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Switchman Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Ship/Rec/Blend Oper III

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Acts as a switchman for rail switches. Tests, LOTO and prepare equipment for repairs * Fill out permits * Organize and maintain truck and rail unloading areas * Other duties as required

Ship/Rec/Blend Oper III

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Acts as a switchman for rail switches. Tests, LOTO and prepare equipment for repairs * Fill out permits * Organize and maintain truck and rail unloading areas * Other duties as required

Ship/Rec/Blend Oper III

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Acts as a switchman for rail switches. Tests, LOTO and prepare equipment for repairs * Fill out permits * Organize and maintain truck and rail unloading areas * Other duties as required

Our Renewables expertise includes solar, wind, energy storage, aftermarket services, substations and switchyards. Our Industrial expertise includes manufacturing, mining and mineral processing, power ...

Our Renewables expertise includes solar, wind, energy storage, aftermarket services, substations and switchyards. Our Industrial expertise includes manufacturing, mining and mineral processing, power ...

Our Renewables expertise includes solar, wind, energy storage, aftermarket services, substations and switchyards. Our Industrial expertise includes manufacturing, mining and mineral processing, power ...

Our Renewables expertise includes solar, wind, energy storage, aftermarket services, substations and switchyards. Our Industrial expertise includes manufacturing, mining and mineral processing, power ...

Our Renewables expertise includes solar, wind, energy storage, aftermarket services, substations and switchyards. Our Industrial expertise includes manufacturing, mining and mineral processing, power ...

Our Renewables expertise includes solar, wind, energy storage, aftermarket services, substations and switchyards. Our Industrial expertise includes manufacturing, mining and mineral processing, power ...

Our Renewables expertise includes solar, wind, energy storage, aftermarket services, substations and switchyards. Our Industrial expertise includes manufacturing, mining and mineral processing, power ...

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Showing results 1-20

Switchman information

See Indiana salary details

$14

$20

$26

How much do switchman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchman in Indiana is $20.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Switchmen, typically employed in railway operations, do not usually earn $2000 a day; such high daily wages are rare in this role. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often include specialized professions like surgeons, corporate executives, or certain high-level consultants, which require advanced skills, certifications, and experience. Most jobs paying $2000 daily are in industries with high responsibility or specialized expertise.

What does a switchman do?

A switchman is responsible for operating and maintaining track switches and signals to direct train movements safely within rail yards or along tracks. They manually or mechanically change track routes, often working outdoors in various weather conditions, and require knowledge of safety procedures and signaling systems.

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.

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 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.

How to become a switchman?

To become a switchman, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check and drug screening. On-the-job training is provided, and familiarity with railway equipment and safety procedures is essential; some positions may require certification or experience working with track switches and signals.

What does a switchman make?

A switchman typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They are responsible for operating track switches and ensuring safe train movements, often working in rail yards or on tracks, sometimes requiring certification and safety training.
What are popular job titles related to Switchman jobs in IN? For Switchman jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Switchman job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,143 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Whiting, IN- Rail Switching Technician

Whiting, IN- Rail Switching Technician

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Whiting, IN • On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Marmon Holdings rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Railserve
As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings-which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway-you'll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We're committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone's empowered to be their best.
Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Whiting, IN to support daily rail operations at an industrial facility. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role critical to keeping railcars moving safely and efficiently.
Who We Are
Railserve is a leading provider of industrial railyard services across the United States and Canada. Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive service and repair for customers who depend on safe, reliable rail operations every day. With decades of industry experience, Railserve is built on a foundation of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence. We invest in our people, promote from within, and use innovative, safety-focused technology to keep railyards running efficiently. Learn more at www.Railserve.com
Job Description
In this role, you will operate locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement and placement of railcars.
If you enjoy physical work, problem-solving, and working in a fast-paced environment where safety and teamwork come first, this role may be a great fit.
Schedule:
Full-time; schedule varies based on site and operational needs
Compensation:
$28.00 - $30.00 per hour (based on experience)
Duties
  • Inspect locomotives prior to operation (fuel, sand, water, and supplies)
  • Operate locomotive controls such as throttle and air brakes
  • Interpret train orders, signals, and safety rules
  • Assist with switching, placement, and movement of railcars
  • Operate switches, derails, gates, and trackside equipment
  • Control movement of equipment using radio, hand signals, and lanterns
  • Couple and uncouple railcars; handle air hoses and wheel chocks
  • Apply and release hand brakes to secure equipment
  • Monitor track conditions and identify hazards
  • Assist in training new employees
  • Perform routine lubrication and basic maintenance tasks
  • Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE
  • Perform additional duties as assigned

Job Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to pass a physical, drug screen, and background check
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work in outdoor environments
  • Ability to lift, carry, and handle equipment
  • Ability to climb on and off railcars, ladders, and platforms
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Dependable with reliable transportation
  • Ability to follow instructions and safety procedures
  • Military experience is a plus

What We Offer (Benefits)
Railserve is committed to being an Employer of Choice, offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance
  • Company-paid sickness and accident income
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Annual safety shoe reimbursement
  • Prescription safety wear
  • Holiday pay
  • Vacation
  • Marmon employee discount program

Additional Information
  • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Requires working around heavy equipment and moving railcars
  • Must comply with all safety requirements at all times

Grow With Us
Don't worry if you don't meet every qualification. Railserve values reliability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Our tools, technology, and processes continue to evolve, and we invest in training and developing our people for long-term success.
Railserve provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. We recruit, hire, train, promote, and compensate employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
#LI-DNI
Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to careers@marmon.com, and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.

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