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Short Line Railroad Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

OL&B Railway

General Application

Lincoln, NE · On-site

OL&B Railway, a NEBCO Company, is a short line railway, specializing in transloading, railcar repair, railcar storage, and track repair. It is also known as the "Big Red Line". OL&B Railway is a ...

OL&B Railway

General Application

Lincoln, NE · On-site

OL&B Railway, a NEBCO Company, is a short line railway, specializing in transloading, railcar repair, railcar storage, and track repair. It is also known as the "Big Red Line". OL&B Railway is a ...

OL&B Railway

Switching / Transload Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

Company Background OL&B Railway, a NEBCO Company, is a short line railway, specializing in transloading, railcar repair, railcar storage, and track repair. It is also known as the "Big Red Line". OL ...

OL&B Railway

Switching / Transload Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

Company Background OL&B Railway, a NEBCO Company, is a short line railway, specializing in transloading, railcar repair, railcar storage, and track repair. It is also known as the "Big Red Line". OL ...

OL&B Railway

Welder / Railcar Repair

Lincoln, NE · On-site

Company Background OL&B Railway, a NEBCO Company, is a short line railway, specializing in transloading, railcar repair, railcar storage, and track repair. It is also known as the "Big Red Line". OL ...

OL&B Railway

Welder / Railcar Repair

Lincoln, NE · On-site

Company Background OL&B Railway, a NEBCO Company, is a short line railway, specializing in transloading, railcar repair, railcar storage, and track repair. It is also known as the "Big Red Line". OL ...

Wilson & Company

Civil Project Manager

Omaha, NE · 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 ...

NEBCO

Concrete Truck Driver

Lincoln, NE · On-site

NEBCO's business interests also include road construction, traffic control, mining, real estate, construction surety bonding, a short line railroad, and two of Nebraska's popular recreational ...

HDR

Railroad Project Manager

Omaha, NE · On-site

... short line railroads, industrial clients, and agencies. * Develop client relationships to identify project opportunities. * Effectively communicate between client and project team * Participate in ...

NEBCO, Inc.

Concrete Truck Driver

Lincoln, NE · On-site

NEBCO's business interests also include road construction, traffic control, mining, real estate, construction surety bonding, a short line railroad, and two of Nebraska's popular recreational ...

HDR

Railroad Project Manager

Omaha, NE · On-site

... short line railroads, industrial clients, and agencies. * Develop client relationships to identify project opportunities. * Effectively communicate between client and project team * Participate in ...

Plains Pozzolanic

Concrete Truck Driver

Lincoln, NE · On-site

NEBCO's business interests also include road construction, traffic control, mining, real estate, construction surety bonding, a short line railroad, and two of Nebraska's popular recreational ...

NEBCO, Inc.

QA/QC Construction Inspector

Lincoln, NE

The company owns a short line railroad, as well as Quarry Oaks Golf Club and the Lincoln Saltdogs baseball team. NEBCO has grown to become one of Nebraska's most diversified and successful privately ...

NEBCO, Inc.

Mechanic

Lincoln, NE · On-site

NEBCO's business interests also include road construction, traffic control, mining, real estate, construction surety bonding, a short line railroad, and two of Nebraska's popular recreational ...

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Short Line Railroad information

See Nebraska salary details

$9

$18

$42

How much do short line railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for short line railroad in Nebraska is $18.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.40 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 popular job titles related to Short Line Railroad jobs in Nebraska?

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

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

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

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

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

Short Line Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Short Line Railroad job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,155 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

General Application

OL&B Railway

Lincoln, NE • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

OL&B Railway, a NEBCO Company, is a short line railway, specializing in transloading, railcar repair, railcar storage, and track repair. It is also known as the "Big Red Line".  OL&B Railway is a Class III switching railroad that interchanges cars from the Union Pacific and BNSF. For more information, visit www.olbrailway.com.

NEBCO, Inc.
NEBCO's story has been one of longevity, diversity and continued growth. NEBCO is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated business, with more than 1,100 employees spanning 50 locations across Nebraska.  Since 1908 NEBCO has grown to become one of Nebraska's most diversified and successful privately-owned businesses.  For more information about NEBCO, visit www.nebcoinc.com.

Job Summary 
OL&B Railway is looking for a high performing, results-oriented Individuals to join our team. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, hard worker, and reliable. OL&B Railway has endless opportunities for advancement and growth. 

Benefits Include

  • Retirement Plans
  • PAID Holidays
  • Insurance Benefits
  • Wellness Program - with the opportunity to earn five additional days off
  • PAID Time Off
  • On the Job Training

Condition of Employment
Candidate is required to meet the above qualifications. Approval of pre-employment reference, background checks and post offer substance testing are required as conditions of employment.

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