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Railroad Yard Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Railway Yard Clerk

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$33.51 - $44.68/hr

The Yard Clerk works both in an office environment and while out in the rail yard. They will be ... Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Railway office and railyard environment; subject to ...

Yard Worker

Denver, CO · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Job Overview We are seeking a dependable, safety-focused Yard Worker to join our team in Denver, CO ... Responsibilities include sorting and organizing rail cars, coupling and uncoupling rail cars ...

Job Overview We are seeking a dependable, safety-focused Yard Worker to join our team in Denver, CO ... Responsibilities include sorting and organizing rail cars, coupling and uncoupling rail cars ...

Rail Yard Worker

Columbia, SC · On-site

$14.50/hr

PRS Auto (CSX West Columbia Railroad) Dixiana - South Carolina 3450 Charleston Hwy. W. Columbia, SC ... working outdoors, doing landscaping, and working in a railyard. You will be an employee of Pacific ...

Be Seen First

Lumber yard worker Overview Beeson Hardware & Lumber Company seeks efficient and customer-centered ... rails and hinges.

Yard Worker

Fairbanks, AK

$18.50 - $26.90/hr

... rail cars in accordance with DOT regulations and Carlile policies and procedures for OTR and OTW transport • Ensure trailers are organized and accounted for throughout the yard • Ensure that ...

Excellent co-workers * 401(k) * 401(k) matching * Bonus based on performance * Competitive salary ... railroad ties, fencing, farm & ranch gates, etc) * Maintains a safe, clean and well-organized ...

Yard Worker (Swing Shift)

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$20.50 - $30.80/hr

If so, we would love for you to join our team at Carlile Transportation as a Yard Worker. We are ... Tie down and secure loads on flatbeds, flat racks and rail cars in accordance with DOT ...

If so, we would love for you to join our team at Carlile Transportation as a Yard Worker. We are ... Tie down and secure loads on flatbeds, flat racks and rail cars in accordance with DOT ...

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Alliance, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Akron, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Medina, OH · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Medina, OH · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Elyria, OH · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

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Railroad Yard Worker information

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How much do railroad yard worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad yard worker in the United States is $17.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad yard worker?

Railroad Yard Workers, also known as yardmasters or switch operators, are responsible for coordinating and managing the movement of trains and railcars within a rail yard. They operate switches, couple and uncouple railcars, inspect equipment, and ensure that trains are assembled in the correct order for departure. Their work is crucial for the efficient and safe operation of freight and passenger rail systems, as they help organize cars for loading, unloading, and onward travel.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad yard worker?

To thrive as a Railroad Yard Worker, you need knowledge of rail operations, safety procedures, and basic mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand-held communication devices, railcar switching systems, and adherence to FRA regulations are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under physically demanding conditions are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial for ensuring operational safety, minimizing delays, and maintaining smooth rail yard operations.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad yard workers, and how can they be managed?

Railroad Yard Workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling physically demanding tasks, and maintaining safety in an active rail environment. Staying vigilant about safety protocols, wearing appropriate protective gear, and communicating effectively with team members are crucial strategies for managing these challenges. Many yards offer ongoing safety training and encourage collaboration, ensuring workers can support each other and minimize risk while maintaining efficiency.

What is the difference between Railroad Yard Worker vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectRailroad Yard WorkerRailroad Conductor
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training, conductor certification
Work EnvironmentRail yards, switching tracks, loading/unloadingOn trains, overseeing operations, passenger or freight service
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, freight companiesRailroads, passenger services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Railroad Yard Workers primarily handle switching, loading, and organizing freight within rail yards, requiring safety training and basic certifications. Railroad Conductors oversee train operations, ensure safety, and coordinate crew, often needing additional certifications. While both roles work within the railroad industry, Yard Workers focus on yard activities, whereas Conductors manage train movement and passenger or freight services.

How much does a railroad yard worker make?

Railroad yard workers typically earn an average annual salary between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on experience, location, and union status. They often work in physically demanding environments and may require safety certifications or training. Wages can vary based on the complexity of the yard operations and overtime hours.
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What cities are hiring for Railroad Yard Worker jobs?

Cities with the most Railroad Yard Worker job openings:

What states have the most Railroad Yard Worker jobs?

States with the most job openings for Railroad Yard Worker jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Yard Worker jobs?

For Railroad Yard Worker jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Railroad Yard Worker job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 71% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,156 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Railway Yard Clerk

Tacoma, WA • On-site

City of Tacoma
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$33.51 - $44.68/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


City Of Tacoma rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Description Tacoma Rail has provided rail transportation as a public entity since 1914. With 16 locomotives, more than 100 employees and about 43 miles of track in two operating divisions within Pierce County, Tacoma Rail provides key freight connections for customers in the greater Tacoma Washington area, handling in excess of 100,000 freight shipments per year. The Yard Clerk works both in an office environment and while out in the rail yard.

