Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers
Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.
Median salary
$68,840/yr
Typical range
$57,820 – $76,590
Education
High school diploma
Time to entry
No degree required — short-term training or on-the-job learning
What a Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers does
You manage train braking systems, signals, and track switches to ensure safe train movement, or assist locomotive engineers with equipment maintenance and operation. This role is essential for coordinating complex rail operations.
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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