Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers
Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.
Median salary
$60,600/yr
Typical range
$52,780 – $80,360
Education
High school diploma
Time to entry
No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning
What a Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers does
You operate small locomotives or railcars to move trains in rail yards, sorting and assembling freight or passenger cars as needed. This job involves precision maneuvering in tight spaces and coordination with ground crews.
Education & path
The typical entry point is a high school diploma. No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning.
Estimated cost of that path: No degree cost. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.
Related careers
- Recycling and Reclamation Workers — $40,240/yr
- Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand — $40,240/yr
- Stockers and Order Fillers — $37,330/yr
- Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers — $58,640/yr
- Light Truck Drivers — $44,860/yr
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