Job Description: Operate or monitor railroad track switches or locomotive instruments. May couple or uncouple rolling stock to make up or break up trains. Watch for and relay traffic signals. May inspect couplings, air hoses, journal boxes, and hand brakes. May watch for dragging equipment or obstacles on rights-of-way.
Is Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firer the right career path for you?
Take the MyMajors Quiz and find out if it fits one of your top recommended majors!
Median Annual Wage |
$63,170 |
Median Hourly Wage |
$30.37* |
Total Employed Nationally |
12,460 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2025 wage data and 2024-2034 employment projections. "Projected growth" represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2024-2034). "Projected job openings" represent openings due to growth and replacement.