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Switchman Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

PSC Group, Human Resources

Rail Switching Operator

Martinez, CA · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rail Switching Operator PSC Group is hiring dependable, safety-minded individuals to join our Rail Switching team. This full-time position involves working outdoors to safely move railcars within an ...

EC Source

Assistant Project Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K/yr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Assistant Project Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K/yr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

HDR

Substation Senior Structural Engineer (San Jose)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$119K - $161K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This role focuses on the structural design components of high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects up to 500kV, including steel structure and foundation analysis & design.

HDR

Substation Project Structural Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

The Substation Project Structural Engineer has broad technical knowledge and experience with the structural design components of high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects up to 500kV ...

HDR

Substation Project Structural Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

The Substation Project Structural Engineer has broad technical knowledge and experience with the structural design components of high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects up to 500kV ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Assistant Project Manager

San Jose, CA

$130K/yr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

EC Source

Project Admin

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

From the electric plant to the end users, MasTec's experienced managers and crews consistently deliver transmission, distribution, and substation & switchyard services with an unfailing commitment to ...

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All JobsSwitchman JobsSwitchman Jobs in California

Switchman information

See California salary details

$14

$21

$27

How much do switchman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchman in California is $21.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $22.07 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.

More about Switchman jobs

What are popular job titles related to Switchman jobs in California?

For Switchman jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Switchman jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Switchman jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Switchman jobs in CA?

For Switchman jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Switchman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchman job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,708 per year, or $21 per hour.

Substation Project Structural Engineer

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising

Irvine, CA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Substation Project Structural Engineer

HDR Engineering is looking for a Substation Project Structural Engineer to join our growing and nationally ranked team of Power Delivery professionals. The engineer will have broad technical knowledge and experience with the structural design components of high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects up to 500kV, including steel structure and foundation analysis & design. Working in close coordination with Project Managers and teams in multiple office locations, the engineer will execute structural engineering and design tasks and provide technical guidance to EITs and non-structural project team members.

Responsibilities:

  • Execute structural engineering tasks for a variety of substation structural members such as rolled steel shapes, lattice steel framing, and folded plate tubular steel shapes. Detailed design, calculations, and detailing for fabrication or development of loading and concept drawings for submittal to a steel fabricator will be performed.
  • Execute foundation design tasks for substation structures, including drilled piers, spread footings, driven piles, and other foundation types, using industry‑standard software.
  • Prepare and/or review specifications for construction and materials.
  • Assign project tasks to EITs and provide technical guidance to the project team.
  • Coordinate and perform quality checks and reviews for project deliverables per HDR Quality Management Systems (QMS) requirements to deliver a world‑class quality product to the client.
  • Collaborate with other engineers to develop and maintain standards.
  • Work independently while mentoring and training one or more EITs and designers.
  • Execute multiple projects concurrently, collaborating with teams in different locations.
  • Participate in project reviews as needed.

Some travel may be required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Technical design experience with physical/outdoor design of high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects.
  • Familiarity with NESC, NEC, IEEE, ANSI, ASCE‑113 and other industry standards.
  • Experience using industry standard design software, including PLS‑Tower and Mathcad Prime, AutoCAD or MicroStation.
  • Minimum 5 years of technical design experience with high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects, including foundation and steel structural design.
  • Working knowledge of AISC‑360, ASCE‑7, ACI‑318 and other industry standards.
  • Experience using design software such as STAAD, RISA, MFAD, L‑Pile or equivalent.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong conceptual, organizational, problem‑solving, and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.
  • Professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered (e.g., PE or P.Eng).
  • Previous experience with an architectural/engineering or engineering consulting firm.
  • Commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture.
Job Details

Primary Location: United States-California-Irvine

Industry: Power

Schedule: Full‑time

Employee Status: Regular

Equal Employment Opportunity

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.

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