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Switch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... and proper switch placement. * Follows all safety procedures and keeps the Shuttle wagon operator informed of potential safety hazards that may occur while spotting during rail car pushes.

Rail / Switch Operator This position is primarily responsible for the movement of SOP, Salt, and MgCL 2 products. Assist the Shuttle wagon Operator in the spotting, staging and preparation of rail ...

Rail Switch Operator -AM Shift: (Plant) 5am-;5:30pm, Day shift rotates on a 3-2-2 schedule Starting Pay : $25.25 per hour. AM Shift Weekend differential of $1.00/HR for Saturday and Sunday shifts ...

Rail Switch Operator -AM Shift: (Plant) 5am-;5:30pm, Day shift rotates on a 3-2-2 schedule Starting Pay : $25.25 per hour. AM Shift Weekend differential of $1.00/HR for Saturday and Sunday shifts ...

Rail Switch Operator -AM Shift: (Plant) 5am-5:30pm, Day shift rotates on a 3-2-2 schedule Starting Pay : $25.25 per hour. AM Shift Weekend differential of $1.00/HR for Saturday and Sunday shifts ...

Rail Switch Operator -AM Shift: (Plant) 5am-5:30pm, Day shift rotates on a 3-2-2 schedule Starting Pay : $25.25 per hour. AM Shift Weekend differential of $1.00/HR for Saturday and Sunday shifts ...

Switching Operator Job Category: Operations Full-Time On-site Texas Deer Park, TX 77536, USA Description * Comply with all internal, environmental, and safety policies, rules, and regulations.

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Switching Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$25 - $27.68/hr

Expected to complete the Switching Training Program to become ROC switching certified within (approximately) 12-16 months. Shift-oriented workforce. The knowledge, skills, abilities and experiences ...

divh2Switching Operator/h2pJob Category: Operations/ppFull-Time/ppOn-site/ppTexas Deer Park, TX ... switching operations throughout the terminal per ITC procedures and applicable regulations ...

SWITCH TRUCK OPERATOR (S)

Hillsboro, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE The Switch Truck Operator is responsible for safely moving, positioning, and staging trailers throughout the yard to support shipping and production operations. This role ensures ...

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Switch Operator information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do switch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for switch operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a Switch Operator might face during daily operations?

Switch Operators often work in fast-paced environments where attention to detail is critical. One common challenge is coordinating with multiple train movements while ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed. Handling unexpected changes in schedules or equipment issues requires quick thinking and effective communication with dispatchers, engineers, and yard crews. Additionally, working outdoors in various weather conditions and during irregular hours can add to the complexity of the role.

What are Switch Operators?

Switch Operators are professionals responsible for operating and controlling railroad track switches and signals to direct the movement of trains. They ensure trains are routed safely and efficiently through rail yards, onto different tracks, or along specified routes. Their duties may also include communicating with train crews, inspecting track switches for proper operation, and coordinating with dispatchers to prevent collisions or delays. Switch Operators play a critical role in maintaining the smooth and safe flow of rail traffic.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Switch Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Switch Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with signaling systems, communication radios, and control panels is typically required, along with safety certifications such as FRA regulations in rail settings. Excellent situational awareness, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you respond quickly to changing conditions and coordinate with others. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient movement of trains and prevent accidents in rail yards or on tracks.

What is the difference between Switch Operator vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectSwitch OperatorSignal Maintainer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, track switches, switching stationsRailway signals, control centers, trackside equipment
Industry UsageRailroad companies, transit agenciesRailroad companies, transit agencies
Common Search/ComparisonSwitch Operator vs Signal Maintainer

Switch Operators primarily focus on operating track switches to direct train movements, while Signal Maintainers are responsible for maintaining and repairing railway signals and related equipment. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient railway operations, often working closely in the same environments but with different technical focuses.

