Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Railroad Switch Operator
What railroad switch operators actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a railroad switch operator?
Job briefing. From there, the day usually includes line switches, couple and uncouple cars, and connect air hoses. Shifts include nights, weekends and holidays.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a railroad switch operator working full time.
- Job briefing.
- Line switches for a move.
- Couple cars.
- Lace air hoses.
- Set hand brakes.
- Inspect a cut of cars.
- Tie up.
Where railroad switch operators work
Workers are outdoors in rail yards and along tracks.
Hours and schedule
Shifts include nights, weekends and holidays.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Line switches
- Couple and uncouple cars
- Connect air hoses
- Set hand brakes
- Give radio signals
- Inspect cars
- Follow operating rules
Tools you’ll use every day
- Switch stands
- Radios
- Brake clubs
- Lanterns
- Gloves
- Rulebooks
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Union pay
- No degree needed
- Outdoor work
- Path to conductor and engineer
What’s hard
- Weather
- Shift work
- Physical work
- Yard hazards
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like trains
- I don’t mind weather
- I follow rules
- I like teamwork
- I can work shifts
- I want union pay
Not sure? Take the free Railroad Switch Operator fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Never step between moving cars
- Use three-step protection
- Wear PPE
- Watch footing