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Switch Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

SWITCH TRUCK OPERATOR (S)

Hillsboro, TX

$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 is where talented people come together to EVOLVE the digital world. We believe that ... Comfort working scheduled shifts in a 24/7 operating environment. Preferred * CompTIA A+, Network ...

Network Infrastructure Technician I

Houston, TX · On-site

$22.50 - $29/hr

Switch is where talented people come together to EVOLVE the digital world. We believe that ... Comfort working scheduled shifts in a 24/7 operating environment. Preferred * CompTIA A+, Network ...

Manager, FP&A

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

Switch is where talented people come together to EVOLVE the digital world. We believe that ... Maintain integrated forecasting across revenue, operating expenses, capital expenditures, headcount ...

Switch is where talented people come together to EVOLVE the digital world. We believe that ... Maintain integrated forecasting across revenue, operating expenses, capital expenditures, headcount ...

Supervise, train, and evaluate the performance of yard employees, including switch operators, brakemen, and conductors. * Schedule work shifts for rail yard employees to ensure adequate coverage and ...

Network Infrastructure Technician I

Houston, TX · On-site

$22.50 - $29/hr

Switch is where talented people come together to EVOLVE the digital world. We believe that ... Comfort working scheduled shifts in a 24/7 operating environment. Preferred * CompTIA A+, Network ...

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Switch Operator information

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 is the 3 month rule for jobs?

The 3 month rule for a switch operator typically refers to a probationary period of three months during which performance and reliability are evaluated before full employment benefits or permanent status are granted. This period allows employers to assess skills, safety compliance, and adaptability in the job environment, which often involves working with railway or transit switching equipment. Successful completion of this period may be required for job security and advancement.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Switch operators typically do not earn $4,000 a week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial truck driving, certain sales roles, or technical positions requiring on-the-job training. These roles may require specific licenses, certifications, or experience but not necessarily a college degree.

What is a switch operator job description?

A switch operator is responsible for controlling the movement of trains or railcars at switches and crossings, ensuring safe and efficient operation within rail yards or on tracks. They monitor signals, operate switches and levers, and communicate with train crews, often working in shifts and following safety protocols. Knowledge of railway operations and safety procedures is essential for this role.

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.

Did switchboard operators make good money?

Switchboard operators historically earned modest wages, often reflecting entry-level pay and the skill required for the role. Today, the profession is largely obsolete, and similar communication roles tend to have average salaries aligned with customer service or administrative positions. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and the specific employer.
What job categories do people searching Switch Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Switch Operator jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Switch Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Switch Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Switch Operator job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Switch Operator

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

VLS Environmental Solutions, LLC, is a recognized leader in providing sustainability solutions, with three divisions providing industry-leading services. With a mission to innovate solutions to meet clients' sustainability goals, VLS has over 1,200 employees in 40+ locations across North America.

Waste Services

VLS Waste Services provides customized waste processing solutions for hazardous and non-hazardous industrial and commercial waste, including landfill diversion and sustainability programs, solidification of liquid waste, recycling, wastewater treatment, and waste sequestration.

Railcar Services

VLS Railcar Cleaning and Repair Services division provides specialty cleaning services for difficult-to-clean products, including chemicals, hardened materials, and pressurized gases, and comprehensive repair services for certified full-service repairs, tank car qualifications, and maintenance.

Marine Services

VLS Marine Services division offers state-of-the-art barge cleaning, repair, and gas-free facilities for various chemical solvents and downstream petroleum products.

Switch operator is responsible for the safe movement of railcars within this facility. This role is essential to minimize personal injury and property damage. A switch operators performs daily switching operations for all departments in the shop and communicating well with all Department Supervisors, the Locomotive Operator and the other Switch Operators.

Job Duties:

- Receive and transmit information by radio and telephone.

- Read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists.

- Assist with maintaining documentation of rail car placement.

- Assist to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches.

- Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety.

- Operate locomotive equipment.

- Properly line switches for railcar movement.

- Operate railcar equipment such as air hoses and handbrakes.

- Comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems.

- Quickly and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions.

- Quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc).

- Ability to communicate clearly, listen and understand information through spoken words and sentences to ensure full comprehension of job duties, safety regulations, and other situations that may require an immediate response.

- Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

- High school diploma or equivalent preferred

- Ability to read and write in English

- 1 year experience in railcar switching is preferred

- Ability to define problems, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

- Able to use a two way radio