This is your opportunity to build a stable, long-term career in the industrial chemical industry with a company that puts its employees first. Join the PSC family today!
Job Duties & Responsibilities:
Loader
• Cleans and visually inspects the railcar before transfer to ensure that it is mechanically sound
• Connects or disconnects loading arm hose for transfer of product
• Inspects for any leaks, weighs railcars and completes required paperwork
Rail Switching
• Examines track list to plan railcars to be spotted, separated, loaded, and/or built for shipment
• May operate trackmobile or locomotive to safely move railcars in the plant
• Communicates with rail team members, leadership, and customer contacts
• Completes any other duties that may be assigned to complete the job
Job Qualifications:
• Experience is a plus but not required, and paid on-the-job training is available
• May require a valid Driver's License and / or a valid TWIC card, depending on work location
• 18 years or older and legally able to work in the U.S.
• Pass a drug screen, physical, and background check
• Wear all required PPE without restriction and pass any required medical exams
• Speak, write, read fluent English
• Regular on-site attendance and punctuality is required
• Previous military experience and proven ability to follow procedures is a plus
Work Schedule:
12 Hour Rotating Shift (Days/Nights/Weekends/Holidays)
Why join the PSC team?
  • Since 1952, PSC Group has had a strong reputation for quality service, safety, environmental protection, and taking care of our employees.
  • We are a leader in product handling and site logistics for refineries, chemical producers, and marine transportation providers.
  • The work we do makes a huge impact in our nation's economy. Check out our videos at PSC Group - Career Videos to learn more.
  • Check out our online newsletter "The Connection" which contains articles about our work groups, recognition events, and achievements of our employees and their family members at PSC Group - Newsletter.
  • Our Core Values serve as the foundation for all we do-how we conduct our business, serve our customers, and treat members of our PSC family. Learn more at PSC Group - Core Values.

Employee Benefits:
  • Medical insurance options with the company paying a large portion of the premiums, including affordable dental and vision plans for employees and their families
  • Company-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance
  • Matching 401(k) plan to help employees save money for retirement
  • Vacation, sick leave, and holiday benefits (varies by work group)
  • Incentives, discounts, and bonuses
  • Industry-leading training and development programs

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The above job description does not reflect all essential job functions or physical requirements.
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
PSC Group, formerly known as Petroleum Service Corporation, is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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