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Switcher Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Federal Express Corporation

PH - Switcher FT

Sparks, NV · On-site

$24.50 - $25/hr

No experience required; six (6) months of experience as a package handler or switching/CDL operator experience preferred. Knowledge Skills and Abilities * Must have a valid driver's license and ...

Federal Express Corporation

PH - Switcher PT

Concord, NC · On-site

$21/hr

No experience required; six (6) months of experience as a package handler or switching/CDL operator experience preferred. Knowledge Skills and Abilities * Must have a valid driver's license and ...

Federal Express Corporation

PH - Switcher FT

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $25.75/hr

No experience required; six (6) months of experience as a package handler or switching/CDL operator experience preferred. Knowledge Skills and Abilities * Must have a valid driver's license and ...

Federal Express Corporation

PH - Switcher FT

Mahtomedi, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $25.75/hr

No experience required; six (6) months of experience as a package handler or switching/CDL operator experience preferred. Knowledge Skills and Abilities * Must have a valid driver's license and ...

Federal Express Corporation

PH - Switcher FT

Fargo, ND · On-site

No experience required; six (6) months of experience as a package handler or switching/CDL operator experience preferred. Knowledge Skills and Abilities * Must have a valid driver's license and ...

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How much do switcher operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for switcher operator in the United States is $23.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Switcher Operator, you need a solid understanding of rail yard operations, safety procedures, and locomotive handling, usually backed by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with radio communication systems, switching controls, and computerized tracking software is typically required. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient railcar movement and minimizing operational risks in high-stakes environments.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Switcher Operator during a standard shift?

A Switcher Operator is primarily responsible for moving trailers and containers within a yard or facility, ensuring that loading and unloading schedules are met efficiently. Daily tasks often include inspecting equipment for safety, coordinating with warehouse and dock personnel, and maintaining accurate logs of trailer locations. The role requires strong communication skills and the ability to adapt to changing priorities throughout the shift. Collaboration with dispatchers and truck drivers is essential to keep operations running smoothly.

What are Switcher Operators?

Switcher Operators, also known as yard switchers or locomotive operators, are responsible for moving rail cars within a rail yard, industrial plant, or similar facility. Their main duties include assembling trains, moving cars for loading and unloading, and ensuring rail cars are correctly positioned for transport. Switcher Operators play a critical role in maintaining efficient rail operations and must follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents. They often work closely with conductors, engineers, and other rail personnel to coordinate train movements. This job requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

What is the difference between Switcher Operator vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectSwitcher OperatorSignal Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, switching areasRailway tracks, signal systems
Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight yardsRailroad companies, transit agencies
Job FocusOperating switches to route trainsMaintaining and repairing signals

While both roles are essential in railway operations, the Switcher Operator primarily focuses on operating switches to direct train movements within yards, whereas the Signal Maintainer specializes in maintaining and repairing signal systems to ensure safe train operations. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the railway industry.

What states have the most Switcher Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Switcher Operator jobs include:
Switcher Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switcher Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Contract, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $47,942 per year, or $23 per hour.

PH - Switcher PT

Federal Express Corporation

Belleville, MI

$21.35/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Responsible for the movement of trailers to and from the unload / load doors and throughout the yard. May also be responsible for the physical loading, unloading and/or sorting of packages by hand, including lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying and placing, in a safe and efficient manner.

Essential Function

* Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer from the yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard.

* Communicates with management and/or central control to coordinate trailer movements in the yard. 

* Documents trailer moves using the Yard Management System (where available) or switcher cards. 

* Performs pre- and post-trip inspections on switcher equipment. 

* Understands and demonstrates effective yard switching safety processes and procedures. In addition to the above essential functions, Switchers may also be required to perform Package Handler essential functions as follows: 

* Utilizes "hand-to-surface" methods for all package handling. 

* Loads and unloads packages onto or from delivery vehicles, trailers, conveyor system carts and load gratings. 

* Lifts, carries, pushes and pulls packages on a continuous and repetitive basis for approximate shifts of two to four hours. 

* Determines the appropriate conveyor system by scanning packages, reading labels and charts, verifying numbers and memorizing information and sorts packages accordingly.

* Peforms other duties as assigned


Minimum Education

*None required

Minimum Experience

*No experience required; six (6) months of experience as a package handler or switching/CDL operator experience preferred.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

* Must have a valid driver's license and maintain a Department of Transportation (DOT) file.

* Ability to understand and follow instruction regarding work duties and safety methods. 

* Ability to discern numbers and information in order to sort packages correctly.

* Ability to use basic tools and equipment such as skate wheel rollers, dock carts, hand-held scanners, chutes and unloading devices.

* Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work well in a fast-paced team environment.

Job Conditions

* May work in hot and cold temperatures

* May work in an environment with fumes

* May work in an area with loud noise


Preferred Qualifications:

Pay Transparency: $21.35- $21.35

Pay:

Additional Details: Twilight/Evenings


Federal Express Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including, Vets/Disability.

Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application process. Applicants who require reasonable accommodations in the application or hiring process should contact recruitmentsupport@fedex.com.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

  • Know Your Rights
  • Pay Transparency
  • Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  • Employee Polygraph Protection Act

E-Verify Program Participant: Federal Express Corporation participates in the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' E-Verify program (For U.S. applicants and employees only). Please click below to learn more about the E-Verify program:

  • E-Verify Notice (bilingual)
  • Right to Work Notice (English) / (Spanish)


For details on our comprehensive benefits, click here.

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