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Trainee Rail Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cranemasters

Excavator/Operator - CDL A

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$23.50 - $31/hr

... L Drivers/Operators/Laborers to transport equipment and support field operations including ... restoring and maintaining railroad operations safely and efficiently. This is a physically ...

Cranemasters

Excavator/Operator - CDL A

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$23.50 - $31/hr

... L Drivers/Operators/Laborers to transport equipment and support field operations including ... restoring and maintaining railroad operations safely and efficiently. This is a physically ...

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Trainee Rail Excavator Operator information

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$41

How much do trainee rail excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee rail excavator operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee Rail Excavator Operators during their initial months on the job?

As a Trainee Rail Excavator Operator, one of the main challenges is mastering the safe operation of heavy machinery within the unique constraints of the rail environment, where space can be limited and strict safety protocols must be followed at all times. Adapting to working alongside experienced operators and maintenance crews while learning to interpret rail signals and work schedules can also be demanding. Additionally, trainees may need to quickly become familiar with rail-specific machinery attachments and develop strong communication skills to effectively coordinate with site supervisors and other team members.

What is the difference between Trainee Rail Excavator Operator vs Rail Excavator Operator?

AspectTrainee Rail Excavator OperatorRail Excavator Operator
CertificationsBasic machinery operation, safety trainingAdvanced operation, certification often required
ExperienceEntry-level, on-the-job trainingSeveral years of experience
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, rail yardsActive rail lines, construction zones
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with excavation tasks under supervisionPerforming excavation independently

The main difference is that a Trainee Rail Excavator Operator is in training and gaining experience, while a Rail Excavator Operator is fully qualified and experienced in operating rail excavation machinery independently.

What does a Trainee Rail Excavator Operator do?

A Trainee Rail Excavator Operator learns how to safely and efficiently operate excavators on or near railway tracks. Their duties include assisting with track maintenance, loading and unloading materials, and following strict safety protocols. Under supervision, trainees gain practical experience, learn to handle specialized rail equipment, and ensure work is completed according to railway regulations. This role is vital for maintaining and improving rail infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Rail Excavator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Rail Excavator Operator, you need a basic understanding of construction principles, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional training or certifications in heavy machinery operation often required. Familiarity with rail-specific excavators, safety protocols, and systems such as Network Rail Sentinel Cards or other railway safety certifications is important. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team set individuals apart in this role. These skills ensure safe, precise, and efficient operation in a hazardous rail environment, minimizing risks and supporting project success.
More about Trainee Rail Excavator Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Rail Excavator Operator jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Rail Excavator Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Excavator Operator jobs? The most popular types of Rail Excavator Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Rail Excavator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Rail Excavator Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Rail Excavator Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Rail Excavator Operator jobs are:
Trainee Rail Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Rail Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 84% Physical, and 16% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Railroad Hi-Rail Excavator Operator- CDL A

Succession Planning for Railroads Investing in the Next Generation LLC

Dallas, GA • Remote

$28 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and experienced CDL A Hi-Rail Excavator Operator to join our team. The successful candidate will operate heavy machinery, including excavators, to perform railroad track construction tasks such as digging, grading, trenching, and earthmoving. The role also requires driving and transporting equipment to job sites, ensuring that all equipment is maintained in top working condition.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate an excavator and heavy equipment to safely and efficiently complete earth-moving tasks including digging, grading, trenching, and site preparation.
  • Transport and haul construction materials, equipment, and machinery using a Class A CDL vehicle.
  • Maintain and inspect machinery before, during, and after use to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • Follow safety protocols and regulations while operating equipment and handling materials.
  • Collaborate with the construction team to coordinate site activities and ensure work is completed according to plans and specifications.
  • Assist with other construction-related tasks as needed, including site clean-up, material handling, and other equipment operation.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on equipment, reporting any mechanical issues to the supervisor.
  • Maintain accurate records of equipment usage, hours worked, and job site activities.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience in railroad construction.
  • Certification in excavation and heavy equipment operation.
Requirements
  • Valid CDL Class A driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Proven experience operating excavators, backhoes, and other heavy machinery.
  • Ability to safely operate and maintain heavy equipment in a variety of conditions.
  • Strong knowledge of construction safety protocols and regulations.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and construction plans.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Physical ability to work in outdoor, often strenuous conditions.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Per diem
Truck Allowance - if needed
Equal Employment Opportunity 
We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.