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Railroad Terminal Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Terminal Operator

Wall, PA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Join Our Team as a Rail Terminal Operator - Pittsburgh, PA. Pacific Rail Services is hiring ... railroad. Great fit for candidates with experience in warehouse work, truck driving (CDL or non ...

Rail Terminal Operator

Spokane, WA · On-site

$40K - $50K/hr

Rail Terminal Services is hiring right now for a Hostler Driver / Groundperson position working ... No Railroad Experience? No Problem! If you've worked in a warehouse, driven deliveries, operated a ...

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Railroad Terminal Operator information

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$13

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$28

How much do railroad terminal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad terminal operator in the United States is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Railroad Terminal Operators?

Railroad Terminal Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of rail terminals, including coordinating train arrivals and departures, managing cargo loading and unloading, and ensuring the safe movement of railcars within the terminal. They work closely with train crews, yardmasters, and other terminal staff to maintain efficient and safe operations. Their duties may also involve monitoring equipment, tracking shipments, and following strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and delays.

What are some common challenges faced by Railroad Terminal Operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Railroad Terminal Operators often work in shifts that can include nights, weekends, and holidays to ensure continuous operations. This schedule can present challenges such as fatigue, maintaining focus during irregular hours, and balancing personal commitments. Effective time management, adhering to safety protocols, and good communication with team members can help mitigate these challenges. Many employers also provide training and support to help operators manage shift-related demands and promote a safe, collaborative work environment.

What is the difference between Railroad Terminal Operator vs Railroad Switchman?

AspectRailroad Terminal OperatorRailroad Switchman
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, terminals, control roomsRail yards, track switching areas
Employer & IndustryRailroads, freight companiesRailroads, freight companies
Job FocusManaging terminal operations, coordinating train movementsSwitching trains, directing track movements

Railroad Terminal Operators and Railroad Switchmen both work in rail yards and require safety training. While Terminal Operators oversee overall terminal operations and coordinate train movements, Switchmen focus on track switching and directing train routes. Both roles are essential in rail freight operations and share similar work environments and credentials.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Terminal Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with railroad switching systems, radio communication equipment, and rail yard management software is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help operators coordinate efficiently and safely. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring smooth rail operations, preventing accidents, and maintaining timely freight movement.
What cities are hiring for Railroad Terminal Operator jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Terminal Operator job openings:
What states have the most Railroad Terminal Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Terminal Operator jobs include:
Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Management Services

Wilmerding, PA

$50K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team as a Rail Terminal Operator – Pittsburgh, PA.
Pacific Rail Services is hiring full-time Rail Terminal Operators to work with us at the Norfolk Southern Rail Terminal in Pittsburgh, PA. This is a permanent position in a stable, recession-proof industry with excellent long-term career potential. No experience? No problem! We provide all the training you need to succeed.
If you’re ready for a hands-on role with great pay, benefits, and growth opportunities, we want to hear from you!
What You’ll Do:
  • Operate jockey trucks to move 53-foot trailers, containers, and chassis.
  • Climb on and off railcars, secure tracks, and handle connectors.
  • Assist crane operators using hand signals.
  • Stack/unstack chassis and load/unload racks.
  • Work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Want a glimpse of what you'll be doing? Watch the Job Preview Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uriQMlaUUsI
Pay:
  • Starting at $19.50/hr.
  • Annual earning potential: $50,000–$65,000.

Schedule:
  • Must be available to work nights and weekends!
  • Tuesday–Saturday: 5 PM – 1 AM.
  • Saturday: 12 PM – 8 PM.
  • Overtime available.

Benefits:
  • Comprehensive Medical, dental, and low cost vision (after 60 days and the 1st of the month).
  • Free company provided life insurance.
  • Paid holidays and personal days.
  • Boot reimbursement.
  • 401(k).
  • Yearly raises.
  • Vacation pay.
  • Weekly pay.
  • Union membership.
  • Company-provided uniforms.

Requirements:
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Pass a 7-year background check (Felonies in the last 7 years or jail time in the last 5 years may disqualify applicants)
  • Pass drug test and physical capabilities test.
  • No diploma or GED required.
  • Must live within 45 minutes of Wall, PA (no relocation assistance).

Apply Today:
  • Send your resume in response to this post.

Note: You will be employed by Pacific Rail Services, not the railroad.
Great fit for candidates with experience in warehouse work, truck driving (CDL or non-CDL), delivery, outdoor labor, or landscaping.

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.