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Trainmaster Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Trainmaster

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

The Trainmaster will deliver efficient movement of traffic within the road territory and yard-terminal by developing, coordinating and ensuring the daily yard-terminal/road operating plan is ...

Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with train crew * Coordinate execution of railcar switch list * Communicate with other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio ...

Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with train crew * Coordinate execution of railcar switch list * Communicate with other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio ...

Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with train crew * Coordinate execution of railcar switch list * Communicate with other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio ...

Trainmaster information

See Illinois salary details

$36.3K

$69.9K

$80.9K

How much do trainmaster jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainmaster in Illinois is $69,872.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,300.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainmaster?

A Trainmaster is a railroad professional responsible for overseeing train operations, crew management, and ensuring safety and efficiency on the rail network. They coordinate train movements, enforce company policies, and respond to operational challenges. Trainmasters work closely with engineers, conductors, and dispatchers to maintain schedules and compliance with regulations. The role requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of railroad procedures.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a trainmaster?

A Trainmaster's daily responsibilities include overseeing train operations within assigned territories, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and coordinating with conductors, engineers, and yard personnel to maintain efficient schedules. They handle incident investigations, manage crew assignments, and monitor real-time train movements to respond to emergencies or delays. Trainmasters often conduct safety briefings and inspections, report operational issues to management, and work closely with both field staff and office teams. This role requires a balance of administrative duties and on-site supervision to maintain the smooth flow of rail operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the trainmaster position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainmaster, you need in-depth railroad operations experience, knowledge of federal safety regulations, and completion of relevant industry training or certifications. Familiarity with dispatching systems, track inspection protocols, incident reporting software, and operating rules manuals is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for coordinating crews and resolving operational challenges. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient train movements and managing complex rail logistics.

How much money does a trainmaster make?

A trainmaster typically earns between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the railroad company. They oversee train operations, safety protocols, and crew management, often working in a supervisory role that requires knowledge of railway regulations and communication skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Trainmaster jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Trainmaster jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Trainmaster jobs in Illinois?

For Trainmaster jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trainmaster jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainmaster jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Trainmaster jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Trainmaster job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Trainmaster jobs in IL?

For Trainmaster jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Trainmaster job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,872 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

