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Tamper Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laborer, Handroller (1H) Hilo

Keaau, HI

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

... operator with cleaning of spreader(s). 4. May assist with duties in other classifications as a function of on-the-job training using rakes, shovels, mobile brooms, road sweeper, tamper plate and ...

Laborer, Handroller (1H) Hilo

Keaau, HI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

... operator with cleaning of spreader(s). 4. May assist with duties in other classifications as a function of on-the-job training using rakes, shovels, mobile brooms, road sweeper, tamper plate and ...

Machine Operator - ATN

Gadsden, AL · On-site

$14 - $16.50/hr

Backhoe, Grapple Truck, Boom Truck and Tamper * Considered an expert in operating all CDL equipment, and handles all advanced operating duties * Perform CDL work to meet qualifications of the FMCSA ...

Backhoe Operator

Dillsburg, PA · On-site

$42K - $56K/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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Tamper Operator information

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$13

$22

$38

How much do tamper operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Tamper Operator position, and why are they important?

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 does a typical workday look like for a Tamper Operator?

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 is a Tamper Operator job?

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.

More about Tamper Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Tamper Operator jobs? Cities with the most Tamper Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tamper Operator jobs? The most popular types of Tamper Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Tamper Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Tamper Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Tamper Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,951 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
A-Repairman-Track & Way Maintainer

A-Repairman-Track & Way Maintainer

Maryland Department of Transportation

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$44.31/hr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Salary: $44.31 Hourly
Location : Baltimore City
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 8092-MTA-07/26/BT
Department: Maryland Transit Administration
Opening Date: 07/15/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration
A-Repairman-Track & Way Maintainer (8092)
Are you seeking a job where your work is rewarding and provides excellent benefits?
The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) invites you to apply today to be considered for a position that provides customer service to the citizens of Maryland every day. The MTA is one of the largest transit systems in the United States and is seeking dynamic and energetic individuals to join the MDOT MTA team.
The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) is recruiting for A Repairman-Track & Way Maintainer. The A Repairman-Track & Way Maintainer will repair, install, inspect, and clean running rail, guard rails, closure rails and associated track fasteners and accessories. The Employee will perform flagging, welding, grinding, fabrication, removing, repairing, installing and scheduled maintenance on metro & light rail tracks and related structures/appurtenances in accordance with MTA track standards, design plans/specifications and Federal and State law.
The current vacancy is located in Baltimore City or Glen Burnie Maryland.The current work schedule hours vary on a 24-hour shift.
Qualifications
Education: Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.
Experience: One (1) year of experience in railroad or a related industry repairing, installing, inspecting, and cleaning running rail, guard rails, closure rails, and associated track fasteners and accessories. Experience as a railroad tamper operator is highly desirable. Must successfully complete a medical evaluation to determine the ability to perform the essential functions of the position.
Substitution Information: Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience involving staff work related to the administration of rules, regulations, policies, procedures and processes, or overseeing or coordinating unit operations or functioning as a staff assistant on a year-for-year basis for the required education and experience.
Special Requirements:
  1. Employee will be required to maintain a reliable communication link for emergency call-back requirements.
  2. Employee will be required to work shifts, evenings, holidays, weekends. Employee.
  3. Employee will be exposed to a variety of hazards, requiring the wearing of protective clothing and the use of appropriate safety and Personal Protective Equipment.
  4. Employees in this position are considered "Essential Employees" and will be required to sign and agree to all policies and procedures relating to "Essential Employee" status.
  5. Eligible applicants will be subject to background investigation under Federal and State laws and regulations. A conviction is not an automatic disqualification to employment. Erroneous, misleading, or fraudulent information on the application is enough grounds for rejection from the hiring process, removal from the list of eligible, withdrawal of an offer for employment or immediate discharge.
  6. Employees in this classification are subject to pre-employment drug testing and substance abuse testing in accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations 49-Federal Department of Transportation Drug Alcohol Testing Protocols and Federal Transit Administration Alcohol Testing Rules, and Transportation Code of Maryland Regulations 11.02.11, Testing for Illegal Use of Drugs.

Environmental Conditions:
  1. The employee may travel and work outdoors at various locations throughout the MTA service area, in all types of weather conditions, and at all times of the day or night. Employee may be exposed to a variety of hazards including, but not limited to, toxic materials and fumes, asbestos, flammable or combustible agents; any of which may require the use of personal safety equipment such as hard hats, hearing protection, protective eyewear/footwear, and respirators.
  2. Applicant must be able to perform the physical aspects required in a heavy maintenance shop environment including climbing, bending, crouching, stretching, and lifting objects weighing at least 50 lbs.

Licenses & Certifications
Applicants must possess a Driver's License valid in the State of Maryland. Applicants must list the license number and date of expiration on the application.
Must have a Class "A" Restricted CDL Permit prior to hire and a CDL within the ninety (90) day probationary period.
Additional Information
Employees should adhere to all safety rules, policies, regulations, and personal protective equipment requirements to support a safe and healthy working environment. Employees may attend and participate in safety meetings, be aware of hazards in their work area, and should report hazards, unsafe acts, near misses, injuries, and accidents immediately.
To support a safe and healthy work environment, employees must refrain from willful violations of safety rules and procedures, reckless and negligent behavior, involvement in criminal activities, and the misuse of drugs or alcohol. Failure to adhere to this requirement may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination. Employees may only perform work for which they have the appropriate safety training.
To Apply:
You must complete a Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) application (Form MJ-45) to be considered for this recruitment. Resumes may not be substituted for the application. It is essential that the application is filled out completely and accurately, listing all relevant experience in detail and addressing the specific requirements shown above. Please include all relevant experience in your application. This includes, but is not limited to, full or part-time, volunteer, military, acting capacity, or any other experience that is relevant to the position you are applying for within MDOT, one of the Transportation Business Units, or the Authority.
If you have held more than one (1) position at the same employer, please list each position that you held and the length of time that you held each position.
Note:
Applications not completely filled out will not be considered. The selected candidate may be subject to background and reference checks. Employees are subject to the State Substance Abuse Policy, to include possible drug testing.
Applications must be completed and submitted online by registering at . Make sure you meet the minimum and selective qualifications and follow the instructions on MDOT's Online Employment Center website.
Applicants with degrees granted outside of the United States will be required to provide a written evaluation of education documentation by a credentialing organization such as: International Credential Evaluation (WES), .
The incumbent in this position will be a member of a covered bargaining unit.Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be provided as requested.
The Maryland Department of Transportation is not sponsoring new employees in application of the H-1B Visa or providing an extension of an existing H-1B Visa at this time due to budgetary constraints. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Federal regulations prohibit H-1B Visa candidates from paying sponsorship fees; all sponsorship fees must be assumed by the potential employer.TTY call 711, TTY Users May Also Call Their Telecommunications Relay Service
The MDOT MTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MDOT MTA Does Not Discriminate Based On: Age, Ancestry, Color, Creed, Gender Identity or Expression, Genetic Information, Marital Status, Mental or Physical Disability, National Origin, Race, Religious Affiliation, Belief or Opinion, Sex or Sexual Orientation.The MTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer!!
Issue Date: TBD

You should contact the MTA Benefits Office at (410) 767-3852 for assistance in the determining your personal health plan enrollment options or if you have questions concerning your eligibility