That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... Brake Tests, Railroad Main Track Operating Methods (Block Signal Systems, Track Warrants, etc ...
8 Watco Brake Operator Jobs Hiring Near You
That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... Brake Tests, Railroad Main Track Operating Methods (Block Signal Systems, Track Warrants, etc ...
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... Brake Tests, Railroad Main Track Operating Methods (Block Signal Systems, Track Warrants, etc ...
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... Brake Tests, Railroad Main Track Operating Methods (Block Signal Systems, Track Warrants, etc ...
Switchman - Gillette, WY
Gillette, WY · On-site
$20/hr
That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Switchman - Gillette, WY
Gillette, WY · On-site
$20/hr
That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Switchman - Sauget / Cahokia, IL
Sauget, IL · On-site
$22/hr
That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Switchman - Sauget / Cahokia, IL
Sauget, IL · On-site
$22/hr
That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Switchman - Sheridan, WY
Sheridan, WY · On-site
$21/hr
That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Switchman - Sheridan, WY
Sheridan, WY · On-site
$21/hr
That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what ... brake wheel or ratchet-type brake to apply and release handbrakes • Observe track to detect ...
Watco Jobs Information
What is it like to work at Watco?
Watco is a company that values a collaborative and customer-focused work environment, prioritizing teamwork and open communication among its employees.
As a leading provider of rail services and logistics solutions, Watco operates a diverse range of teams, including rail operations, maintenance, and customer support, with a focus on delivering safe and efficient services to its clients. The company's mission is to provide exceptional service and support to its customers, while also promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
Working at Watco may appeal to individuals who are passionate about the rail industry and are looking for a dynamic and challenging work environment that offers opportunities for professional growth and development, as well as a chance to be part of a company that prioritizes safety and customer satisfaction.
As a leading provider of rail services and logistics solutions, Watco operates a diverse range of teams, including rail operations, maintenance, and customer support, with a focus on delivering safe and efficient services to its clients. The company's mission is to provide exceptional service and support to its customers, while also promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
Working at Watco may appeal to individuals who are passionate about the rail industry and are looking for a dynamic and challenging work environment that offers opportunities for professional growth and development, as well as a chance to be part of a company that prioritizes safety and customer satisfaction.
What makes Watco an attractive place to work?
Watco is a leading provider of rail services and logistics solutions, with a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction in the North American rail industry. The company offers a collaborative and dynamic work environment, with opportunities for innovation, professional growth, and development through training and mentorship programs. Joining Watco can provide individuals with a chance to contribute to the company's mission of delivering exceptional service and making a meaningful impact in the rail industry.
Do workers at Watco get paid breaks?
Yes. Most people get paid breaks.
83% of people say they get paid breaks.
Based on data from 40 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
83% of people say they get paid breaks.
Based on data from 40 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Does Watco pay people when they’re sick?
Sometimes. Only some people get paid when they’re sick.
64% of people say they wouldn’t get paid if they were sick but scheduled to work.
Based on data from 50 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
64% of people say they wouldn’t get paid if they were sick but scheduled to work.
Based on data from 50 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
At Watco, are sick days and vacation days separate paid time off?
Only some people have separate paid time off for sick days and vacation.
57% of people say they have to use vacation days when they’re out sick.
Based on data from 30 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and August 2026.
57% of people say they have to use vacation days when they’re out sick.
Based on data from 30 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and August 2026.
Is the health insurance from Watco affordable enough for their workers?
Most people say the health insurance costs are okay.
90% of people say the health insurance costs are okay
Based on data from 40 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between March 2025 and August 2026.
90% of people say the health insurance costs are okay
Based on data from 40 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between March 2025 and August 2026.
Do people get paid time off at Watco?
Most people get paid time off work.
91% of people say they get paid time off.
Based on data from 34 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and August 2026.
91% of people say they get paid time off.
Based on data from 34 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and August 2026.
How far ahead of time do people find out their work schedule?
Most people find out their schedule less than four weeks ahead of time.
Based on data from 21 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between January 2025 and August 2026.
- 57% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts one week or less ahead of time.
- 14% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts two weeks ahead of time.
- 10% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts three weeks ahead of time.
- 19% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts four weeks or more ahead of time.
Based on data from 21 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between January 2025 and August 2026.
Do workers at Watco worry about hours?
Most people don’t worry about getting enough hours.
73% of people report they don’t worry about getting enough hours.
Based on data from 37 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
73% of people report they don’t worry about getting enough hours.
Based on data from 37 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do Watco workers get to choose the shifts they work?
Some people don’t get to choose which shifts they work.
56% report that they don’t have enough control over which shifts they work.
Based on data from 36 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
56% report that they don’t have enough control over which shifts they work.
Based on data from 36 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
How easy is it for Watco workers to change shifts?
