Rail Switching Technician

Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Kankakee, IL to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, hands-on role critical to the safe movement, placement, and switching of railcars that support customer operations and production schedules. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being part of a safety-focused team. Railserve provides opportunities for long-term career growth and advancement within rail operations. Who We Are Railserve is a leading provider of industrial railyard services across the United States and Canada. Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive service and repair for customers who depend on safe, reliable rail operations every day. With decades of industry experience, Railserve is built on a foundation of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence. We invest in our people, promote from within, and use innovative, safety-focused technology to keep railyards running efficiently. Learn more at Railserve.com. Job Description Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment while coordinating railcar movement throughout an industrial facility. This role supports the timely and accurate switching, placement, and movement of railcars while maintaining compliance with company safety procedures and customer operating requirements. Employees work in active industrial rail yard environments around locomotives, railcars, heavy equipment, and moving machinery. Daily responsibilities include operating switches and brakes, coupling and uncoupling railcars, inspecting equipment, and communicating movement instructions with crews and site leadership. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Strong attendance, communication skills, and a commitment to safety are critical for success in this role. Railserve promotes from within and provides opportunities for advancement into leadership and skilled rail operations positions. Schedule Wednesday through Sunday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Monday and Tuesday off Overtime may be required based on operational needs Compensation $21.00-$23.00 per hour, based on experience. Duties Operate locomotives and rail equipment safely and efficiently Perform railcar switching and placement according to operational schedules Interpret train orders, signals, and operating procedures Inspect locomotives prior to operation Operate hand and ground throw switches, derails, and gates Control equipment movement using radio communication, hand signals, and lanterns Couple and uncouple railcars and connect air hoses Apply and release hand brakes to secure equipment Observe tracks and surroundings for safety hazards or obstructions Handle train equipment safely using independent and automatic brakes Assist in training new employees as needed Complete reports related to delays, incidents, or operational activity Lubricate and inspect locomotive components as required Wear required personal protective equipment at all times Follow company operating procedures and safety requirements Perform additional operational duties as assigned Job Requirements High school diploma or GED required Reliable transportation required Strong attendance and dependability required Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions Ability to walk on uneven terrain and climb on rail equipment Ability to lift, carry, and handle heavy equipment and materials Strong communication and teamwork skills Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities safely and effectively Strong attention to detail and situational awareness Ability to follow safety rules, operating procedures, and instructions Ability to participate in Railserve's pre-employment screening process Military experience is a plus What We Offer (Benefits) Railserve is committed to being an Employer of Choice, offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance Company-paid sickness and accident income 401(k) with company match Annual safety shoe reimbursement Prescription safety wear Holiday pay Vacation Marmon employee discount program Additional Information Outdoor industrial rail yard environment Exposure to locomotives, railcars, moving machinery, noise, dust, and varying weather conditions Moderate to heavy physical labor required Frequent walking, climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, and lifting Required use of personal protective equipment Safety-sensitive position requiring strict compliance with company and customer safety procedures Grow With Us Don't worry if you don't meet every qualification. Railserve values reliability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Our tools, technology, and processes continue to evolve, and we invest in training and developing our people for long-term success. Railserve provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. We recruit, hire, train, promote, and compensate employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Referral program Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person