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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers

Median Salary
63,540
Job Outlook
+2%

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

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.

What is the job outlook?

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$48,320

10%

$63,540

Median

$82,490

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Railroad and Railway Transportation

Skills and Interest

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • Transportation
  • Mechanical
  • Public Safety and Security
  • English Language
  • Education and Training

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test

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Data supplied by Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center of Education Statistics, Defense Manpower Data Center (View our update schedule). Contact any business, college or military service branch to answer additional questions.