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Switchman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brown & Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX

The Railroad Yardmaster is responsible for directing and managing all rail yard activities, including the movement of trains, coordination of railcar switching, and communication with train crews.

Cando Rail & Terminals

Switchman/Conductor

Mckinnon, WY · On-site

Switchman/Conductors with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services. Working in a fast-paced, customer-oriented environment, the Switching crew must work well ...

Brown & Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

The Railroad Yardmaster is responsible for directing and managing all rail yard activities, including the movement of trains, coordination of railcar switching, and communication with train crews.

Brown and Root

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX · On-site

The Railroad Yardmaster is responsible for directing and managing all rail yard activities, including the movement of trains, coordination of railcar switching, and communication with train crews.

Genesee & Wyoming Inc.

$26/hr

Job Summary: As a Switchman/Engineer or Utility Conductor, you'll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure operational efficiency. We will provide you with hands‑on and ...

G&W

Conductor/Switchman

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$30/hr

As a Switchman/Engineer or Utility Conductor, 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 ...

NextEra Energy

Principal Engineer - Switchyard

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$126K - $189K/yr

The Switchyard Engineer will contribute to switchyard engineering activities from conceptual design through construction and commissioning, ensuring alignment with nuclear station requirements ...

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 ...

NextEra Energy

Principal Engineer - Switchyard

Denver, CO · On-site

$126K - $189K/yr

The Switchyard Engineer will contribute to switchyard engineering activities from conceptual design through construction and commissioning, ensuring alignment with nuclear station requirements ...

Switchyards, Inc.

Member Support ()

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$11.75 - $15.25/hr

s Member Spport Representtive, yo'll help crrent n prospective members with qestions bot their memberships, clbs, cconts, n everything in between. Whether yo're responing to n emil, trobleshooting n ...

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 ...

Marmon

Locomotive Operator/Switchman

Marion, OH · On-site

UTLX 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 ...

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Switchman information

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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.

Railroad Switchman 2

Mont Belvieu, TX

Brown & Root
Engineering Professional Services • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Brown & Rootexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Brown & Root rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

372nd of 454 rated engineering

Job description

The Railroad Yardmaster is responsible for directing and managing all rail yard activities, including the movement of trains, coordination of railcar switching, and communication with train crews. The Yardmaster ensures that all rail operations within the yard are conducted safely, on time, and in accordance with federal and company regulations. This role is essential to ensuring that freight and passenger trains depart and arrive on schedule and that cargo is properly sorted for delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Rail Yard Operations:
    • Direct and coordinate the movement of trains and railcars within the yard, including the assembly, disassembly, and switching of train cars.
    • Assign and direct train crews to ensure safe and efficient movement of railcars according to schedules.
    • Monitor and inspect yard infrastructure, such as tracks, switches, and signaling systems, to ensure safe operations.
    • Plan and organize rail yard activities to optimize the flow of rail traffic and prevent congestion.
  • Safety & Compliance:
    • Ensure compliance with all safety standards and regulations, including those set by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and company policies.
    • Conduct regular safety briefings and ensure that crews are aware of and following all safety protocols.
    • Investigate and report safety incidents, accidents, or equipment malfunctions, ensuring proper corrective actions are taken.
  • Train Scheduling & Communication:
    • Work closely with dispatchers and train controllers to manage train schedules and maintain timely departures and arrivals.
    • Communicate with engineers, conductors, and other railroad personnel to ensure that instructions and movements are clear and understood.
    • Monitor weather conditions and other factors that may affect rail operations, adjusting schedules or procedures as necessary.
  • Personnel Management:
    • Supervise, train, and evaluate the performance of yard employees, including switch operators, brakemen, and conductors.
    • Schedule work shifts for rail yard employees to ensure adequate coverage and efficiency.
    • Provide guidance and support to train crews, ensuring proper execution of yard assignments.
  • Documentation & Reporting:
    • Maintain accurate records of railcar movements, train schedules, and yard operations.
    • Prepare reports on yard activities, incidents, and overall performance for management.
    • Ensure that all paperwork related to freight, train composition, and yard operations is complete and compliant with regulatory requirements.
  • Equipment & Maintenance:
    • Monitor the condition of yard equipment, including locomotives, switches, and track systems.
    • Coordinate with maintenance teams to ensure timely repairs and prevent operational delays.
    • Report any equipment issues to the appropriate department for corrective action.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (an associate's or bachelor's degree in logistics, transportation, or a related field is a plus).
  • 3-5 years of experience working in railroad operations or a related field, with at least 1-2 years in a supervisory role.
  • In-depth knowledge of railroad operations, including rail yard procedures, safety regulations, and train movement protocols.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and handle fast-paced environments with competing priorities.
  • Proficiency in relevant software and systems for train scheduling and yard management.
  • Flexibility to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as rail yard operations run 24/7.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to work in outdoor environments, in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and climb for extended periods.
  • Must be able to lift or move objects up to 50 lbs.
  • Willingness to work in a loud, industrial environment.

Brown & Root Industrial Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

BENEFITS

Brown and Root offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include a 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development

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About Brown & Root

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Brown & Root is a prominent player in the industrial service industry, with their headquarters nestled in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, US. With a substantial history dating back to 1919, the company has built a reputation for delivering comprehensive solutions to their customers, primarily in engineering, construction, maintenance, operations, and other related industrial services. Brown & Root’s core mission is echoed in their commitment to safety, customer satisfaction, integrity, and delivering high-quality services. They also take pride in their culture of continuous improvement which has yielded significant achievements such as earning a spot in the Engineering News-Record's top 400 contractors list.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1919

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