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Watco

LTL Operations Manager - Lowell, AR

Lowell, AR

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 ...

Watco

Dispatcher - Wichita, KS

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20/hr

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 ...

Watco

Liquid Transload Operator - Sauget, IL

Sauget, IL

$20 - $25/hr

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 ...

Watco

Railcar Repairman - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL · On-site

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 ...

Watco

Track Laborer - Plankinton, SD

Plankinton, SD · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

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 ...

Watco

Track Laborer - Horicon, WI

Horicon, WI

$23/hr

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 ...

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$36.3K

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How much do watco jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for watco in the United States is $36,260.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,500.00 and $34,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Watco vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectWatcoRailroad Conductor
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly freight handling certificationsConductor certification, safety training, railroad-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, transportation hubs, rail yardsOn trains, rail yards, and stations
Employer & Industry UsageLogistics, transportation companies, short-line railroadsMajor railroads, freight and passenger rail services

Watco and Railroad Conductors both work within the transportation industry, focusing on rail operations. While Watco employees may handle logistics and rail yard tasks, Railroad Conductors primarily oversee train operations and safety on the railcars. Both roles require safety certifications and industry-specific knowledge, but Conductors typically need specialized railroad licenses. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the rail industry.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working in operations at Watco, and how can they be addressed?

Employees in operations roles at Watco often face challenges such as adapting to changing schedules, working outdoors in various weather conditions, and maintaining safety standards in fast-paced environments. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as daily tasks often involve coordinating with train crews, maintenance staff, and dispatchers. To address these challenges, Watco provides ongoing safety training, encourages a strong safety culture, and supports employees with clear guidelines and resources to help them succeed in dynamic rail and logistics settings.

What is Watco and what do they do?

Watco is a transportation and logistics company that primarily operates short line railroads, as well as providing terminal and port services, mechanical services, and supply chain solutions. Founded in 1983, Watco serves a variety of industries including agriculture, energy, and manufacturing. The company focuses on moving and handling freight efficiently across North America and offers customized logistics solutions to meet customer needs.

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

To thrive at Watco, employees typically need a strong understanding of logistics, transportation operations, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant industry experience or technical training. Familiarity with transportation management systems, safety protocols, and equipment operation certifications (such as forklift or railroad certifications) is commonly required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help individuals adapt to dynamic environments and ensure smooth operations. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and high service standards in Watco’s transportation and logistics services.
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Watco jobs near you
Friction Crane Operator - Memphis, TN

Friction Crane Operator - Memphis, TN

Watco

Memphis, TN

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Watco rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 337 rated logistics

Job description

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
Hourly Pay Rate: Depending on experience
Schedule: Day Shift M-F | Weekends and OT as needed
This position operates a Lattice Boom Cable Crane. Friction Crane Experience is required. Our Memphis location has an American 999 and a Manitowoc 3900.

Job Summary

The Crane Operator position is a mid-level, hourly position. As a Crane Operator you will be joining a well-established Team at a growing company where you will operate an overhead crane in order to move customer product from the port and throughout the terminal. The Crane Operator will also perform other general labor and deck hand duties as needed; all with the with highest value placed on the safety of themselves and their fellow team members.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Read and understand all standard operating procedures as well as safety requirements for the role
• Participate in job and safety briefings to ensure understanding of the proper and safe way to complete all tasks assigned
• Safely and properly operate the crane to move customer product throughout the terminal- this may require using various types of cranes to unload and load product from and to barges, railcars, trucks or for storage at the facility. 
• Safely board docks, boats, and barges to assist with deck hand work as needed- tasks may include, but are not limited to pulling lines, tying off barges, assisting boat pilots with docking and launch, climbing ladders, opening lids, and attaching cables
Complete all general labor duties assigned around the terminal including general maintenance and upkeep 
Actively participate in activities that support a culture of safety while at work
• Participate in all assigned team members training to ensure knowledge and comprehension of the skills needed to perform your role
• Use attention to detail when completing all applicable documentation and recordkeeping for your role and assigned tasks. Participate in routine review of Standard Operating Procedures

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. 

• Ability to work outside the majority of the time and withstand extreme weather conditions
• Flexibility required; ability to work days, nights, and weekends when necessary
• Perform all work in compliance with Company standards, procedures, and regulatory requirements
• Working knowledge of Watco Safety Principles and commitment to Watco Foundation Principles
• Follow written and verbal directions to complete assigned tasks on schedule
• Read, write, and communicate in English & understand basic math
• Must be able to work with a team, take direction and follow work rules, as well as take on additional job responsibilities as needed or assigned
• Learn from directions, observations, mistakes and apply procedures using good judgment
• Must maintain regular, dependable attendance and a high level of performance
• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred 

Education
High School or GED equivalent

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