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Switchman Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

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.

Switchman duties are on the horizon, and we'll provide the training and certification. * Multitasking Marvel: You'll juggle various tasks in the loading racks, from operating loading equipment to ...

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Switchman information

See Ohio salary details

$14

$20

$26

How much do switchman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchman in Ohio is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.
What are popular job titles related to Switchman jobs in OH? For Switchman jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Switchman job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,104 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Rail Switching Technician- Marion, OH

Rail Switching Technician- Marion, OH

Marmon

Marion, OH

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Marmon Holdings rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 15 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 and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Marion to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, hands-on role critical to the safe movement, placement, and switching of railcars to support customer operations and production schedules.
This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being part of a safety-focused team. Railserve provides opportunities for long-term career growth and advancement within rail operations.

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 Railserve

Job Description
Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This role supports the timely and accurate switching, placement, and movement of railcars while maintaining compliance with company safety procedures and customer operating requirements.

Employees work in active industrial rail yard environments around locomotives, railcars, heavy equipment, and moving machinery. Daily responsibilities include operating switches and brakes, coupling and uncoupling railcars, inspecting equipment, and communicating movement instructions with crews and site leadership.

The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Strong attendance, communication skills, and a commitment to safety are critical for success in this role.

Railserve promotes from within and provides opportunities for advancement into leadership and skilled rail operations positions.

Schedule
Schedule based on operational and customer needs
Overtime, weekends, holidays, and shift work may be required

Compensation
$25.00 - $27.00 per hour based on experience

Duties
Operate locomotives and rail equipment safely and efficiently
Perform railcar switching and placement according to operational schedules
Interpret train orders, signals, and operating procedures
Inspect locomotives prior to operation
Operate hand and ground throw switches, derails, and gates
Control equipment movement using radio communication, hand signals, and lanterns
Couple and uncouple railcars and connect air hoses
Apply and release hand brakes to secure equipment
Observe tracks and surroundings for safety hazards or obstructions
Handle train equipment safely using independent and automatic brakes
Assist in training new employees as needed
Complete reports related to delays, incidents, or operational activity
Lubricate and inspect locomotive components as required
Wear required personal protective equipment at all times
Follow company operating procedures and safety requirements
Perform additional operational duties as assigned

Job Requirements
High school diploma or GED required
Reliable transportation required
Strong attendance and dependability required
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Ability to walk on uneven terrain and climb on rail equipment
Ability to lift, carry, and handle heavy equipment and materials
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities safely and effectively
Strong attention to detail and situational awareness
Ability to follow safety rules, operating procedures, and instructions
Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check
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
Outdoor industrial rail yard environment
Exposure to locomotives, railcars, moving machinery, noise, dust, and varying weather conditions
Moderate to heavy physical labor required
Frequent walking, climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, and lifting
Required use of personal protective equipment
Safety-sensitive position requiring strict compliance with company and customer safety procedures

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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