1

Switch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler II

Clatskanie, OR

$17 - $20.75/hr

Company-provided locomotive operator training, company-provided rail switch operator training, company-provided general rail safety training, company-provided TPIC training. * Currently possess or ...

Material Handler II

Clatskanie, OR · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Company-provided locomotive operator training, company-provided rail switch operator training, company-provided general rail safety training, company-provided TPIC training. * Currently possess or ...

Material Handler II

Clatskanie, OR

$17 - $20.75/hr

Company-provided locomotive operator training, company-provided rail switch operator training, company-provided general rail safety training, company-provided TPIC training. * Currently possess or ...

Performs such duties as; the safe switching of distribution lines and distribution substations, communication of switching/operating instructions, granting or releasing approved clearances in ...

Switch Crew

Evanston, WY

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

Operates switches and directs flow of cars in rail yard. * Maintains area in a neat and orderly ... Ability to understand and follow UTLX operating procedures and policies based on safety and field ...

The company provides a wide range of rail services including industrial switching, material ... ppLocomotive Operator with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car ...

System Operator

Sellersburg, IN · On-site

$70K - $78K/yr

This position coordinates switching and restoration activities, creates daily schedules for ... other operators to protect employees, the public, and system equipment. • Serve as the ...

Support development and execution of operating procedures for critical facility systems * Validate engineering designs against Switch standards and industry practices * Partner with Operations ...

Experience operating basic warehouse equipment such as pallet jacks or forklifts. We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every preferred qualification. Why Switch? * A Culture of Karma ...

Experience operating basic warehouse equipment such as pallet jacks or forklifts. We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every preferred qualification. Why Switch? * A Culture of Karma ...

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 ...

Network Infrastructure Technician I

Las Vegas, NV · 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 ...

Support development and execution of operating procedures for critical facility systems * Validate engineering designs against Switch standards and industry practices * Partner with Operations ...

Network Infrastructure Technician I

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23.50 - $30.25/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Switch Operator information

See salary details

$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.
Material Handler II

$17 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Job description


Job Summary:

The Material Handler II position is responsible for the safe operation of the onsite rail equipment and/or the Terminal Person-In-Charge (TPIC) duties. In addition, the position is responsible for day-to-day loading and unloading of all co-products and raw materials by operating the necessary equipment in order to meet the goals, policies and objectives of the Company and maintain a safe, environmentally conscientious and efficient quality work environment.

At Global Partners, business starts with people. Since 1933, we've believed in taking care of our customers, our guests, our communities, and each other-and that belief continues to guide us.

TheGlobal Spiritis how we work to fuel that long term commitment to success. As a Fortune 500 company with 90+ years of experience, we're proud to fuel communities-responsibly and sustainably. We show up every day with grit, passion, and purpose-anticipating needs, building lasting relationships, and creating shared value.

Job Description:

