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Tamper Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marmon

Tamper Operator - Railway Maintenance

Concord, NC · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

The Tamper Operator is responsible for operating railway tamping machines used to align and compact the ballast under railway tracks, ensuring a smooth and stable rail surface. This role is vital in ...

RailWorks

TAMPER OPERATOR

Stockton, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

TAMPER OPERATOR Position Summary: Operates Tamper in a safe manner to perform maintenance and construction activities in the repair and rebuilding of track structure. Primary/Essential ...

RailWorks

TAMPER OPERATOR

Stockton, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Compensation Pay Range - $35.00 through $50.00 Position Summary Operates Tamper in a safe manner to ... A minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment (jackson 6700) - in a railroad ...

RailWorks

TAMPER OPERATOR

Stockton, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Compensation Pay Range - $35.00 through $50.00 Position Summary Operates Tamper in a safe manner to ... A minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment (jackson 6700) - in a railroad ...

RailWorks Corporation

TAMPER OPERATOR

Stockton, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Compensation Pay Range - $35.00 through $50.00 Position Summary Operates Tamper in a safe manner to ... A minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment (jackson 6700) - in a railroad ...

RailWorks

TAMPER OPERATOR

Stockton, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Compensation Pay Range - $35.00 through $50.00 Position Summary Operates Tamper in a safe manner to ... A minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment (jackson 6700) - in a railroad ...

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$13

$22

$38

How much do tamper operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for tamper operator in the United States is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tamper operator?

A Tamper Operator is responsible for operating specialized machinery, such as a ballast tamper, to maintain and align railroad tracks. Their main duties include adjusting track alignment, compacting ballast, and ensuring smooth and safe railway operation. They work closely with maintenance crews to inspect and repair tracks, often in outdoor and physically demanding conditions. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical skills, and knowledge of railroad safety regulations.

What does a tamper operator do?

A typical day for a Tamper Operator involves setting up equipment at the job site, performing pre-operation checks, and operating the tamper or compactor to compact soil, asphalt, or other materials as directed by supervisors. You'll often coordinate closely with other crew members, follow site safety procedures, and perform routine maintenance on your equipment throughout the day. The work is usually outdoors and may require physical stamina, attention to detail, and adaptability to changing site conditions. Operators are also expected to log their work and communicate findings or issues with their team to ensure smooth project progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tamper operator?

To excel as a Tamper Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and familiarity with roadwork or construction equipment, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with operating heavy machinery—specifically tamping machines or compactors—and knowledge of safety protocols and maintenance procedures are important. Strong communication, teamwork, and reliability help individuals thrive in fast-paced, outdoor environments. These skills are essential for maintaining equipment efficiency, ensuring a safe job site, and delivering high-quality work on schedule.

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Tamper Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tamper Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 18% Nights. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,951 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Railroad Tamper Operator - Louisiana

Pointer Smith Contracting Corporation

Geismar, LA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Railroad Tamper Operator

The Railroad Tamper Operator operates the Jackson 6700 Tamper in a safe manner to perform maintenance and construction activities in the repair and rebuilding of track structure. 1-2 years of operating experience is required.

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