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Terminal Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interstate Oil

Terminal Operator (3441)

Mcclellan, CA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Under the direction of the Terminal Supervisor, this position will be responsible for loading ... Safely operates all equipment used to load and unload rail cars. * Completes all necessary ...

Odoo

Conductor/Switchman

Venice, IL

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

The Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis may be the perfect fit for you! We offer competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and attractive retirement plans comparable to many leading railroads ...

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$36K

$71.9K

$111K

How much do terminal railroad jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for terminal railroad in the United States is $71,911.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Terminal Railroad Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Terminal Railroad Operator, you need knowledge of rail operations, safety protocols, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with railroad signaling systems, radios, and safety certification programs like FRA regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient movement of railcars and minimize the risk of accidents in demanding rail yard environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Terminal Railroad employees, and how can they be addressed?

Terminal Railroad employees often encounter challenges such as coordinating efficiently with multiple rail carriers, managing tight schedules, and working in varying weather conditions. These roles require strong communication skills to ensure safe and timely transfers of freight cars between trains and terminals. New employees may find it helpful to proactively seek mentorship, stay current with safety protocols, and participate in ongoing training programs offered by the company. Building strong relationships with colleagues and staying organized can significantly contribute to overcoming these challenges.

What is a terminal railroad?

A terminal railroad is a specialized type of railroad company that primarily operates within a limited area, such as a port, city, or industrial complex, to move freight cars between different railroads or between railroads and local industries. Terminal railroads handle switching operations, assemble and disassemble trains, and facilitate the efficient transfer of goods. They play a crucial role in connecting major rail carriers with shipping customers, helping to ensure smooth operations in key transportation hubs.

What is the difference between Terminal Railroad vs Switcher Operator?

AspectTerminal RailroadSwitcher Operator
CertificationsRailroad certifications, safety trainingRailroad certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, freight terminalsRail yards, industrial sites
Employer & IndustryRailroads, freight companiesRailroads, freight companies
Job FocusManaging freight movement within terminalsMoving railcars within yards

Both Terminal Railroad workers and Switcher Operators work in rail yards and require similar certifications. However, Terminal Railroad roles often involve overseeing freight operations across larger terminal areas, while Switcher Operators focus on moving railcars within specific yard sections. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the rail industry.

More about Terminal Railroad jobs
What cities are hiring for Terminal Railroad jobs? Cities with the most Terminal Railroad job openings:
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Terminal Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Terminal Railroad job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $71,911 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Conductor/Switchman

Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis

Venice, IL • On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Are you interested in pursuing a career in the railroad industry without the extended time away from home? The Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis may be the perfect fit for you! We offer competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and attractive retirement plans comparable to many leading railroads across the nation.

We are seeking enthusiastic individuals who thrive in an outdoor working environment, particularly in the vibrant Metro East and downtown St. Louis areas. This opportunity is not just a job; it's a fulfilling career that comes with excellent pay and benefits designed to support both you and your family. Additionally, our retirement plan ensures you can look forward to a secure future.

Join us at the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis, where you can build a rewarding career while staying close to home.


Job Summary

This position is responsible for the safe switching of railcars and movement of trains across the TRRA.


Primary Activities and Responsibilities

  • Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
  • Review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters
  • Inspect condition of trains and equipment
  • Observe track conditions for unsafe conditions
  • Receive and transmit information by radio and telephone
  • Read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists
  • Climb on and off moving and stationary equipment, ride on moving cars by hanging on grab irons or ladders, remove and replace broken knuckles, align drawbars.
  • Spot cars for loading and unloading at customer locations.
  • Couple and uncouple cars, apply and release handbrakes, operate switches and derails.
  • Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety,
  • Operate locomotive equipment through the use of remote control device.
  • Comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems
  • Judge and control the speed and clearance distance of cars.
  • Comply with company and federal safety rules, policies and procedures to include wearing required safety/protective equipment, responding to safety concerns and taking appropriate action.
  • Complete annual training and pass safety operating rules examination.
  • Advance to engineer positions when required, in accordance with collective bargaining agreement.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School diploma /GED
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Able to read, write and communicate in English.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Outside work experience
  • Experience working on an on-call basis
  • Experience working varying shift schedules

Basic Competencies

  • Verbal comprehension (Understand oral and written communications-both general and technical)
  • Communication skills (provide clear instructions/directions)
  • Reasoning skills (problem solving and trouble shooting skills)

Physical Requirements

  • Lift and carry up to 90 pounds.
  • Push/Pull up to 120 pounds
  • Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection.
  • Stooping/bending/kneeling/crouching/balancing/climbing/holding/grasping/turning and pulling.
  • Working/walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Sitting/standing/walking for extended periods of time.
  • Work in cramped, confined, enclosed or awkward places.
  • Ride on the outside of rail equipment for long periods of time.
  • Must meet color vision requirements as described in FRA Regulations

Environmental Conditions

Work outside in all weather conditions, on uneven surfaces, around loud noise and fumes and at elevated heights.


Shifts/Hours

Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime, and various shift work, including on-call 7 days a week, 24 hours per day and short rest between assignments in accordance with the hours of service regulation. Must be able to report to work safely with two-hour notice. Work hours are based on seniority new hires will work primarily nights, weekends and holidays.


Pay Rate

Entry Rate Based on Collective Bargaining Agreement


Training

Company paid on the job training (which may require travel) provided.


Probationary Period

60 Days


Union Membership

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, union membership and monthly dues are required.


United Transportation Union


Employment Conditions

  • TRRA is a drug-free company and employees will be subject to random testing for drugs and/or alcohol
  • Must pass a background screening
  • May require a post-offer medical examination, including drug and physical capabilities test

Benefits

  • Medical, prescription, vision and dental insurance
  • Life insurance
  • 401k Plan
  • Railroad Retirement
  • Paid vacations and holidays

Closing Statement

The foregoing is meant as a general description of the essential functions of the relevant position and is not meant to be read or interpreted in a manner contrary to the existing collective bargaining agreement.

TRRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer that supports diversity in the workplace.