They will be performing data entry and clerical duties in the checking, marking, and recording of railway cars to support the billing and generation of reports. A significant portion of time is spent entering alphanumeric information in an accurate and timely manner. They will inform switching crew of railroad yard, location, disposition, and number of railroad cars to be switched for loading, unloading, makeup, and breakup of trains.

Responsibilities include: Check railroad tracks for railcars; record cars received from and returning to mainline railroads; mark cars to indicate destination. Yard Clerks must keep an accurate inventory of all railcars arriving and departing the Tacoma Railyard from our class 1 railroad partners and our many customers in the Tideflats. Enter electronic data related to the movement of railcars to maintain records; generate and distribute computer reports to appropriate railroad personnel.

Report railcar, track, or any other defects to appropriate personnel. Operate office equipment such as computers, printers and copiers; operate a motor vehicle as necessary to conduct work. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Railway office and railyard environment; subject to noise and fumes.

Position requires walking and climbing, including stairs and uneven surfaces. Position is subject to all weather conditions. Position requires availability to work during any 24 hour period.

Position is subject to 12 hour workdays. Qualifications An equivalent combination to: graduation from high school and two years' increasingly responsible clerical experience. Six months of railway yard clerk experience is preferred.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS Valid Washington State driver's license Successfully obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card and maintenance thereafter. Begin application process within 14 days of hire. Knowledge & Skills Record-keeping techniques.

Operation of a computer terminal. Railway rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Railway language and terms.

Safety regulations and precautions. Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy. Telephone techniques and etiquette.

Modern office practices, procedures and equipment. Maintain computerized records and generate reports. Anticipate and prioritize based upon changing circumstances.

Meet schedules and time limits. Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others. Operate office equipment machinery such as computer terminals, printers and copiers.

Operate a motor vehicle. Quickly adapt to changes in operating procedures. Selection Process & Supplemental Information This recruitment is being managed by Kye Merritt, if you would like to be notified of similar opportunities or stay connected with things going on at Tacoma Public Utilities and the City of Tacoma, connect with me on LinkedIn.

Compensation & Benefits Pay Details: Hourly Rate: $33.51 - $44.68 Employee Benefits | City of Tacoma City of Tacoma's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion A Commitment to Equity & Diversity At the City of Tacoma, we're on a mission to make our workforce as diverse and inclusive as the community we serve. We actively seek out candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. Join our team at the City of Tacoma and help us build a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable community for all

If you have a less traditional background, we want to hear about your transferrable skills and experience. We value a variety of perspectives and are excited to see what you bring to the table. The Community Tacoma is centrally located just 32 miles south of the city of Seattle and 31 miles north of the state capital, Olympia.

The City of Tacoma is also home to the Port of Tacoma, which is among the largest container ports in the United States. Like most cities in the northwest, Tacoma is surrounded by beautiful nature, offering residents many opportunities for outdoor adventures. Largely suburban in nature with a small, but dense, urban core, Tacoma is home to numerous institutes of higher learning that attract students from across the country.

The University of Washington Tacoma, Pacific Lutheran University, University of Puget Sound, a satellite campus of the Evergreen State College, three community/technical colleges, and several trade and business schools are within Tacoma's geographic area. Downtown's Cultural District is the site of the Washington State History Museum, Museum of Glass, the Tacoma Art Museum, and America's Car Museum. With its affordable housing and distinctive neighborhoods and business districts, the city has been recognized numerous times as a best city to live in the nation.

To see a few of the great things Tacoma has to offer, view this YouTube Video. View this exciting video to learn more about the City of Tacoma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n5MWl8KFvI Application Process Interested individuals should apply online by completing the application and attaching a resume and cover letter by the closing date and time listed on the job announcement. Applications received without attaching the required materials may not progress in the selection process

Applicants who have the strongest backgrounds related to the responsibilities of this position may be invited to participate in the interview process, which may include a work problem. Appointment is subject to passing a background check. Get Assistance For assistance with the application process or questions regarding this job announcement please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591-5400 by 4:00 p.m

of the closing date of the job announcement. For technical difficulties using the NEOGOV system, call the applicant support line at 1-855-524-5627 between 6:00a.m. and 5:00 p.m

Pacific Standard Time. This will allow us to assist you before the job announcement closes. Communication with the City of Tacoma We primarily communicate via email during the application process.

Emails from Tacoma.gov and/or governmentjobs.com should be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders. Note: The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract

Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice.


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