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Switch Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eagle Railcar Management, LLC

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Switch Crew

Junction City, KS · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

Coordinate activities of switch-engine crew within yard of railroad, industrial plant, or similar location. Coordinate activities of workers engaged in railroad traffic operations, such as the makeup ...

Trinity Industries

Lead Welder

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

What you'll need: • 1 - 2 years of related experience. • Switch Crew/Track Mobile experience. • Hand wells in all positions groove and fillet. • Performs repairs to subassemblies for final ...

TrinityRail

Lead Welder

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Qualifications What you'll need: • 1 - 2 years of related experience. • Switch Crew/Track Mobile experience. • Hand wells in all positions groove and fillet. • Performs repairs to ...

Trinity Logistics Group

Lead Welder

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Switch Crew/Track Mobile experience. Hand wells in all positions groove and fillet. Performs repairs to subassemblies for final product. Performs oxy-fuel welding. Performs carbon arc welding.

Watco

Conductor - Monahans, TX

Monahans, TX · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

... crew or other yard workers via radio to give or receive switching information • Confers with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions concerning stops, delays, or ...

Watco

Conductor - Toledo, OH

Toledo, OH · On-site

$22.25 - $29/hr

... crew or other yard workers via radio to give or receive switching information • Confers with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions concerning stops, delays, or ...

Watco

Conductor - Cadillac, MI

Cadillac, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

... crew or other yard workers via radio to give or receive switching information • Confers with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions concerning stops, delays, or ...

Watco

Conductor - Hutchinson, KS

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$22/hr

... crew or other yard workers via radio to give or receive switching information • Confers with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions concerning stops, delays, or ...

Watco

Conductor - Dewey, OK

Dewey, OK · On-site

$22/hr

... crew or other yard workers via radio to give or receive switching information • Confers with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions concerning stops, delays, or ...

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Switch Crew information

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How much do switch crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for switch crew in the United States is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a switch crew?

Switch Crew are railroad workers responsible for assembling, disassembling, and routing train cars within a rail yard. They operate track switches, couple and uncouple train cars, and ensure that trains are correctly organized for departure. This role is critical for the safe and efficient movement of freight and passenger trains within rail yards and terminals. Switch Crew members typically work as part of a team under the direction of a yardmaster.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a switch crew member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Switch Crew member, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to safety protocols, and familiarity with railway operations, often supported by on-the-job training or prior experience in rail transport. Knowledge of railway signaling systems, radio communication devices, and basic hand tools is typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and quick decision-making are vital soft skills for this physically demanding and safety-critical role. These skills ensure efficient train movements, minimize operational risks, and maintain the safety of crew and passengers.

What are some common challenges faced by switch crew members during large-scale events or peak travel periods?

Switch Crew members often encounter increased pressure and demanding work hours during large-scale events or peak travel times, such as holidays or major sporting events. These periods require heightened attention to safety, efficient communication with train operators and other crew members, and quick, accurate responses to unexpected changes in schedules or track assignments. Adapting to rapidly changing conditions and managing physical tasks outdoors in all weather are key challenges that Switch Crew members must be prepared for. However, strong teamwork and thorough training help ensure operations run smoothly even during the busiest times.

What is the difference between Switch Crew vs Cable Installer?

AspectSwitch CrewCable Installer
Required CertificationsTypically none or basic electrical safety trainingOften requires electrical or cable installation certifications
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor, often in commercial or residential settingsIndoor and outdoor, focusing on cable and wiring setups
Industry UsageTelecommunications, utility companies, electrical contractorsCable TV, internet providers, telecommunications
Job FocusSwitching electrical circuits, installing or maintaining switchesInstalling and connecting cables for communication or power

Switch Crew members primarily focus on electrical switching tasks, while Cable Installers specialize in laying and connecting communication or power cables. Both roles often work in similar environments but have different certifications and job focuses, making them distinct yet related positions within the industry.

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What cities are hiring for Switch Crew jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Switch Crew jobs?

For Switch Crew jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Switch Crew jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switch Crew job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,575 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Switch Crew

Junction City, KS • On-site

Eagle Railcar Management, LLC
See more jobs at Eagle Railcar Management, LLCexternal

$27 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Helps Railroad Engineer coordinate activities of train. Coordinate activities of switch-engine crew within yard of railroad, industrial plant, or similar location. Coordinate activities of workers engaged in railroad traffic operations, such as the makeup or breakup of trains, yard switching, and review train schedules and switching orders. Interpret train orders, electronic or manual signals, and railroad rules and regulations.

Tasks:

  • Direct engineers move cars to fit planned train configurations, combining or separating cars to make up or break up trains.
  • Document and prepare reports of accidents, unscheduled stops, or delays.
  • Inspect each car periodically during runs.
  • Direct and instruct workers engaged in yard activities, such as switching tracks, coupling, and uncoupling cars, and routing inbound and outbound traffic.
  • Observe yard traffic to determine tracks available to accommodate inbound and outbound traffic.
  • Instruct workers to set warning signals in front and at rear of trains during emergency stops.
  • Inspect freight cars for compliance with sealing procedures, and record car numbers and seal numbers.
  • Inspection of couplings, air hoses, handbrakes, and mechanical equipment to ensure efficient and safe train operation.

Skills:

  • Ability to give full attention to what other people are saying, take time to understand the points being made, ask questions as appropriate, and do not interrupt at inappropriate times.
  • Able to stand for long periods of time with limited breaks.
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds and team lift up to 150 pounds.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and elements for an extended period of time.
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces.
  • Must be able to work at elevated heights.
  • Must be able to read and comprehend basic drawings and scope of work.
  • Must possess basic math skills, addition, subtraction.

Qualities:

  • Dependable
  • Teachable
  • Mechanically Inclined
  • Committed to Personal Excellence (Safety, Quality, Productivity)

Work Environment / Conditions and Physical Demands:

  • Candidate must be able to perform the following physical tasks:
  • Working around heavy moving equipment
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Work in high places and confined areas.
  • Climb, squat, bend, twist, and regularly lift up to 50 pounds or more to accomplish work tasks.

Experience and Education:

  • High School Diploma, GED, or High School Equivalence Certificate.
  • Previous Switching experience (preferred).
  • Lace-up, defined heel, steel toed boots (required).

Company Description

Eagle Railcar Services is a leading provider of railcar repair and maintenance solutions, serving customers across a nationwide network of facilities and field operations. With a strong commitment to safety, quality, and customer service, our teams work every day to ensure railcars move safely and efficiently across the country. We take pride in developing our people, delivering high-quality work, and supporting the essential industries that keep America moving