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Short Line Railroad Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Watco

Dispatcher - Wichita, KS

Wichita, KS

$23.40/hr

Five 8-hour shifts per week (may not be consecutive),24/7, 365 days Responsible for coordinating and directing train movements across the short line railroad network to ensure safe, efficient, and ...

Watco

Dispatcher - Wichita, KS

Wichita, KS · On-site

$23.40/hr

Five 8-hour shifts per week (may not be consecutive),24/7, 365 days Responsible for coordinating and directing train movements across the short line railroad network to ensure safe, efficient, and ...

Wilson & Company

Rail Project Manager

Salina, KS · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Serve as the primary point of contact for Class I railroads, short line railroads, industrial rail clients, transit agencies, public agencies, municipalities, subconsultants, and internal project ...

Wilson & Company

Rail Project Manager

Wichita, KS

$130K - $175K/yr

Serve as the primary point of contact for Class I railroads, short line railroads, industrial rail clients, transit agencies, public agencies, municipalities, subconsultants, and internal project ...

Watco

Conductor - Winfield, KS

Winfield, KS · On-site

$22/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Watco

Conductor - Wichita, KS

Wichita, KS · On-site

$22/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Watco

Conductor - Wichita, KS

Wichita, KS · On-site

$22/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Watco

Conductor - Hutchinson, KS

Hutchinson, KS

$22/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

New

Watco

Conductor - Winfield, KS

Winfield, KS · On-site

$22/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Watco

Diesel Mechanic - Wichita, KS

Wichita, KS

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... of railroad rolling stock • Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report • Basic ...

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Short Line Railroad information

See Kansas salary details

$9

$17

$39

How much do short line railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for short line railroad in Kansas is $17.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.30 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.

More about Short Line Railroad jobs

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

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Short Line Railroad jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Short Line Railroad jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Short Line Railroad jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Short Line Railroad job openings:

Short Line Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Short Line Railroad job openings in Kansas 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 $36,625 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Dispatcher - Wichita, KS

Watco

Wichita, KS

$23.40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Watco rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

Hourly Pay: $23.40/hour
Training Period: 6 months of training before working independently
Ground School (Training): 3 weeks in Birmingham, AL
Shifts: Five 8-hour shifts per week (may not be consecutive),24/7, 365 days  

Responsible for coordinating and directing train movements across the short line railroad network to ensure safe, efficient, and timely operations. Acts as the central communication point between train crews, maintenance of way teams, and management. This job description is general and illustrative of the type of duties required for this position.  This description is not all inclusive and is not meant to be a detailed description of each duty performed by the incumbent of the position.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Issue train orders, track warrants, and movement authorities in compliance with company and FRA regulations 
• Coordinate with train crews, maintenance-of-way personnel, and other departments to ensure safe operations 
• Monitor train movements and conditions (e.g., weather, crew availability, equipment status, track conditions, speed restrictions) and take necessary actions to maintain safety and performance 
• Track train delays, prioritize high-priority trains, and manage the movement and protection of special loads (high/wide loads, etc.) 
• Communicate via telephone or radio with train crews, yard supervisors, and other personnel regarding movements, orders, and instructions, work with law enforcement in emergencies 
• Report railroad crossing malfunctions, ensuring proper notifications and protection; maintain Federal records for legal compliance 
• Maintain accurate logs of train movements, communications, and operational events 
• Ensure professional, accurate, and efficient communication, recorded for safety, accountability, and customer service 

Qualifications

• Prior dispatch experience preferred
• Ensure high performance and professional development  •Successfully complete the Watco Companies, Inc. General Code of Operating Rules course and examination
•Successfully complete the Watco Companies, Inc.
• Rules Governing Train Dispatchers course and examination •Complete the Examination for the United States Hazardous Materials Instruction for Rail 

Education
Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent

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