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Short Line Railroad Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Cando Rail and Terminals Inc

Conductor

Escanaba, MI

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We provide a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, and more. With over 50 operations, we are the 3 ...

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Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Conductor

Escanaba, MI · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We provide a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, and more. With over 50 operations, we are the 3 ...

Watco

Conductor - Cadillac, MI

Cadillac, MI

$19.50 - $25.75/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 - Cadillac, MI

Cadillac, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/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

Trainmaster - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... railroad cars within rail yard, industrial plant, or similar locations. Facilitate loading and ...

Watco Corp

Trainmaster - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... railroad cars within rail yard, industrial plant, or similar locations. Facilitate loading and ...

Watco

Trainmaster - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... railroad cars within rail yard, industrial plant, or similar locations. Facilitate loading and ...

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Track Foreman

Escanaba, MI · On-site

We provide a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, and more. With over 50 operations, we are the 3 ...

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Short Line Railroad information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$17

$38

How much do short line railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for short line railroad in Michigan is $17.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $15.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
More about Short Line Railroad jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short Line Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Short Line Railroad job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,793 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services

Detroit, MI

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Railroad Flagging
Location: Detroit, MI
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Compensation: $25 - $37 based on experience

Job Description:

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is hiring a Railroad Flagger. This role keeps workers safe on train tracks by controlling train movements and following federal safety rules. The job supports major railroads, smaller rail lines, transit systems, state transportation projects, and contractors.

Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Class 1 Railroad, Regional Short Line, Transit System, State DOT Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Railroad Contractor, and/or Railroad Consultant; preferably within the Maintenance Of Way (MOW) Department.

Job Requirements:

  • Skilled with basic computer tools, including Citrix, email, phone, and texting apps
  • Comfortable using Android tablets and smartphones
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • Good verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety
  • Able to build and maintain strong client relationships
  • Willing to travel for long periods (even months at a time)
  • Able to complete required federal, client, and company training

Job Duties:

  • Coordinate activities at the job site
  • Communicate clearly with dispatchers, train crews, railroad staff, and contractors
  • Lead safety briefings before work begins
  • Follow and enforce all railroad, state, and federal rules
  • Ensure contractors meet training requirements
  • Spot and address any rule violations
  • Complete daily reports on work activities
  • Maintain on-track safety following federal regulations

Work Environment:

  • This job operates in a field environment.
  • Must communicate clearly in English (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Must be willing to travel or drive long distances
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and walk on uneven ground
  • Must have good vision (near, far, color, and peripheral)
  • Must handle extreme weather (hot and cold)
  • Must work in dusty and noisy environments
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Short-Term, Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Keywords: Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Foreman, Foremen, Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.

Company Profile: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project.

Safety Commitment: All employees at NRSS must always prioritize safety. No job is so urgent that it can't be done safely. Safety is a core value, ensuring the protection of workers, customers, and communities while maintaining leadership in railroad safety.

Closing Statement: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Any candidate selected for this position must be able to successfully pass pre-employment/recurrent background checks, drug/alcohol testing, and classroom training.


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