Some people find it hard to change shifts.
44% of people report that it’s hard to change shifts if they need to.
Based on data from 27 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
44% of people report that it’s hard to change shifts if they need to.
Based on data from 27 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
How easy is it to get time off at Watco?
Most people find it easy to get time off.
79% of people report it’s easy to get time off.
Based on data from 53 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
79% of people report it’s easy to get time off.
Based on data from 53 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do Watco managers change schedules at the last minute?
Most managers don’t change people’s schedules at the last minute.
79% of people say their manager doesn’t change their shift schedule at the last minute.
Based on data from 38 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
79% of people say their manager doesn’t change their shift schedule at the last minute.
Based on data from 38 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do jobs at Watco spill into time workers aren’t paid for?
Rarely. The job doesn't usually spill into unpaid time.
8% of people report that their job takes up time that they don’t get paid for.
Based on data from 38 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
8% of people report that their job takes up time that they don’t get paid for.
Based on data from 38 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
How easy is it to take sick days at Watco?
Most people find it easy to take sick days.
76% of people report that it’s easy to take time off if they are sick.
Based on data from 49 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
76% of people report that it’s easy to take time off if they are sick.
Based on data from 49 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Is working at Watco good if you’re a parent or caregiver?
Only some parents and caregivers say this is a good place to work.
54% of people who care for a child or other relative report this isn’t a good place to work.
Based on data from 13 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between January 2025 and August 2026.
54% of people who care for a child or other relative report this isn’t a good place to work.
Based on data from 13 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between January 2025 and August 2026.
Do people at Watco feel treated with respect by their managers?
Some people don’t feel treated with respect by their managers.
36% of people say they’re not treated with respect by their managers.
Based on data from 53 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
36% of people say they’re not treated with respect by their managers.
Based on data from 53 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do people at Watco get to take their breaks without interruption?
Most people get breaks without interruption.
75% of people report that they get to take their breaks without interruption.
Based on data from 44 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
75% of people report that they get to take their breaks without interruption.
Based on data from 44 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Is it stressful to work at Watco?
Some people feel stressed here.
67% of people say they often feel stressed at work.
Based on data from 51 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
67% of people say they often feel stressed at work.
Based on data from 51 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do people at Watco enjoy their jobs?
Most people enjoy their job.
70% of people report they enjoy their job.
Based on data from 44 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
70% of people report they enjoy their job.
Based on data from 44 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do people at Watco recommend working with their team?
Only some people recommend working with their team.
56% of people report that they wouldn’t recommend working with their immediate team to a friend.
Based on data from 57 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
56% of people report that they wouldn’t recommend working with their immediate team to a friend.
Based on data from 57 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do people get enough training when they start at Watco?
Most people got enough training when they started.
77% of people report they got enough training when they started working here.
Based on data from 47 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
77% of people report they got enough training when they started working here.
Based on data from 47 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do people get support to advance at Watco?
Only some people are given support to advance their career here.
In the last year, 47% of people report not being given support to advance their career here.
Based on data from 49 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
In the last year, 47% of people report not being given support to advance their career here.
Based on data from 49 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do people think Watco’s headquarters understands what’s happening where they work?
Most people think headquarters doesn’t understand what’s happening where they work.
84% of people think that this employer’s headquarters or owners don’t have a good understanding of what’s really happening where they work.
Based on data from 50 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
84% of people think that this employer’s headquarters or owners don’t have a good understanding of what’s really happening where they work.
Based on data from 50 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
Do workers feel well informed about how Watco is doing?
Only some people feel well informed about how the company is doing.
62% of people feel that they aren’t kept well informed about how the company is doing as a whole.
Based on data from 50 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
62% of people feel that they aren’t kept well informed about how the company is doing as a whole.
Based on data from 50 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and August 2026.
What other companies are hiring for Brake Operator jobs?
What are the most popular jobs at Watco?
What are the most popular categories at Watco?
Full-time
Posted 7 days ago
Watco rating
6.3
Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
304th of 366 rated logistics
Job description
Manager of Rail Safety Training - Fairfield, AL
Job Location: Fairfield, AL Depot-35064
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Salary
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 on 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
This senior-level position will be a major contributor to the development and growth of both new and experienced team members, by developing, revising, and delivering classroom, computer based, simulator, and hands-on training for various railroad positions and crafts, with a primary focus on Operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Demonstrate by example as a safety manager with genuine care and passion, to empower all fellow team members to be an integral and valuable part of our Safety Culture
• Develop, review, and revise training and testing programs with other Safety Managers as needed, as well as assist with training and operational needs for new start-up operations
• Lead and demonstrate hands-on field training using on-site railroad equipment and tools
• Identify and eliminate hazardous conditions or unsafe behaviors of all associated tasks and jobs
• Communicate, support, and advise location managers of training and documentation requirements for team members to comply with Company policies, and local, state, and federal regulatory agencies
• Conduct and lead efforts in correctly performing individual efficiency testing and audits to determine safety compliance, proficiency in work practices, knowledge of safeguards and desire for continuous improvement
• Continue education and knowledge through continued professional development through regulatory research, self-study, seminars, conferences, and meetings to ensure best practices are maintained during industry changes
• Assist in recognizing, developing, and implementing proactive preventative measures such as near misses, safety suggestions and concerns, etc.
