... 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 ...
... 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 ...
Conductor - Twin Falls, ID
Twin Falls, ID · On-site
$20.75 - $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 ...
Conductor - Twin Falls, ID
Twin Falls, ID · On-site
$20.75 - $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 ...
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
Student Conductors - Freeport, TX
Freeport, TX · On-site
$20/hr
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
New
Student Conductors - Freeport, TX
Freeport, TX · On-site
$20/hr
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
New
Switchman - Sauget / Cahokia, IL
Sauget, IL · On-site
$22/hr
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
Switchman - Sauget / Cahokia, IL
Sauget, IL · On-site
$22/hr
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
Conductor - Tioga, ND
Tioga, ND · On-site
$25/hr
Talks to 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 ...
Conductor - Tioga, ND
Tioga, ND · On-site
$25/hr
Talks to 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 ...
Switchman - Sheridan, WY
Sheridan, WY · On-site
$21/hr
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
Switchman - Sheridan, WY
Sheridan, WY · On-site
$21/hr
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
New
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
New
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
Talks to 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 ...
Talks to 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 ...
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
... 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 ...
New
... 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 ...
New
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
Talks to 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 ...
Talks to 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 ...
Switchman - Gillette, WY
Gillette, WY · On-site
$20/hr
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
Switchman - Gillette, WY
Gillette, WY · On-site
$20/hr
... with crew or other yard workers via radio to exchange switching information • Confer with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions regarding stops, delays, or ...
Switch Crew information
See salary details
$12.50 - $14.23
2% of jobs
$14.23 - $15.95
5% of jobs
$15.95 - $17.68
12% of jobs
$18.34 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$17.68 - $19.41
16% of jobs
The median wage is $20.88 / hr.
$19.41 - $21.13
18% of jobs
$21.13 - $22.86
17% of jobs
$23.61 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$22.86 - $24.58
13% of jobs
$24.58 - $26.31
7% of jobs
$26.31 - $28.04
6% of jobs
$28.04 - $29.76
3% of jobs
$29.76 - $31.49
1% of jobs
$12
$21
$31
How much do switch crew jobs pay per hour?
As of May 31, 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 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 are 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 is the difference between Switch Crew vs Cable Installer?
| Aspect | Switch Crew | Cable Installer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Certifications | Typically none or basic electrical safety training | Often requires electrical or cable installation certifications |
| Work Environment | Indoor and outdoor, often in commercial or residential settings | Indoor and outdoor, focusing on cable and wiring setups |
| Industry Usage | Telecommunications, utility companies, electrical contractors | Cable TV, internet providers, telecommunications |
| Job Focus | Switching electrical circuits, installing or maintaining switches | Installing 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.
More about Switch Crew jobs
What cities are hiring for Switch Crew jobs? Cities with the most Switch Crew job openings:
What job categories do people searching Switch Crew jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Switch Crew jobs are:
Watco rating
6.7
Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
234th of 336 rated logistics
Job description
Conductor/Engineer - Rupert, ID
Job Location: Rupert, ID Depot-Rupert-83350
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
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
The conductor/engineer position will control and coordinate the train movements while switching railcars whether in the yard of a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of railcars in a safe and efficient manner to service our customers. This position is a manual labor position which requires that the individual become proficient in the following skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance.
• Follow written and verbal directions to complete assigned tasks on schedule.
• Read, write, and communicate in English & understand basic math.
• Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes and apply procedures using good judgment.
• Reads switching orders from designated person.
• Supervises and coordinates the activities of train crews.
• Observes radio and hand signals in yard or in cab and operates locomotive in accordance with railroad rules and regulations.
• Observes arm or lantern signal and moves controls to move locomotive backwards or forwards to switch and couple cars; or receives starting signal and moves control; such as throttle and air brakes to operate locomotive.
• Reads and interprets wayside signals, track warrants and bulletins, and railroad rules and regulations to operate locomotive, following safety rules and regulations and time schedule.
• Receives oral or written instructions from Manager or Customer indicating which cars are to be switched.
• Notifies engineer of switching orders and, whereby, which cars are to be moved to specified locations of yard, using radio, telephone, verbal or hand signals.
• Talks to 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 oncoming trains.
• Gives instructions to throw track switches and to couple and uncouple cars.
• May assist workers to throw switches or perform other activities involved when performing switching operations.
• Turns hand brake wheel or ratchet type brake as well as apply and release handbrakes.
• Observes track to detect obstructions.
• Inspects locomotive after run to detect damaged or defective equipment.
• Maintains records, number, origin, destination, and cargo of cars switched.
• May coordinate activities of switching crew from locomotive cab, caboose, or control tower.
• Raises coupling lever to couple or uncouple cars.
• Throws track switches to facilitate shunting of cars and signals Engineer to move cars, using lantern, arm signals or radio.
• Connects air hose to cars when making up trains by bending and applying force.
• May set warning signals, such as flares, flags, lanterns, or torpedoes at front of and at rear of train during emergency stops to warn oncoming trains.
• Sits or rides in cab of locomotive to observe signals from other crew members.
• May make minor repairs to couplings, and air hoses and report any equipment requiring major repairs.
• May talk to Engineer via radio to give or receive switching information.
• Performs other duties as requested or required
Qualifications
Ability to pass training and required testing.
Education
High School or GED equivalent
Job Location: Rupert, ID Depot-Rupert-83350
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
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
The conductor/engineer position will control and coordinate the train movements while switching railcars whether in the yard of a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of railcars in a safe and efficient manner to service our customers. This position is a manual labor position which requires that the individual become proficient in the following skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance.
• Follow written and verbal directions to complete assigned tasks on schedule.
• Read, write, and communicate in English & understand basic math.
• Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes and apply procedures using good judgment.
• Reads switching orders from designated person.
• Supervises and coordinates the activities of train crews.
• Observes radio and hand signals in yard or in cab and operates locomotive in accordance with railroad rules and regulations.
• Observes arm or lantern signal and moves controls to move locomotive backwards or forwards to switch and couple cars; or receives starting signal and moves control; such as throttle and air brakes to operate locomotive.
• Reads and interprets wayside signals, track warrants and bulletins, and railroad rules and regulations to operate locomotive, following safety rules and regulations and time schedule.
• Receives oral or written instructions from Manager or Customer indicating which cars are to be switched.
• Notifies engineer of switching orders and, whereby, which cars are to be moved to specified locations of yard, using radio, telephone, verbal or hand signals.
• Talks to 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 oncoming trains.
• Gives instructions to throw track switches and to couple and uncouple cars.
• May assist workers to throw switches or perform other activities involved when performing switching operations.
• Turns hand brake wheel or ratchet type brake as well as apply and release handbrakes.
• Observes track to detect obstructions.
• Inspects locomotive after run to detect damaged or defective equipment.
• Maintains records, number, origin, destination, and cargo of cars switched.
• May coordinate activities of switching crew from locomotive cab, caboose, or control tower.
• Raises coupling lever to couple or uncouple cars.
• Throws track switches to facilitate shunting of cars and signals Engineer to move cars, using lantern, arm signals or radio.
• Connects air hose to cars when making up trains by bending and applying force.
• May set warning signals, such as flares, flags, lanterns, or torpedoes at front of and at rear of train during emergency stops to warn oncoming trains.
• Sits or rides in cab of locomotive to observe signals from other crew members.
• May make minor repairs to couplings, and air hoses and report any equipment requiring major repairs.
• May talk to Engineer via radio to give or receive switching information.
• Performs other duties as requested or required
Qualifications
Ability to pass training and required testing.
Education
High School or GED equivalent