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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 ...

Rail Management Services

Rail Terminal Operator

Wall, PA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Join Our Team as a Rail Terminal Operator - Pittsburgh, PA. Pacific Rail Services is hiring ... railroad. Great fit for candidates with experience in warehouse work, truck driving (CDL or non ...

Rail Management Services

Rail Terminal Conductor

Sandy, UT · On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

Terminal Switching Services is looking for a Conductor to join our team working at the Union ... You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship ...

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Terminal Railroad information

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$36K

$71.9K

$111K

How much do terminal railroad jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 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 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.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired as a terminal railroad worker can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications such as safety training or operating licenses. The hiring process may include background checks, interviews, and assessments of skills related to rail operations and safety protocols.

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.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

In the context of a terminal railroad, high-paying roles such as senior management, project engineers, or specialized safety inspectors can sometimes earn around $2,000 per day, especially with overtime or bonuses. These positions typically require extensive experience, relevant certifications, and often involve working in a demanding environment. Most operational railroad jobs pay hourly wages, but executive or consulting roles may reach this level of daily compensation.

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 is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically executive positions such as railroad presidents or chief operating officers, with salaries often exceeding six figures annually. Senior management roles require extensive industry experience, leadership skills, and often a background in transportation or engineering.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the transportation and logistics sector, senior roles such as terminal railroad executives, operations managers, and certain specialized engineering positions can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve overseeing large-scale operations or infrastructure projects.

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.
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Terminal Railroad jobs near you
Terminal Rail Technician - Midland, NC

Terminal Rail Technician - Midland, NC

Plastic Express

Midland, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Plastic Express rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company Overview
Come join a winning Team! Since 1970 Plastic Express has met the bulk trucking, bulk terminal, packaging, and warehousing needs of the plastics industry. Our strategic locations, modern systems, and dedicated employees allow us to provide custom tailored logistical solutions to fulfill the most challenging needs of our customers. Plastic Express operates from 22 full-service facilities, more than 40 bulk terminals, and 52 railcar terminals offering more than 8,500 railcar spots across the country. We are located near 9 major ports in the U.S. and rely heavily on our rail infrastructure to handle imports /exports as well as regional distribution. At many of the Plastic Express sites, we also handle some non-plastic commodities, which include; paper rolls, steel, building materials and other dry bulk materials. Plastic Express owns and operates roughly 250 trucks, with approximately 250 trailers performing full bulk truck distribution business. Plastic Express is headquartered in Houston, TX and has over 600 employees nationwide. Our goal has always been to exceed our customer's expectations, and our can do-attitude is what differentiates us from the competition.
Plastic Express employees have always been our key to success and total customer satisfaction. We are always looking for dependable & talented business professionals that will help us to grow and to continue our "Can Do" tradition.
Essential Functions:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Job Summary:
With reporting responsibilities to the AVP of Rail Operations or designee, this position is directly responsible for performing essential rail functions in a safety sensitive and production environment. The Terminal Rail Tech will maintain property & equipment preservation at each location including grounds keeping. This position may require pulling samples of material, documenting and storing them properly. Inspecting all inbound and outbound railcars daily while reporting major issues immediately. The Terminal Rail Tech must be able to work with minimal supervision and be self-motivated to perform all job tasks as outlined below
Essential Functions/Duties:
  • Inventory data entry
  • Coverage for other sites/employees
  • Check-in trans-load truck(s) & scale as needed - Site Specific
  • Keep accurate records of daily spreadsheets - Site Specific
  • Inbound Rail Car Sampling
  • Pledge immediate material loss clean up and proper disposal
  • Operate with company issued PPE at all times
  • Proper use of company issued electronic devices ie; radios, tablets, printers, etc.
  • Proper use of company issued cell phone - Site Specific
Qualifications:
Required Education and Experience
  • At least 21 years old
  • Must read, write, and speak English fluently
  • Must have basic computer skills
  • Must be familiar with the use of Email, Microsoft Word & Microsoft Excel
  • Must have reliable means of transportation
  • Must be able and comfortable working outside in all weather conditions as needed
  • Must be able to walk, bend, reach, push, pull, stoop, squat, and climb
  • Railcar experience is a plus
  • Strong attention to detail is necessary
  • Minimum education required is a high school diploma or equivalent
Physical Demands:
  • Must be able to perform physical labor such as; lifting up to 55 lbs., moving up to 250 pounds, climbing ladders, and working with hand tools.
  • Must be able use fingers, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk and/or hear.
  • Employee must possess vision abilities required by this job function to include; close visual confirmation of finely printed documents, have distance vision to safely and correctly identify objects and or markings.
  • Must have peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to focus on subjects or objects at any safe working distance.
Licenses/Certificates:
  • Rail King certification, preferred
Skills:
  • Proven interpersonal skills; relationship development and management
  • Ability to work independently and as part of team
  • Ability to recognize onsite risk factors and take appropriate action with firmness and tact
  • Must have excellent interpersonal, communications, and organizational skills.
  • Must be multi-task oriented with the ability to handle many activities simultaneously.
  • Must have the ability to think independently and make decisions that are in the company's best interest.
Work Environment:
Expected to performing essential rail functions in a safety sensitive and production environment in and around a warehouse and railyard.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Must be able to work occasional long hours, coverage for other full-time employees, assist other sites as needed, and occasionally work weekends and holidays as needed. Scheduled Shift Hours are from 3am - 11:30am.
Travel:
Little to no travel is expected for this position.
Benefits and Perks:
  • Family health benefit packages - after 90 days
  • Vacation pay - after 90 days
  • Holiday pay - after 90 days
  • Company matching 401k retirement program - after 90 days
Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted and/or changed at any time at the discretion of management.
In line with Plastic Express' Environmental Promise, the hired individual is expected to enthusiastically support all facets of Operation Clean Sweep; specifically, making a conscious effort to prevent pellet, flake and powder loss into the environment and ensure any spills are swiftly and effectively cleaned up.
If you have an interest in working at Plastic Express, please forward your resume including a brief work history.

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