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Railroad Terminal Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jurgensen Companies

Terminal Operator

Waterloo, IN · On-site

Benchmark River & Rail Distribution Terminals is excited to bring on new team members. We offer stability, competitive pay, and an amazing benefits package. Terminal Operator Responsibilities: * Work ...

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Railroad Terminal Operator information

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$13

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How much do railroad terminal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Railroad terminal operators typically do not earn $4,000 per week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree are rare and often involve skilled trades, sales, or entrepreneurship, but most roles at this income level require significant experience or licensing. It is important to research specific industries and roles for accurate salary expectations.

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.

How hard is it to become a train operator?

Becoming a railroad terminal operator typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, gaining relevant experience, and often obtaining certifications such as safety or operational licenses. Training programs are provided by employers, and candidates must pass background checks and medical exams; the process can take several months to a year depending on the employer and location.

What is a rail terminal operator?

A rail terminal operator is responsible for managing the movement, loading, and unloading of freight at rail terminals. They coordinate train schedules, operate equipment, and ensure safety protocols are followed in a busy rail yard environment. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of safety procedures are essential for this role.

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.

How much does a rail terminal operator make?

A rail terminal operator typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires knowledge of safety procedures, equipment operation, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA training.

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:
Railroad Terminal Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Terminal Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,418 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Management Services LLC

Roanoke, TX • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

About the Job
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 the Company
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.

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