1

Short Line Railroad Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-23

Short Line Railroad information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$18

$41

How much do short line railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for short line railroad in Iowa is $18.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a short line railroad?

A Short Line Railroad is a small or regional railroad company that operates over a relatively short distance compared to major national railroads. These railroads typically connect rural areas, industries, or smaller communities to the larger national rail network, often serving as a crucial link for freight transportation. Short Line Railroads can be independently owned or operate as subsidiaries of larger rail companies. They play an essential role in supporting local economies and providing customized rail services that larger railroads may not offer.

What are short line railroad jobs?

Short line railroad jobs involve train operations and maintenance in a rail yard or on the tracks. Your duties and responsibilities vary depending on the details of your post. Railroad crew members perform maintenance, inspect rails, test crossing signals, and operate switches along the line. Roadmasters oversee operations on the track, while yardmasters manage railroad yards. Yard laborers, or carmen, maintain, paint, and clean rail cars. Train engineers control the train when it is traveling. Short-line railroads also have conductors whose responsibilities include overseeing cargo and passengers during the journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a short line railroad operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Short Line Railroad Operator, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety protocols, and mechanical systems, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with track-switching systems, locomotive controls, and compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help operators ensure safe and efficient rail service. These competencies are vital for maintaining operational safety, minimizing delays, and supporting reliable transportation for freight or passengers.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working on a short line railroad, and how can they prepare for them?

Employees on a Short Line Railroad often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, adapting to varying weather conditions, and maintaining safety standards on smaller teams with fewer resources. Unlike larger railroads, short lines usually require staff to be versatile, performing multiple roles such as operating trains, performing track maintenance, and handling administrative tasks. Preparing for these challenges involves developing strong communication skills, staying up to date with safety regulations, and being proactive in problem-solving. Many short line railroads also offer on-the-job training and encourage collaboration, making it a supportive environment for those willing to learn and adapt.

What is the difference between Short Line Railroad vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectShort Line RailroadRailroad Conductor
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, safety training, conductor certification often required
Work EnvironmentRural or regional rail lines, on-site at rail yards and tracksOn trains, at rail yards, and in stations
Industry UsageOperates regional or local freight linesManages train operations, safety, and crew coordination

Short Line Railroad and Railroad Conductor roles both operate within the rail industry, often requiring similar certifications and safety training. While short line railroads focus on regional freight services, conductors are responsible for managing train operations and crew on various rail lines. The roles are interconnected but differ in daily responsibilities and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Short Line Railroad jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Short Line Railroad jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Short Line Railroad jobs in Iowa?

For Short Line Railroad jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Short Line Railroad job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,572 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Civil Construction Engineer

Croell, Inc.

New Hampton, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee, design, and manage complex civil infrastructure projects from conception through completion.

  • Review and approve plans, calculations, specifications, and ensure compliance with codes and regulations.

  • Develop and enforce construction quality assurance and quality control programs.


Croell rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

IntroductionJoin the dynamic team at Croell, Inc. and embark on a rewarding career path. We're always looking for talented individuals who are passionate about concrete and the construction industry and committed to excellence. Explore this current opening below and discover opportunities to grow professionally in a supportive environment that values innovation and teamwork.

Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Civil Construction Engineer with a valid Professional Engineer (PE) license to oversee, design, and manage complex civil infrastructure projects from conception through completion. In this role, you will bridge the gap between engineering design and on-site construction execution. You will hold ultimate responsibility for ensuring structural integrity, regulatory compliance, safety, and project quality assurance.

This position is full-time, reports to the Territory Manager, and has supervisory responsibility for overseeing Quality Control throughout the company. This position requires active, purpose-driven travel across our 11-state footprint. Rather than a set seasonal schedule, travel is dictated by operational needs. You will need to be on-site to oversee the kickoff of major projects, conduct inspections if material or quality issues arise at our production facilities, and attend key regional and winter planning meetings.

For more information regarding this position, contact Jeramy Croell @ 641-229-6249.

 

Benefits/Incentives:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program
  • Company-Paid Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability
  • Paid Time Off, Holiday, and Bereavement Pay
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • $1500 Sign-On Bonus
  • Annual Safety Incentive and Clothing Allowance

Responsibilities

Engineering Design, Review

  • Review, approve, plans, calculations, specifications and ensuring absolute compliance with local, state, and federal codes.
  • Evaluate and approve contractor submittals, shop drawings, and Engineering proposals.

Project Management & Execution

  • Provide technical leadership and oversight on any major construction site, ensuring projects are built according to approved plans and specifications.
  • Serve as the primary technical point of contact for managers, subcontractors, customers and regulatory agencies.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

  • Develop and enforce construction quality assurance and quality control programs.
  • Lead technical investigations and resolve complex engineering challenges or unforeseen site conditions.

Other Responsibilities

  • Manage the Quality Control Department’s operations and personnel, including Quality Control Managers, and Technicians.
  • Communicate with upper management on Quality Control related items (issues, trends, projects).
  • Assist in the bidding process, including reading specifications, plans, addendums, etc.
  • Coordinate and maintain personnel certifications.
  • Develop, implement, manage, and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS), including quality control policies, procedures, and employee training.
  • Oversee and assist in designing, implementing, and standardizing designs and product codes.
  • Monitor product quality through audits, testing programs, recordkeeping, and calibration oversight for all product facilities.
  • Oversee the high-profile project list and assist in staffing these projects.
  • Review and maintain concrete mix designs, strength history, and project specific mix submittals.
  • Become fluent in QC software and ensure it is uniformly utilized.
  • Work with sales team to ensure submittal and quotes are in line.
  • Learn materials and state specification across 11 states.

Requirements

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Civil Engineering or Accredited Construction Engineering from an ABET.
  • Active Professional Engineer (PE) license (with the ability to obtain reciprocity in the project's state if necessary).
  • 7–10+ years of experience in civil construction engineering, heavy civil infrastructure, or construction management.
  • Proven ability to mentor junior engineers and field techs, manage large field teams, and handle high-stakes decision-making.
  • State DOT Certifications, ACI certifications, OSHA Training.
  • Working knowledge of Federal Agency Specifications (FAA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Railroad, DOT, etc.).


Physical Requirements

  • Ability to reach below/at/above shoulders.
  • Pushing/Pulling/Twisting/Bending.
  • Sitting/Standing/Balancing.
  • Operate hand and foot controls.
  • Simple/Firm grasping/Pinching.
  • Ability to lift/lower/carry over 50 pounds.
  • Squatting/Stooping/Crouching/Kneeling/Crawling.


What Croell employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom