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Railroad Terminal Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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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How much do railroad terminal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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 is a railroad terminal operator?

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 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 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 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:

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Terminal Operator jobs?

For Railroad Terminal Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Railroad Terminal 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 $45,418 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Rail Terminal Operator

Spokane, WA โ€ข On-site

Rail Management Services LLC
Truckingย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

$40K - $55K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

About the Job
Jumpstart Your Career with Rail Terminal Services - Join Our Team in Spokane, WA!
Ready to step into a stable, rewarding job in a recession-proof industry? Rail Terminal Services is hiring right now for a Hostler Driver / Groundperson position working with us at the BNSF Spokane, WA Rail Terminal-and we're excited to bring YOU on board! No experience? No worries! This entry-level role comes with full on-the-job training-we'll teach you everything you need to succeed. Think of this as your chance to drive, learn, and grow in a dynamic role that combines Hostler Driver and Ground Person duties-all in one awesome job!
A Little About Us:
You'll be part of the Rail Terminal Services family (not the railroad itself)-a tight-knit crew with roots at rmsintermodal.com. We're all about growth, teamwork, and taking care of our people.
Live Close By? Perfect!
We're looking for folks who already live within a 45-minute commute of Spokane, WA. (Sorry, out-of-area candidates or those needing relocation-we can't consider you for this one.)
What Your Days (and Nights) Will Look Like:
  • Shifts include nights, weekends, and some holidays-flexibility is key!
  • Expect 8-10 hour days in a fast-paced, outdoor setting.
Earn Big from Day One:
  • Starting Pay: $18.00/hr with the chance to earn $40,000-$55,000 in your first year (hello, overtime!).
  • Weekly Pay: Get paid every week-no waiting around.
Perks You'll Love:
(Health benefits kick in after 60 days + the first of the month; other goodies start after your 90-day intro period.)
  • Affordable healthcare, free dental, and low-cost vision coverage.
  • Free life insurance-peace of mind included!
  • Paid holidays, personal days, and vacation pay (earned on your yearly anniversary).
  • Boot reimbursement and a 401K to help you save.
  • Yearly raises and overtime opportunities to boost your paycheck.
What You'll Be Doing:
This isn't just a job-it's an adventure! You'll:
  • Drive a jockey truck, moving 53ft trailers, containers, and chassis around the rail yard like a pro.
  • Get hands-on with ground duties-climbing railcars, securing tracks, and handling connectors.
  • Team up with crane operators, guiding them with hand signals to load and unload equipment.
  • Stack and unstack chassis, plus load/unload racks-every day's a little different!
  • Pitch in wherever needed in our fun, team-focused environment.
Want a sneak peek? Check out this YouTube video to see the action:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHaji3QqjMg
What We're Looking For:
  • You're 18+ with a valid driver's license (no CDL needed!).
  • You can pass a 7-year background check (no felonies in the last 7 years, jail/parole/probation in the last 5, or pending charges).
  • You'll ace a drug test and a physical capabilities test.
  • No GED or diploma required-just bring strong communication skills and a can-do attitude!

No Railroad Experience? No Problem!
If you've worked in a warehouse, driven deliveries, operated a forklift, or tackled outdoor jobs like landscaping or laboring, this could be your perfect fit.
Ready to Roll?
Apply today and let's get you started on a career that moves! For more about us and our family companies, visit www.rmsintermodal.com.