• Performs other duties as required
Qualifications
• Minimum of 3 years of operating experience as a full-time certified freight conductor
• Must currently hold an FRA Part 242 freight conductor certification
• Minimum of 3 years of operating experience as a certified train service engineer (Class I Railroad preferred)
• Must currently hold an FRA Part 240 locomotive train service engineer certification
• Must possess a valid Driver's License with no restrictions
• Supervisory experience in operating department as a Designated Supervisor of Locomotive Engineer (DSLE), Road Foreman of Engines (RFE) or equivalent is preferred but not required
• Nationally recognized safety certifications preferred (ASSP, NASP, NSC type certifications in safety, training methodology, Safety Management System development, etc.)
• Must have the ability to perform outdoor field training for prolonged periods, as both ground-level conductor/switchman instructor and in-cab instructor engineer
• Must possess strong analytical, written, and oral communication skills
• Experience working with basic office computer programs (PPT, Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.)
• Must possess strong work ethic and lead by example in meeting schedules, appointments, and timelines
• Must be proficient, skilled and knowledgeable in: Railroad Safety Rules, Railroad Operating Rules (General Code of Operating Rules preferred), Special Instructions and Timetables, Air Brake and Train Handling Rules, and Train Handling Techniques, Railcar Inspections and Air Brake Tests, Railroad Main Track Operating Methods (Block Signal Systems, Track Warrants, etc.), Basic Locomotive Mechanical Knowledge and Online Troubleshooting
Education
Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent
Job Location: Fairfield, AL Depot-35064
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Salary
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 on 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
This senior-level position will be a major contributor to the development and growth of both new and experienced team members, by developing, revising, and delivering classroom, computer based, simulator, and hands-on training for various railroad positions and crafts, with a primary focus on Operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Demonstrate by example as a safety manager with genuine care and passion, to empower all fellow team members to be an integral and valuable part of our Safety Culture
• Develop, review, and revise training and testing programs with other Safety Managers as needed, as well as assist with training and operational needs for new start-up operations
• Lead and demonstrate hands-on field training using on-site railroad equipment and tools
• Identify and eliminate hazardous conditions or unsafe behaviors of all associated tasks and jobs
• Communicate, support, and advise location managers of training and documentation requirements for team members to comply with Company policies, and local, state, and federal regulatory agencies
• Conduct and lead efforts in correctly performing individual efficiency testing and audits to determine safety compliance, proficiency in work practices, knowledge of safeguards and desire for continuous improvement
• Continue education and knowledge through continued professional development through regulatory research, self-study, seminars, conferences, and meetings to ensure best practices are maintained during industry changes
• Assist in recognizing, developing, and implementing proactive preventative measures such as near misses, safety suggestions and concerns, etc.
• Performs other duties as required
Qualifications
• Minimum of 3 years of operating experience as a full-time certified freight conductor
• Must currently hold an FRA Part 242 freight conductor certification
• Minimum of 3 years of operating experience as a certified train service engineer (Class I Railroad preferred)
• Must currently hold an FRA Part 240 locomotive train service engineer certification
• Must possess a valid Driver's License with no restrictions
• Supervisory experience in operating department as a Designated Supervisor of Locomotive Engineer (DSLE), Road Foreman of Engines (RFE) or equivalent is preferred but not required
• Nationally recognized safety certifications preferred (ASSP, NASP, NSC type certifications in safety, training methodology, Safety Management System development, etc.)
• Must have the ability to perform outdoor field training for prolonged periods, as both ground-level conductor/switchman instructor and in-cab instructor engineer
• Must possess strong analytical, written, and oral communication skills
• Experience working with basic office computer programs (PPT, Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.)
• Must possess strong work ethic and lead by example in meeting schedules, appointments, and timelines
• Must be proficient, skilled and knowledgeable in: Railroad Safety Rules, Railroad Operating Rules (General Code of Operating Rules preferred), Special Instructions and Timetables, Air Brake and Train Handling Rules, and Train Handling Techniques, Railcar Inspections and Air Brake Tests, Railroad Main Track Operating Methods (Block Signal Systems, Track Warrants, etc.), Basic Locomotive Mechanical Knowledge and Online Troubleshooting
Education
Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent