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Watco Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Track Laborer - Clare, MI

Clare, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary The Track Laborer will be required to safely and efficiently inspect, repair, and maintain the railroad track infrastructure to ...

Track Laborer - Wausau, WI

Wausau, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary The Track Laborer will be required to safely and efficiently inspect, repair, and maintain the railroad track infrastructure to ...

Track Laborer - Owasso, OK

Owasso, OK · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary The Track Laborer will be required to safely and efficiently inspect, repair, and maintain the railroad track infrastructure to ...

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary Responsible for rail car inspection, maintenance and repairs in accordance with FRA and AAR regulations. Must re-rail cars and ...

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Conductor - Cadillac, MI

Cadillac, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Track Laborer - Tuscaloosa, AL

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary The Track Laborer will be required to safely and efficiently inspect, repair, and maintain the railroad track infrastructure to ...

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service for our customers. This is a ...

Conductor - Toledo, OH

Toledo, OH · On-site

$22.25 - $29/hr

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Conductor - Twin Falls, ID

Twin Falls, ID · On-site

$20.75 - $27/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary Starting Hourly Pay Rate: $24.00 Railcar Repairman are responsible for rail car inspection, maintenance and repairs in accordance ...

Conductor - Monahans, TX

Monahans, TX · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary Starting Hourly Pay Rate: $24.00 Railcar Repairman are responsible for rail car inspection, maintenance and repairs in accordance ...

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary Responsible for rail car inspection, maintenance and repairs in accordance with FRA and AAR regulations. Must re-rail cars and ...

Posted today

... Watco University • Career advancement opportunities Job Summary Supervises and coordinates activities of train crew engaged in switching railroad cars within rail yard, industrial plant, or similar ...

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Watco Railroad information

Is Watco a good company to work for?

Watco Railroad is a transportation company that offers jobs in rail operations, maintenance, and logistics. Employee experiences vary, but the company provides training and safety protocols typical of the industry, with opportunities for career advancement in rail and transportation roles.

What is the difference between Watco Railroad vs Railcar Maintenance Technician?

AspectWatco RailroadRailcar Maintenance Technician
Primary RoleOperate and manage freight rail services, oversee train movementsInspect, repair, and maintain railcars and equipment
Required CertificationsRailroad Operating Authority, safety trainingRailcar repair certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, on-train operations, tracksideRepair shops, rail yards, on-site maintenance
Industry UsageFreight transportation, logisticsRailcar repair and maintenance companies

While Watco Railroad focuses on operating freight trains and managing rail services, Railcar Maintenance Technicians specialize in inspecting and repairing railcars. Both roles require safety certifications and work in rail-related environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly within the rail industry.

Who owns Watco Railroad?

Watco Railroad is owned by Watco Companies, LLC, a privately held transportation and logistics company. It operates as a subsidiary of Watco, which manages various shortline and regional railroads across the United States.

How much does Watco pay?

Watco Railroad employees' pay varies depending on the position, experience, and location. Entry-level roles such as track laborers typically start around minimum wage, while skilled positions like engineers or managers can earn higher salaries, often in the range of $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Compensation may also include benefits and opportunities for overtime.

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

To thrive as a Watco Railroad employee, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety protocols, and relevant mechanical skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with industry-standard equipment, track inspection tools, and safety management systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient rail operations. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining operational safety, meeting regulatory standards, and ensuring reliable rail service.

Does Watco pay into railroad retirement?

Employees at Watco Railroad typically pay into the Railroad Retirement Board system, which provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits for railroad workers. Railroad retirement contributions are generally deducted from payroll, similar to Social Security taxes for other workers. This system is specific to railroad employees and is separate from standard Social Security programs.

What are some typical challenges faced by employees working on a Watco Railroad operations team?

Employees on a Watco Railroad operations team often face challenges such as maintaining safety standards in dynamic environments, working irregular hours including nights and weekends, and adapting quickly to schedule changes due to weather or freight demands. Collaboration is key, as team members must communicate effectively with engineers, conductors, and dispatchers to ensure smooth rail operations. Additionally, handling heavy equipment and adhering to federal regulations require attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills.

What is a Watco Railroad employee?

A Watco Railroad employee works for Watco Companies, a transportation service company that operates short line railroads, terminals, and mechanical services across North America. These employees may serve in roles such as train conductors, engineers, track maintenance workers, or operations managers. Their main responsibilities include ensuring the safe and efficient movement of freight, maintaining rail infrastructure, and supporting customer logistics needs. Watco emphasizes safety, teamwork, and customer service in all its operations. Employees often receive specialized training depending on their specific job function.
More about Watco Railroad jobs
What cities are hiring for Watco Railroad jobs? Cities with the most Watco Railroad job openings:
What states have the most Watco Railroad jobs? States with the most job openings for Watco Railroad jobs include:
Infographic showing various Watco Railroad job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Track Laborer - Clare, MI

Track Laborer - Clare, MI

Watco

Clare, MI • On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Watco rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

250th of 353 rated logistics


Job description

Track Laborer - Clare, MI
Job Location: Clare, MI
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
The Track Laborer will be required to safely and efficiently inspect, repair, and maintain the railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service for our customers. This is a manual labor position, which requires that the individual becomes proficient in the following skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Assist with inspecting, loading & unloading, distribution and installation of rail, rail components, cross ties, switch ties, ballasts, and other track materials
• Assist with inspecting, grinding, fabrication and repair of rail and track components
• Assist with inspection, maintenance, repair and construction of track turnouts, switch stands, and track infrastructure
• Assist with inspection, construction, demolition, and maintenance of track surface structure, gauge, tie removal and disposal, tie replacement and roadbed rehabilitation
• Inspect, protect, construct, maintain, and repair road crossings, bridges, culverts and tunnels, facilities, snow fences, signs and equipment
• Cut and dispose of vegetation using tools, equipment and manual labor
• Clean ice, snow, dirt and debris from switches
• Remove snow, ice or other foreign materials from track infrastructure
• Accurate and timely reporting as required
• Read and accurately interpret company documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and federal and state regulations
• Communicate professionally and effectively
• Learn, understand and apply a comprehensive understanding of track authority
• Comply with performance metrics measurements and deadlines
• Practice safe work habits and follow company and industry policies, procedures and regulations
• Respond promptly to any accident, incident or emergency call
• Read gauges, precision measuring instruments, schematics and maintenance manuals 100% of the time
• Operate equipment such as backhoe and track hoe
• Perform other duties as assigned or required
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position.
• Must possess a valid driver's license
• Class A CDL preferred
Must be able to pass the training courses below:
• Track Ground School
• Federal Railroad Administration General Code of Operating Rules written test
• Roadway Worker Protection Worker written test
• Fall Protection written test
• Maintenance of Way safety written test
• MSHA/OSHA training and certification (if required on site).
Education
Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent

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