Job Responsibilities

  • Safe, efficient operation of the Company rail mover equipment, rail switches, and oversight of Dock loading operations.
  • Maintain a Clean Facility, Main Process Building, and Administration Building.
  • Restock all supplies.
  • Completion of all required paperwork and monitoring protocols.
  • Complete all daily, weekly, monthly operational reports accurately.
  • Timely sampling, loading and unloading of bulk liquid commodities and other co-products by railcar, truck and/or barge.
  • Unload grain cars and inspect incoming grain.
  • Stock inventory in designated areas.
  • Assist Process Operators, Maintenance Technicians and/or Laborers as needed.
  • Proper completion of all records related to plant shipments.
  • Perform highly diversified duties to operate facility material handling and transfer equipment and machinery.
  • Monitor loading/unloading operations, operate machinery and monitor computer systems.
  • Monitor equipment and production operations from the control room and monitor DCS computer systems.
  • Monitor safety and site security cameras from control room.
  • Maintain logs books and complete all required shift rounds completely.
  • Responsible for quality control, monitoring system parameters and making adjustments as necessary to maintain safe and efficient material handling operations within quality specifications.
  • Advise shift supervision/ Ops Manager/ Terminal Manager about safety, environmental, quality, maintenance and production issues.
  • Follow all required programs/policies including the LOTOTO procedures.
  • Take samples, perform analyses and take measurements to determine co-product quality.
  • Field operation of equipment throughout the facility.
  • Operate forklift and other mobile equipment to maintain raw material supply and support continuous flow of finished product.
  • Maintain work areas and housekeeping.
  • Maintain regular contact with other departments to obtain and convey information.
  • Complete special projects and miscellaneous assignments as needed.
  • Provide emergency and unscheduled repairs during production operations.
  • Troubleshoot, diagnose problems, perform Root Cause Analysis, repair and replace parts, test and make adjustments to ensure equipment operation, function and plant production.
  • Complete daily operator logs.
  • Perform preventive and predictive maintenance as scheduled.
  • Inform appropriate management of potential operational and/or equipment problems.
  • Maintain all Safety, Environmental and Quality standards as it pertains to your job.
  • Assist in the developing, following and enforcing plant safety policies and procedures.
  • Handoff communications with oncoming/off-going shifts.
  • Participate in 5-S, TPM and Six-Sigma programs.
  • Complete any and all tasks assigned by Plant Management and Ops Manager.
  • Participate in ongoing safety programs, safety training and following all safety procedures.
  • Promote EHS&S awareness in the plant and monitor for EHS&S compliance.
  • Promote compliance with all safety and environmental policies and/or standards.
  • Able and willing to work rotating shifts.
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions: extreme wind, rain, cold, etc.
  • Comfortable with the physical aspects of the job including opening and closing railcars valves, climb railcars (heights), crawl under railcars, walk long distances on uneven terrain, maneuver heavy hoses in awkward/cramped spaces, etc.
  • Must be able to attend and pass all test associated with job related coursework. This includes, but not limited to, OSHA, HazMat and FRA.
  • Other tasks as assigned.

Additional Job Description:

Qualifications

  • Have passed the following: Company-provided locomotive operator training, company-provided rail switch operator training, company-provided general rail safety training, company-provided TPIC training.
  • Currently possess or have the ability to obtain a TPIC 8-hour certificate.
  • Currently possess or have the ability to obtain a TSA Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card.
  • Material handling; forklift, rail mover and heavy equipment preferred.
  • Mechanically inclined, problem-solving abilities, good reading, writing, communication and mathematics capabilities.
  • Hard working, self-motivated individuals.
  • Manage confined space entry, climb ladders and steps, lift up to 60 lbs. and work at heights.
  • Ability to concentrate and manage multiple, ongoing assignments simultaneously.
  • Ability to function as a team player in a fast-paced operating plant.
  • Detail-oriented; proficiency for accuracy; dependable; positive attitude.
  • Ability to multi-task and take ownership of assigned projects.
  • Work productively under time constraints.
  • Easy to communicate and work with others.
  • Exhibits a sense of urgency when necessary.
  • Good planning and organizational skills.
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Ability to be on call and/or work rotating shifts as required.
  • High school diploma or GED is required.

Pay Range:

$22.07 - $30.82

The pay range for this position is outlined above. The final amount offered at the start of employment is determined based on factors including, but not limited to, experience level, knowledge, skills, abilities and geographic location, and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance and market factors.

Our Commitments to You

  • Coins!We offer competitive salaries and opportunities for growth. We have an amazing Talent Development Team who create trainings for growth and job development.

  • Health & Wellness- Medical, Dental, Visions and Life Insurance. Along with additional wellness support.

  • The Road Ahead- We offer 401k and a match component!

  • Professional Development- We provide tuition reimbursement; this benefit is offered after 6 months of service.

What to Expect From the Hiring Process

We value passion and potential. Please apply if you're qualified and interested-we'd love to hear from you.

A member of our Talent Acquisition team will review your application and may connect you with the hiring manager if your experience is a strong match.

Interviews are conducted virtually and in person, depending on the role. We'll provide more details about next steps if selected to move forward.

Global Partners LP is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a company culture where ideas from all people help us grow, move and thrive. We embrace the diversity of all applicants and do not discriminate against race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. If you have a disability and need an accommodation to apply, please contact our recruiting department at 781-747-9675 or 781-7GP-WORK.

*Disclaimer: At Global Partners, we don't use lie detector tests for any employment decisions. We follow all the rules and regulations, so we need to let you know: In Massachusetts, it's illegal to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment of continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.