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Switchman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SUMMARY Operates plant packing equipment in a safe and efficient manner. RESPONSIBILITIES - Assumes responsibility for assisting in meeting plant production requirements as set by client/owner ...

SUMMARY Operates plant packing equipment in a safe and efficient manner. RESPONSIBILITIES - Assumes responsibility for assisting in meeting plant production requirements as set by client/owner ...

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 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 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Experienced Conductor/Switchman

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

This position requires prior Railyard Switchman/Conductor experience. Yardmaster or Coordinator Experience a plus! Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee ...

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 ...

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 ...

* 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 Jun 16, 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 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 cities are hiring for Switchman jobs? Cities with the most Switchman job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Switchman jobs? The top employers for Switchman jobs are:
What states have the most Switchman jobs? States with the most job openings for Switchman jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Switchman jobs? For Switchman jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Switchman job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,288 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Railroad Switchman 4

Railroad Switchman 4

Brown & Root

Mont Belvieu, TX

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Brown & Root rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

SUMMARY
Operates plant packing equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assumes responsibility for assisting in meeting plant production requirements as set by client/owner
- Observant of operating process equipments and maintenance need.
- Communicating with supervision as necessary to ensure maximum performances as outlined by production goals
- Reads and interprets instructions and documentation and plans work activities.
- Moves materials and equipment to work locations and sets up work sites
- Follows all hazardous waste handling guidelines.
- Completes records, maintains tools and equipment, and performs various clean-up and housekeeping activities.
- Responsible for observing and complying with all safety and project rules. Performs other duties as required.

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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