$95K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

TRAINMASTER
SALARY: Full-Time | $95,000 - $110,000 Annually
DEPARTMENT: Transportation LOCATION: Silvis, IL
BASIC FUNCTION:
To direct and coordinate railroad operations in a safe, efficient and economical manner. This includes breaking up trains, classification of cars, making up trains for movement, switching cars to and from local industries, delivery of cars to and from interchange points, and related work. Assignments are performed according to rules and regulations required by IAIS, other railroads, and federal, state, and local government. Performs required number of efficiency tests to monitor performance of train crews for compliance of operating rules, safety rules, bulletins, special instructions, and other rules and regulations of IAIS, other railroads, and federal, state and local governments. Serve in the capacity of Trainmaster at all IAIS locations as directed.
REPORTS TO: Silvis Terminal Superintendent
SUPERVISES: All T & E employees
ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
01. Provides leadership in all Transportation Department activities.
02. Supervises T & E employees in the safe and successful performance of their duties
03. Coordinates and plans daily train and switching operations with Dispatchers and other Trainmasters consistent with safety and efficiency.
04. Collaborates with Dispatchers to monitor and adjust operations to ensure execution to plan interfacing with other employees.
05. Conducts operations/efficiency tests and safety meetings.
06. Ensures continuous focus on improvement in fuel consumption, operating efficiencies and reduction in freight damage through the training and education of crews on the most progressive train handling procedures.
07. Ensures compliance with IAISRR's equal employment policies, safety and operating rules, schedule agreements and Government regulations.
08. Interfaces with IAISRR internal departments, IAISRR customers, and connecting Carriers to continually meet customer expectations.
09. Responsible for controlling costs to meet budget goals.
10. Responsible for investigating and developing facts In connection with personal Injuries, derailments, and rule violations by T&E employees. Recommends corrective action.
11. Responsible for prompt reporting to all concerned problems which may affect the safe operation of trains (such as accidents, derailments, floods, washouts, etc.).
12. Follows company and government safety procedures, be alert, use common sense, take necessary precautions (e.g., wearing/using protective clothes and equipment), and maintain an overall level of safety awareness when operating in work environment. Keeps abreast of current changes in operating rules and practices.
13. Responsible for performing duties and working hours as scheduled, including overtime, holidays, nights and weekends. Will be required to be on call 24 hours per day with emergency response availability required.
14. Relieves all Trainmasters within territory as required.
15. Demonstrates behavior consistent with Iowa Interstate Railroad Purpose and Values.
16. Performs other miscellaneous duties as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Education, Licenses/Certifications and Work Experience:
High school diploma or equivalent. Must have previous railroad experience; experience as a yardmaster, assistant trainmaster, trainmaster or road foreman experience is a plus. Must possess and maintain a current and valid driver's license, be insurable under IAIS's commercial auto policy throughout IAIS employment. Minimum of two years as a qualified locomotive engineer and/or conductor preferred. Broad knowledge of General Code of Operating Rules, Track Warrants, Timetables, Safety Rules, CFR 217/218 & 240/242, applicable labor agreements, etc., required.
Skills, Knowledge, Abilities and Mental Requirements:
• Working knowledge with budget preparation, costs analysis and costs evaluations.
• Good supervisory and leadership skills are needed to direct work force.
• General office equipment skills, including Microsoft PC based computing. Ability to access, input, and retrieve information from a computer for spreadsheets, word processing, e-mail and data base information.
• Must be able to work well under pressure. Proven ability to control emotions and take responsibility for actions.
• Must be able to professionally express ideas clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
• Proven ability to listen carefully and actively and keep others informed.
• Be able to inspire others to excel and demonstrate initiative and decisiveness.
• Proven ability to provide direct and constructive feedback to others.
• Ability to develop employee's skills and act as a role model for others.
• Ability to be flexible and accept change, react willingly, appropriately and in a timely manner.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude.
• Ability to read, understand, and abide by the General Code of Operating Rules.
• Must be able to abide by Federal Railroad Administration parts 217/218/219 & 240/242 and other regulations as required by IAIS, other railroads, and federal, state and local governments.
Physical Requirements: Constant (67-100%) cognitive decision making; speaking clearly and concisely either in person or telephone, and/or radio communication; Frequent (34-66%) viewing close visual work. Occasional (10-33%) stooping, kneeling and bending. May be stressful at times due to interruptions and multiple job duties.
Must possess at least 20/40 in each eye with or without corrective lenses. Must be able to recognize and distinguish colors displayed by signals, signs, etc. Must possess an average hearing threshold (in the better ear) of 40 decibels at 500 HZ and 2000 H, aided or unaided.
Working Conditions: Position involves working in an office setting and work out-of-doors which exposes the individual to the following conditions:
• Upwards of 50% travel will be required
• weather (including extreme cold and/or extreme heat for periods of more than one hour)
• noise (from diesel engines, air brake equipment, sanders, horns, radios)
• dust, irritants, odors, fumes, fuel, etc.
The job requires the individual to follow IAIS and federal standard safety procedures, be alert, and take necessary precautions (e.g., wearing/using protective clothes and equipment) to avoid possible injuries that may result from, but not limited to:
• working on or around moving equipment
• walking on uneven ground and/or slippery ground
• hazardous materials transported by the railroad
• prolonged periods of continuous work time
• mounting and dismounting equipment
• passing vehicles (trains, trucks, cars, etc.) while operating or walking to the train equipment
• train derailments
• assembling train consists
• connecting air hoses
• walking the catwalk
• examining the engine fueling component operation
The statements stated in this job description reflect the general details as necessary to describe the basic function, essential job duties/responsibilities, job requirements, physical and mental requirements, and working conditions typically required, and should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of the job. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned; including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.
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.