About this role
Railway Switching Technician - Hammond, IN
Railserve
Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Hammond, IN to support daily rail operations at industrial facilities. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role critical to keeping railcars moving safely and efficiently.
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.
Job Description In this role, you’ll work as part of a team to operate locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement of railcars. Whether you bring prior rail experience or are looking to start your career in rail operations, Railserve provides paid training, strong leadership support, and long-term career opportunities. If you enjoy physical work, problem-solving, and working in a fast-paced environment where safety and teamwork come first, this role may be a great fit.
This entry-level position is responsible for assisting in the operation of locomotives, interpreting train signals, and supporting the safe and efficient movement and placement of railcars. This role requires strict adherence to safety procedures and is a great opportunity to build a long-term career in the rail industry.
Schedule 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Wednesday through Sunday, with occasional overtime
Compensation
$22.00 – $24.00 per hour (based on experience)
Duties
- Inspect locomotives before operation to verify fuel, sand, water, and supplies
- Operate locomotive controls such as throttle and air brakes under supervision
- Interpret train orders, signals, and safety rules
- Assist with switching, placement, and movement of railcars
- Operate switches, derails, gates, and trackside equipment
- Control movement of equipment using radio, hand signals, and lanterns
- Couple and uncouple railcars and manage air hoses and wheel chocks
- Apply and release hand brakes to secure equipment
- Monitor track conditions and report hazards or obstructions
- Assist in training new employees
- Prepare reports related to delays, incidents, or operational issues
- Perform routine lubrication and basic maintenance tasks
- Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Job Requirements
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High school diploma or equivalent
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Ability to pass a physical, drug screen, and background check
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Dependable with reliable daily transportation
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Strong communication and teamwork skills
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Ability to work in a fast-paced, safety-focused environment
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Ability to prioritize tasks and follow direction from leadership
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Ability to lift, carry, and handle equipment (up to ~50 lbs)
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What We Offer (Benefits) Railserve is committed to being an Employer of Choice, offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package starting on Day 1:
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Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
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Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance
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Company-paid sickness and accident income
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401(k) with company match
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Annual safety shoe reimbursement
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Prescription safety wear
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Holiday pay
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Vacation
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Marmon employee discount program
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Additional Information
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This is an entry-level role; training will be provided
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Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions
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Requires working around heavy equipment and in loud environments
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Must comply with all safety requirements at all times
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Grow With Us
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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.
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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.
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We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please contact us with your request and include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.