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Switchman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SA Recycling

Switchman

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

As a Switchman you will be responsible for the safe operations of a Trackmobile to move empty and full railcars in a scrap metal processing yard. This position will work outside in varying weather ...

SA Recycling

Switchman

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

As a Switchman you will be responsible for the safe operations of a Trackmobile to move empty and full railcars in a scrap metal processing yard. This position will work outside in varying weather ...

omnitrax

Switchman

Green River, WY · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY The Switchman position is a cross functional role that is able to handle several key duties within the Transportation, Engineering & Mechanical Departments. This position oversees ...

ssc

Switchman

El Dorado, KS · On-site

Excellent Benefits including medical, dental, vision, profit sharing and 401 (k) with match What you will be doing as a Railroad Switchman * Assist with spotting cars on the correct track; move empty ...

Savage

Switchman

El Dorado, KS · On-site

Participate in and promote Savage safety program/SHAPS Requirements of a successful Rail Switchman * A high school diploma, or equivalent * Valid driver's license * Ability to perform basic ...

G&W

Switchman

Annapolis, MO · On-site

Job Summary: As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is delivered to our customers efficiently. We will provide you with hands-on and ...

omnitrax

Switchman

Green River, WY · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY The Switchman position is a cross functional role that is able to handle several key duties within the Transportation, Engineering & Mechanical Departments. This position oversees ...

OmniTRAX

Switchman

Green River, WY · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY The Switchman position is a cross functional role that is able to handle several key duties within the Transportation, Engineering & Mechanical Departments. This position oversees ...

Kinder Morgan

Switchman

Fairless Hills, PA · On-site

What We Are Looking For The Switchman job involves assisting in the movement of locomotives and trains cars by throwing switches, setting brakes, coupling and uncoupling cars, observing for hazards ...

JSW Steel USA

Switchman

Baytown, TX · On-site

$20/hr

JSW Steel is seeking to hire an experienced Switchman to join our team! The chosen person will be is responsible for the safe and efficient coordination of locomotive switching operations within the ...

Marmon

Switchman

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$20.99 - $25.10/hr

Union Tank Car Company is seeking applicants to become a Switchman at our full-service rail tank car repair shop in Valdosta, GA to assist in various departments as needed by plant production.We are ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Switchman

Calvert, AL · On-site

Job Summary: As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is delivered to our customers efficiently. We will provide you with hands-on and ...

G&W

Switchman

Calvert, AL · On-site

Job Summary: As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is delivered to our customers efficiently. We will provide you with hands-on and ...

G&W

Switchman

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$31.50/hr

Job Summary: As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is delivered to our customers efficiently. We will provide you with hands-on and ...

OmniTRAX, Inc.

Switchman - TaTa

Green River, WY · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

The Switchman position demonstrates and adheres to the company values of: safety, honesty, ownership, respect and teamwork to ensure successful partnerships with customers and employees that result ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Switchman

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$31.50/hr

Job Summary: As a Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is delivered to our customers efficiently. We will provide you with hands-on and ...

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Switchman information

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$14

$21

$27

How much do switchman jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchman in the United States is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a switchman?

A switchman operates the track switches for a railroad. Their job duties involve operating the switches and brakes, inspecting important parts of the trains, attaching and detaching freight cars, and moving cars. This career requires excellent physical strength and stamina, so switchmen have to undergo a medical exam and a physical exam. Additional qualifications include strong mechanical skills and good hand-eye coordination. Most railyards provide on-the-job training so switchmen can learn about railroad equipment as well as standard policies and procedures.

What does a switchman do?

A Switchman is responsible for operating railroad switches, which control the direction of train movements on tracks. They work in rail yards or along railway lines to ensure trains are routed safely and efficiently. Switchmen also couple and uncouple train cars, signal engineers, and help organize cars for proper train assembly. Their work is essential for smooth rail operations and preventing accidents. Attention to detail and strict adherence to safety protocols are key aspects of this job.

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

To thrive as a Switchman, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, strong situational awareness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with radio communication devices, track-switching systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient movement of trains and minimize risks in a physically demanding and hazardous environment.

What are some common challenges faced by switchmen in their day-to-day work?

Switchmen often work outdoors in varying weather conditions and are responsible for safely directing railcars, which requires constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols. The role can be physically demanding, involving manual operation of track switches and coupling or uncoupling railcars. Additionally, switchmen must communicate clearly with engineers and conductors to coordinate movements, which is crucial to preventing accidents and maintaining efficient rail yard operations.

What is the difference between Switchman vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectSwitchmanSignal Maintainer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, switching areasRailway signals, control centers
Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight and passenger trainsRailroad companies, signaling systems
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Switchmen and Signal Maintainers work in the railway industry, Switchmen primarily handle switching and moving railcars within yards, whereas Signal Maintainers focus on maintaining and repairing signaling systems. Both roles require technical skills and are essential for safe railway operations, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments.

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Switchman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchman job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,288 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Switchman

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

SA Recycling
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about SA Recyclingexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 92 rated recycling and waste

Job description

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and safety conscious individual as a Switchman. As a Switchman you will be responsible for the safe operations of a Trackmobile to move empty and full railcars in a scrap metal processing yard.

This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

Working hours are from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday and from 8:00 am to noon on Saturdays.

SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Eligible for Safety and Profitability Bonuses
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • Comprehensive benefits including affordable medical options, dental and vision care
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Weekly Pay
  • Paid Holidays & Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE

Responsibilities of a Switchman

  • Responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a Trackmobile in a scrap metal recycling yard.
  • Perform regular inspections on equipment, tracks and switches and immediately report any concerns, defects, or needed repairs to management.
  • Review railcar plan to move and stage rails cars for loading or building for shipment.
  • Operate track switches, visually check switch condition and direction, to change the direction of the switching engine or cars.
  • Couple air and electrical connections between cars and Trackmobile and set or release brakes.
  • Signal equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of machinery, equipment, and materials for the safe loading of railcars.
  • Must keep working area and Trackmobile clean and organized.
  • Provide backup or help throughout the yard as needed or assigned.
  • Follow all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.

Qualifications of a Switchman

  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 1-year previous experience in the movement of railcars using a Trackmobile preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to carry out instructions provided in written, oral, or diagrammatic form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified). 

All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

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