ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Trainee Rail Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amrize

Rail Brakeman

Harpers Ferry, WV · On-site

The Rail Brakeman is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient movement, positioning ... Experience operating heavy equipment such as loaders, excavators, dozers, or other material ...

METRO

Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

Basic Function The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to be become a full-time LRT Operator. Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee ...

METRO

Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

Houston, TX

Basic Function The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to be become a full-time LRT Operator. Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsRail Excavator Operator JobsTrainee Rail Excavator Operator Jobs

Trainee Rail Excavator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

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

As of Aug 10, 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?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Excavator Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator - Minot, ND

R J Corman Railroad Group

Underwood, ND • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Who We Are:
R.J. Corman Railroad Services is a full-service railroad construction, maintenance-of-way and emergency response company with 17 divisions strategically located across the nation.
What You'll Do:
  • Transporting, operating, and servicing heavy equipment used in clearing railroad derailments
  • Material handling of heavy steel chains, blocks and steel cables, and other devices.
  • Practice safe working habits and ensure proper PPE is being used
  • Safely drive, operate, and maintain CDL-A required vehicles and equipment
  • Maintenance, cleaning, and set-up of equipment requiring use of small and large tools including cutting torch and welding.
  • Digging, hammering, and other physical types of work with various tools
  • Follow DOT regulations, ensuring proper permits and driving regulations are followed
  • Be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions
  • Communicate with team and supervisor throughout the job process
  • Other duties as assigned

Why Work for R.J. Corman?
  • Operate heavy or specialized equipment (i.e. Sideboom, Track Loader, Excavator, Vac Truck, Grapple Truck, etc.)
  • Guaranteed 40 hours per week with high potential for overtime
  • Hotel and travel expenses paid for
  • Company provided PPE
  • On the job training provided and advancement opportunities

What You'll Need:
  • Ability to work on call 24/7 and travel frequently to job sites
  • Must live within 45 minutes of the R. J. Corman shop
  • Must pass background, drug screen, and physical capacity test
  • Valid CDL-A with no restrictions with manual endorsement and DOT medical card highly preferred.
  • Lifting 100 lbs. maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects up to 50 lbs.
  • Comfortable with working at heights over 25 feet on railroad cars; on bridges, over water, or in water.
  • Love working outside!

Benefits:
R.J. Corman Railroad Group, LLC is committed to providing its full-time employees and their families with quality benefits. R.J. Corman offers the following benefits:
Full-Time Team Members:
  • Immediate Eligibility Starting Day One of Employment:
    • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
    • PTO (Paid Time Off) Accrual
    • 8 Paid Holidays Per Year
      • Veteran's Day is a Paid Holiday for US Veterans
    • Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance
    • Voluntary Short and Long-Term Disability
    • Voluntary Accident Insurance
  • FSA and HSA Options
  • 401K Employer Match
  • Paid Maternity Leave
  • Group Life Insurance

All Team Members:
  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Referral Bonuses
  • Employee Discounts from Various Suppliers
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Annual Boot Voucher
  • Company Provided PPE
  • Prescription Safety Glasses Allowance

R.J. Corman Railroad is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that is committed to a safe and drug-free workplace. R. J. Corman performs pre-employment criminal background checks and substance abuse testing, which includes a urine drug test to detect the presence of illegal drugs. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping R. J. Corman a safe and drug-free company.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply