ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Short Line Railroad Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsShort Line Railroad JobsShort Line Railroad Jobs in Minnesota

Short Line Railroad information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$19

$43

How much do short line railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for short line railroad in Minnesota is $19.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $17.88 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short Line Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Short Line Railroad job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 82% In-person, and 18% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $40,221 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC)

National Railroad Safety Services

Minneapolis, MN

$21 - $28.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC)
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Job Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
FLSA Status: Hourly; Non-Exempt
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Supervisory Responsibility: No
Compensation: Negotiable, based on skills and experience.

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 of these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project. Find the safety you have been missing today!
Job Description:
National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is seeking a Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC) to support railroad flagging services for Class 1 Railroads, Regional Short Lines, Transit Systems, State DOT's, as well as Railroad Suppliers, Contractors, and Consultants alike.
Required Education:
High School Diploma or Equivalent.

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.

Key Success Factors:

  • Accountability: Accept full responsibility for self and contribution as a team member.
  • Adaptability & Flexibility: Ability to consider a variety of issues that exist in the work place and change from one task to another as necessary.
  • Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze and synthesize information to understand issues, identify options, and support sound decision making.
  • Attention to Detail: Ability to work in a conscientious, consistent, thorough manner, and attend to details while pursuing quality when accomplishing tasks.
  • Communication: Ability to clearly convey information and ideas through a variety of media to employees/clients in a clear and succinct manner.
  • Customer Service Focus: Ability to provide service excellence to internal and/or external clients.
  • Decision Making: Ability to identify/understand issues, problems, opportunities and take appropriate action based on available facts, constraints, and probable consequences.
  • Initiative: Ability to identify what needs to be done and take action before being asked.
  • Innovativeness: Ability to devise new plans for quality excellence.
  • Knowledge: Ability to navigate various rulebooks and/or regulations and demonstrate mastery.
  • Organization: Ability to maintain materials and/or records in a clean and ordered manner.
  • Planning: Ability to plan and prioritize work load to manage time effectively and accomplish assigned tasks.
  • Stress Tolerance: Ability to maintain stable performance under pressure or opposition (such as time pressure or job ambiguity).
  • Teamwork: Promote cooperation and commitment within a team environment to achieve goals and deliverables.
  • Thoroughness: Ability to ensure that one's work is complete and accurate.

Job Requirements:

  • Proficient computer skills in basic email, phone, and text message applications.
  • Proficient computer skills in Android OS; on tablet & smart phone.
  • Proficient computer skills in Citrix Applications.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong technical knowledge in Railroad Engineering, Railroad Design, Railroad Construction, and Safety.
  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail; well organized.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain strong client relationships.
  • Ability to travel for extended periods of time; sometimes month(s) at a time.
  • Ability to successfully complete Federal, Client, and/or Company Specific Training.

Job Duties:

  • Provide jobsite coordination.
  • Provide clear and concise communication with Dispatchers, Train Crews, other Railroad Personnel, and/or Contractor personnel.
  • Provide clear, concise, and thorough job briefings with all personnel on each job site.
  • Enforce all Railroad, State, and Federal Policies.
  • Identify rule violations and resolve in accordance with Railroad, State, and Federal Policies.
  • Enforce Contractor training requirements.
  • Submit daily field reports detailing Contractor and/or Railroad activities.
  • Provide On-Track Safety in accordance with 49 CFR 214 Federal Regulations for Class 1 Railroads, Regional Short Lines, Transit Systems, State DOT Rail Divisions, Railroad Suppliers, Railroad Contractors, and/or Railroad Consultants.

Work Environment:
This job operates in a field environment.

Physical Demands:
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.

  • Must be able to hear, speak, read, and write clearly in English.
  • Must be able to drive long distances and/or travel by other modes as necessary.
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time and/or walk on level/uneven ground.
  • Must be able to see up close, distances, colors and have use of peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Must be able to tolerate extreme heat/cold temperatures.
  • Must be able to tolerate dusty/noisy conditions.
  • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Benefits:

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

Keywords:
Assistant Division Engineer (ADE), Assistant General Manager (AGM), Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Flagmen, Flagperson, Foreman, Foremen, General Manager (GM), 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.
Safety Commitment:
All employees of all levels are to remain committed to safety at all times while employed at National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS). As such, no job is so important and no service is so urgent that we may not take time to perform all work safely. Simply put, safety is our way of life. By placing safety first, we not only ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities, but we hold true our commitment to being the leader in safety throughout the Railroad Industry.
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.

Apply