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Tamper Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Universal Rail Systems

Backhoe Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

Backhoe Operator North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to ... as Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. The role involves both general construction and ...

New

Universal Rail Systems

Backhoe Operator I

Houston, TX · On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

Backhoe Operator American Track recognizes that earthwork is a vital part of almost all railroad ... include a Tamper machine and Ballast Regulator. The applicant is being hired with the intent of ...

City of Marshall, TX

Street Maintenance I

Marshall, TX

$15.08/hr

... operating assigned equipment and vehicles. Ability to operate assigned equipment. (Includes shovels, pick, rake, pitchfork, post hole digger, ax, hammer, machete, air jackhammer, tamper, chainsaw ...

City of Marshall, TX

Street Maintenance I

Marshall, TX · On-site

$15.08/hr

... and operating assigned equipment and vehicles. * Ability to operate assigned equipment. (Includes shovels, pick, rake, pitchfork, post hole digger, ax, hammer, machete, air jackhammer, tamper ...

American Track

Backhoe Operator

Houston, TX

$40K - $53K/yr

Backhoe Operator Build your career with an innovative and sustainable railroad maintenance and ... Tamper machine and Ballast Regulator. The applicant is being hired with the intent of working as a ...

Town Of Pecos City

Streets Equipment Operator I

Pecos, TX · On-site

$35K - $49K/yr

... tamper, plate compactor, saws, pumps, oil distributor, compressors, sanders, generators, common hand and power tools, shovels, wrenches, detection devices, mobile radio, and various phone types.

Town Of Pecos City

Streets Equipment Operator I

Pecos, TX · On-site

$35K - $49K/yr

... tamper, plate compactor, saws, pumps, oil distributor, compressors, sanders, generators, common hand and power tools, shovels, wrenches, detection devices, mobile radio, and various phone types.

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All JobsTamper Operator JobsTamper Operator Jobs in Texas

Tamper Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$20

$36

How much do tamper operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for tamper operator in Texas is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.60 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.

What are popular job titles related to Tamper Operator jobs in Texas?

For Tamper Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tamper Operator jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Tamper Operator jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Tamper Operator jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Tamper Operator job openings:

Tamper Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tamper Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,811 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Backhoe Operator

Universal Rail Systems

Houston, TX • On-site

$44K - $58K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Backhoe Operator

North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to perform essential earthwork for railroad construction and maintenance projects. This hourly craft position also includes training to operate specialized on-track equipment such as Tamper machines and Ballast Regulators. The role involves both general construction and precision rail operations, with travel and occasional weekend work expected.

Major Responsibilities

  • Set up and operate heavy construction equipment in a safe manner
  • Keep equipment clean and perform required maintenance
  • Proper pre-start and daily maintenance, including lubrication and required documentation
  • Operate equipment to grade or redistribute earth and move, load or unload material
  • Install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand/audio signals from crew members
  • Signal directions to coworkers
  • Study instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements
  • Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work
  • Grade plan requirements and set grade standards
  • Lead a crew, delegate work within work scope, and assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed basis
  • Understand production and quantity requirements and make decisions based on verifiable standards
  • Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts including operating on-track machinery
  • Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education Required: High School Diploma or GED preferred

Work Experience Required: Minimum of one year operating a backhoe; experience in railroad construction strongly preferred. Valid driver's license required. Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.

Skills & Knowledge Required: Ability to understand work instructions and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members. Physical capability to perform demanding tasks, including lifting up to 100 lbs and working at heights. Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and around heavy equipment, moving machinery, noise, dust, and grease. Strong situational awareness and attention to safety in active construction environments. Comfortable navigating uneven terrain and climbing on/off heavy equipment safely.

Thank you for your interest in this position and for taking the time to apply. We appreciate your patience as we review all applications. While we will provide updates as soon as they are available, please note that we may not be able to respond to all applicants individually.

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