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Switchman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Xanterra Travel Collection

Switchman II

Williams, AZ · On-site

$20.25/hr

The Switchman II is responsible for night and day switching of railroad equipment: passenger cars, maintenance of way equipment, & locomotives. Perform mechanical inspections, air brake tests ...

Xanterra Travel Collection

Switchman II

Williams, AZ

$20.25/hr

The Switchman II is responsible for night and day switching of railroad equipment: passenger cars, maintenance of way equipment, & locomotives. Perform mechanical inspections, air brake tests ...

G&W

Conductor/Switchman

Catawba, SC · On-site

$24/hr

As a Conductor/Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure operational efficiency. We will provide you with hands-on and classroom training to set a strong ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Conductor/Switchman

Catawba, SC · On-site

$24/hr

As a Conductor/Switchman, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure operational efficiency. We will provide you with hands-on and classroom training to set a strong ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Conductor/Switchman

Fairburn, GA

$24/hr

* This position DOES NOT pay into Railroad Retirement Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team -- part of a legacy that is over 125 ...

G&W

Conductor/Switchman

Fairburn, GA · On-site

$24/hr

* This position DOES NOT pay into Railroad Retirement Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team - part of a legacy that is over 125 ...

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Switchman information

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How much do switchman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 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 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.
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What states have the most Switchman jobs? States with the most job openings for Switchman jobs include:
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Switchman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,288 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Switchman II

Switchman II

Xanterra Travel Collection

Williams, AZ • On-site

$20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Xanterra Travel Collection rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 106 rated hotels

Job description

Overview
Join
Join out Railway Operations team at the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel!
Why the Train Engineer Department?
We're a dynamic team of passionate go-getters who live and breathe trains, are dedicated to protecting the environment, and love creating unforgettable experiences for our guests! Every day is an adventure, and we can't wait to share it with you!
Job Summary:
The Switchman II is responsible for night and day switching of railroad equipment: passenger cars, maintenance of way equipment, & locomotives. Perform mechanical inspections, air brake tests, maintenance, repairs, and servicing.
The Details:
Status: Full-time year round.
Pay: $20.25 hourly
Schedule:Typical schedule is 40 hours, 5 days/per week (may include weekends, nights, and holidays).
Life at the Grand Canyon Railway
  • Generous benefit program including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, and more!
  • A fast-paced, exciting work environment with plenty of upward mobility and growth opportunities
  • Meet people of all ages from all over the country and world!

Benefits and Perks:
  • Free gym and pool access
  • Free train tickets
  • Free entry to Bearizona
  • Exclusive retail and dining discounts at GCR and other Xanterra properties
  • The adventure of a lifetime!

Responsibilities
  • Fully understands and supports Xanterra Mission Statement and Core Values.
  • Works safely and efficiently without injury to self, co-workers, passengers, or the public. Work safely without causing damage to property or equipment.
  • Visually inspects machinery or equipment to determine if it meets minimum requirements of safety operation, and customer service levels.
  • Performs air brake tests as required by DOT-FRA, General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), and company rules.
  • Works as needed to facilitate switching railroad equipment.
  • Performs maintenance and repairs on railroad equipment to maintain safety and proper operating standards, as well as, maintains with proper care and use of materials, test equipment, machines and hand tools normally associated with assigned job.
  • Operates various designs of manual track switches and derails to change the route of railroad equipment. Check switch points and derails to make sure switch or derail is properly aligned.
  • Observes/monitors track conditions such as broken rails, defective switches or signals, track obstructions, weather-related problems, etc. Also observe/monitor railroad right-of-way, passing trains, vehicular traffic at crossings, position of switches, etc.
  • Complies with General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), train movement and switching instructions, train signals, and railroad rules and regulations to make-up and move railroad equipment.
  • Provides timely, accurate, and legible accounting of all hours for the Hours-of-Service record.
  • Comply with DOT/FRA random pool drug and alcohol testing.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Qualifications:
  • 1 year of experience in mechanical or construction trades such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical, welding, painting, etc.
  • At least 19 years of age.
  • Must possess a valid and clear Arizona Driver's License and comply with GCR Special Instructions and the Xanterra/GCR Vehicle Policy

Prefered Qualifications:
  • Previous railroad experience preferred
  • First Aid/CPR certification preferred

Physical Requirements:
  • Heavy work, lifting and pulling up to 70 pounds occasionally and up to 100 pounds on a rare basis.
  • Stoop/bend/kneel/crouch/balance/climb on a Frequent basis.
  • Walking long distances over uneven terrain.
  • Must meet auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection thresholds.
  • Exposure to equipment that intensifies the heat factor on an occasional basis.

Xanterra Parks & Resorts® Grand Canyon Railway (GCR) "We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, Female/Minority/Veterans/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity."

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