More about Switch Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Switch Operator jobs? Cities with the most Switch Operator job openings:
What states have the most Switch Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Switch Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Switch Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Rail / Switch Operator

Rail / Switch Operator

Compass Minerals

Ogden, UT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Compass Minerals rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 29 rated mining


Job description

Summary: This position is primarily responsible for the movement of SOP, Salt, and MgCL2 products. Assist the Shuttle wagon Operator in the spotting, staging and preparation of rail cars in line with daily shipping and/or unloading requirements. This is accomplished through the safe and efficient work habits and effective coordination with the shuttlewagon operator, weigh master and/or plant operator. Is also responsible for the inspection, cleaning, and general care of assigned areas including tracks, cars, and associated equipment. Position responsibilities vary considerably between Salt Plant operations and SOP Loadout operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: (Management reserves the right to add or modify the duties and responsibilities at any time.)
  • Equipment Inspection- Inspects rail cars for proper loading requirements (cleanliness) and discernible car integrity before loading and unloading processes begin.
  • Moving Rail Cars- Works in conjunction with the shuttlewagon operator in the inspection and readiness of coupling devices for proper alignment during coupling and decoupling process.

    • Prior to moving the car(s) removes chocks, connects air brake hoses, disengages hand brakes, and inspects track for obstacles and proper switch placement.
    • Follows all safety procedures and keeps the Shuttle wagon operator informed of potential safety hazards that may occur while spotting during rail car pushes.
    • Communicates the aforementioned and coupling and decoupling progress via radio to track mobile operator.

  • Placement of Rail Cars- Know clearance points, proper communication for "counting down" to a couple, and proper setting of hand brakes on cars prior to the uncoupling process.
  • Other Functions- Serves as the back-up for the Shuttle wagon Operator as required to cover vacation, absences and other relief issues.

    • Provides clean up on tracks.
    • Responds to problems or production needs under the silos and communicates resolutions via radio to the weigh master.

Deliverables:
  • Preparation and Inspection of rail cars as measured by inspection by either Supervisor, Weigh Master, or Brine Loader

    • Cars are cleaned not to exceed 30 minute maximum.
    • Void of contamination per pre-loading routine inspection
    • Free of defects as per pre-loading inspection and rail car functionality

  • No Violations of rail car safety as per routine inspection

    • No equipment damage to rail cars, shuttle wagon, and/or derails from debris or improperly set derailers.
    • No unsecured movements of rail cars
    • No injuries

  • No error in required track inquires as measured by Customer Service feedback, QSI, or Supervisor review

    • Car count correct.
    • Car numbers correspond with actual car string.
    • Report reflects car placement on proper track.
    • No additional charges from railroad due to inaccurate placement of railcar.
    • Inquiries completed and turned in no later than 0700.

Qualifications - External
Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to carry out each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required and should be considered the minimum standard. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience: Must have a high school diploma and previous experience or education demonstrating the ability to monitor equipment for proper operation and perform tasks related to maintaining product quality. Previous experience operating heavy equipment or working with rail equipment is a plus.
Computer Skills: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be PC literate and proficient with Excel, Word, Outlook, and Access to analyze and communicate information. Must be able to navigate an ERP to issue work requests and review inventory.
Competency:
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Interpersonal Skills - Ability to interact effectively with others and work effectively as a member of a team.
Written Communication - Concise, complete, and well organized written communications are essential
Planning/Organizing - Must be able to plan and organize a schedule that is conducive to position duties. Must have the ability to independently and effectively plan, organize, coordinate, and follow up on assignments. Must be able to remain on task in a disruptive setting. Must be able to organize in conjunction with multiple directions from Weigh Master or Plant Operator.
Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration, regardless of their status or position; Follows through on commitments.
Quality - Able to follow communicated/trained quality procedures. Able to recognize and resolve issues affecting product quality. Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.
Language Skills: The abilities listed are representative of the level of competency the incumbent needs in order to effectively perform the essential duties. These specific abilities are required for this particular position.
Ability to communicate clearly with coworkers to ensure Safety. Ability to read, analyze and interpret job-related information. Able to complete reports/logs accurately, in an understandable manner, and legibly.
Mathematical and Reasoning Ability and Skills: The ability to perform lower-level math functions. Ability to collect and accurately assemble data in a logical manner.
Essential Job Functions: 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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear. The employee is also required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Compass Minerals is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are firmly committed to making all employment-related decisions without regard to race, ancestry, ethnicity, color, religious creed or belief, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, and pregnancy and breastfeeding), age, military or veteran status, status as a qualified individual with a disability, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by law. To request reasonable accommodations, email careers@compassminerals.com or call 913-344-9200. Learn more about equal employment opportunity laws at dol.gov.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.