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Railway Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brown and Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

Rail Yard Operations: * Direct and coordinate the movement of trains and railcars within the yard, including the assembly, disassembly, and switching of train cars. * Assign and direct train crews to ...

Brown & Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

Rail Yard Operations: * Direct and coordinate the movement of trains and railcars within the yard, including the assembly, disassembly, and switching of train cars. * Assign and direct train crews to ...

Brown & Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

Rail Yard Operations: * Direct and coordinate the movement of trains and railcars within the yard, including the assembly, disassembly, and switching of train cars. * Assign and direct train crews to ...

U.S. Sugar

Railroad Dispatcher

Clewiston, FL · On-site

Plan train movements to minimize delays and support efficient railroad operations. * Coordinate track access for maintenance, inspections, repairs, and other field activities. * Maintain accurate ...

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Railway Operations information

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$11

$19

$30

How much do railway operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for railway operations in the United States is $19.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in railway operations?

To thrive in Railway Operations, you need a solid understanding of rail transport systems, safety regulations, and scheduling, often supported by relevant technical education or industry certifications. Familiarity with signaling systems, control software, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing logistics and coordinating with diverse teams. These competencies ensure safe, efficient railway operations and minimize disruptions in a highly regulated environment.

What are some common challenges faced in railway operations, and how are they typically managed?

Railway operations professionals often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, ensuring passenger and freight safety, and coordinating with multiple departments (e.g., signaling, maintenance, and dispatch). Delays due to weather, equipment malfunctions, or track obstructions require quick problem-solving and clear communication with the broader operations team. To address these challenges, railways implement rigorous safety protocols, use advanced scheduling software, and foster a collaborative work environment where information is shared promptly to minimize disruptions.

What is the difference between Railway Operations vs Railway Signaling?

AspectRailway OperationsRailway Signaling
Primary RoleOversees daily train movements, scheduling, and safety proceduresDesign, installation, and maintenance of signaling systems to control train traffic
Required CertificationsRailway safety certifications, operational trainingSignaling system certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentTrain yards, control centers, on-site operationsControl rooms, maintenance facilities, technical sites
Industry UsageUsed across railway companies for train managementSpecialized role supporting railway safety and traffic control

Railway Operations focuses on managing train movements and ensuring safety during daily operations, while Railway Signaling involves maintaining the systems that control train traffic. Both roles are essential for railway safety and efficiency but differ in responsibilities and technical requirements.

What are railway operations?

Railway operations involve managing the movement of trains, ensuring safety, scheduling, and coordination of rail traffic. It includes tasks such as route planning, signal control, and maintenance to keep rail services efficient and reliable. Railway operations require knowledge of safety protocols, communication systems, and often certification or training in railway safety standards.
More about Railway Operations jobs

What states have the most Railway Operations jobs?

States with the most job openings for Railway Operations jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Railway Operations jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Railway Operations jobs are:

Railway Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railway Operations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,222 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Railroad Operations Manager

City of Columbia, MO

Columbia, MO • On-site

$66K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Applicant View of Posting
Posting Number
4287P
Position Title
Railroad Operations Manager
Department
Utilities
Job Code
02620
FLSA Status
Exempt
Union Code/Affiliation
Unrepresented
Division
WL RAILROAD
Job Description Summary
The purpose of this job is to manage and direct Railroad and Transload staff and operations. Ensures compliance with city, state, and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) policies. Works with customers on movement of rail cars.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities - The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description
  • Supervises, manages, and evaluates assigned employees and makes decisions about hiring, discipline and/or termination of employees; prioritizes and assigns work; develops and oversees employee work schedules and approves time away from work; provides and/or facilitates employee training and development; addresses employee concerns and/or problems; counsels and/or disciplines as appropriate; completes employee performance appraisals; determines or makes recommendations regarding new hire salaries; and acts as liaison between employees and management.

  • Manages administrative needs of railroad and transload operations.

  • Ensures compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), and City of Columbia safety rules and regulations.

  • Plans and administers budget and maintains departmental records and reports.

  • Performs duties necessary to run a railroad and transloading operation, including operating locomotives, transload equipment and maintaining equipment and infrastructure.

  • Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities
Work requires managing and monitoring work performance by directing multiple groups of employees across more than one business function, including making decisions on hiring, disciplinary actions, evaluating program/work objectives and effectiveness, conducting performance evaluations, and realigning work and staffing assignments, as needed.
Human Collaboration and Job Impact - This area describes the personal interaction with others outside direct reporting relationships as well as the impact the job has on organization, the department or unit objectives, the output of services, or employee or public satisfaction
  • Interactions may result in decisions regarding implementation of policies. Contact may involve support of controversial positions or the negotiation of sensitive issues or important presentations. Contacts may involve stressful, negative interactions with the public requiring high levels of tact and the ability to respond to aggressive interpersonal interactions.
  • Interactions have significant impact on the organization in terms of time, money, or public/employee relations.

Fiscal Responsibility
  • Position has moderate fiscal responsibility.

  • May be responsible for managing division budget, billing, accounting of funds and/or handling and balancing of cash.

Education and Experience - An equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered
Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

  • Certification program and less than 2 years of college.

  • 5 to 7 years' experience in federal railroad policies and procedures.

Licenses or Certifications
  • Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certification.

  • Certified Conductor.

  • Locomotive Engineer Certificate.

  • Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with no Air Brake restriction.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities which may be representative, but not all-inclusive of those commonly associated with this position
Knowledge of:
  • Railroad and transload operations.

  • General office practices and administrative procedures, records management and administration techniques and procedures.

  • Laws and regulations pertaining to Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), and City of Columbia safety standards.

  • Common business software applications such as Microsoft Office.

Skill in:
  • Interpreting complex regulations and applying them effectively.

  • Communicating verbally and in writing to meet the needs of the audience.

  • Applying active listening and asking questions for understanding.

  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

  • Monitoring and assessing the performance of employees or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Operating and conducting a railroad locomotive and train.

Ability to:
  • Manage a budget and work within the constraints of that budget.

  • Effectively plan and delegate the work of others and to train and/or supervise the work of others.

  • Handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure and maintain effective interpersonal relationships.

  • Recognize, analyze, and solve a variety of problems.

  • Provide high levels of effective customer service.

  • Organize and prioritize work.

  • Maintain detailed and accurate records.

  • Use a computer, software, phone and related office equipment.

  • Focus on tasks.

  • Work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.

Work Environment - Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job
Work Environment
  • Office or similar indoor environment - Frequently or Often

  • Outdoor environment - Frequently or Often

  • Street environment (near moving traffic) - Sometimes

  • Construction site - Sometimes

  • Vehicle - Frequently or Often

  • Warehouse environment - Frequently or Often

  • Shop environment - Frequently or Often

  • Right of way environment - Frequently or Often

Exposures
  • Individuals who are hostile or irate - Sometimes

  • Extreme cold (below 32 degrees) - Sometimes

  • Extreme heat (above 100 degrees) - Sometimes

  • Moving mechanical parts - Frequently or Often

  • Fumes or airborne particles - Frequently or Often

  • Loud noises (85+ decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers, construction) - Frequently or Often

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
  • This position has occasional exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions or hazards.

  • Incumbents may be required to exert up to 35 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects.

  • Incumbents must have clarity of vision and ability to identify and distinguish colors.

Hours/Days
Generally, Monday through Friday 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. Earlier or later hours are expected on occasion to meet customer needs.
Starting Salary
$66,144 minimum to $96,616 maximum; commensurate with training and experience; promotion is a 10% increase or minimum pay rate of job classification whichever is greater
Pay Grade
110
Number of Positions Available
1
Deadline to Apply
09/23/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
This position is being overfilled to allow for training from the current Railroad Operations Manager.
HOURS: Generally, Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Earlier or later hours are expected on occasion to meet customer needs.
Notice to Applicants
Individuals needing accommodation to apply may call 573.874.CITY (2489)
TTY: 711 (MO RELAY)
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA IS A MERIT, AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: MALE / FEMALE
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA REQUIRES PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING
The City of Columbia participates in the federal E-Verify work authorization program

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