Crew Leader (Railcar Switching) - Sauget / Cahokia, IL

Watco; Cahokia (IL); On-site; USD 34,440 - 37,195; Full time

Job summary

Watco is looking for a Rail Switching Crew Leader in Cahokia, IL to manage a switch crew overseeing rail and marine terminal operations. You will engage in hands-on leadership while ensuring compliance with safety standards and operational efficiency.

The successful candidate must have at least 2 years of relevant experience and be 18 or older with a High School or GED equivalent. This full-time position offers a competitive hourly rate between $25.00 and $27.00 based on experience, with a Monday to Friday schedule.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of relevant operational or field experience.
• Understanding of basic workplace safety practices and PPE requirements.
• Valid Driver’s license and current TWIC card.

Responsibilities

• Supervise operations to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Support loading, unloading, switching activities.
• Enforce safety policies and procedures for all personnel.

Skills

Team leadership

Operational supervision

Safety compliance

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Education

High School or GED equivalent

Job description

Rail Switching Crew Leader, Sauget, IL

Watco is hiring a Rail Switching Crew Leader to oversee a 3‑person switch crew at our Sauget, IL marine and rail terminal. Prior railcar switching or railroad experience is required. This is a working leadership role — you will actively participate in switching operations while directing crew members and upholding all safety and operational standards.

Schedule

Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM. Overtime and weekend work required as needed.

Pay

$25.00 – $27.00 per hour, depending on experience.

Benefits Note

This position is not eligible for Railroad Retirement (RRB) benefits.

Job Summary

A Crew Leader oversees day‑to‑day field operations by guiding work teams to ensure tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company standards. This role provides hands‑on leadership in operational activities, supports team member training and development, and helps maintain compliance with safety and environmental requirements. The Crew Leader also assists in resolving operational issues and promotes a well‑organized, productive work environment across all assigned areas.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Assist leadership in supervising and directing teams to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant daily operations across assigned work areas.
• Support loading, unloading, switching, spotting, and transfer activities while ensuring accuracy of required documentation and records.
• Enforce company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements for all team members, contractors, drivers, and visitors on site.
• Support a safety‑first culture and ensure all team members properly utilize personal protective equipment (PPE). Operate equipment as needed to support operations.
• Support training efforts by coordinating, delivering, and reinforcing operational and safety procedures for team members.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and assist in resolving equipment, process, and workflow challenges in the field.
• Promote and maintain a clean, organized, and environmentally compliant work environment across all assigned areas.
• Participate in safety meetings and actively identify, report, and help correct safety and environmental hazards.
• Communicate and collaborate with management regarding operational performance, team member development, and safety improvements.
• Ensure all required documentation, logs, and reporting are completed accurately and in a timely manner.
• Perform additional duties across operations as trained or assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of relevant operational or field experience.
• Understanding of basic workplace safety practices, PPE requirements, and ability to follow and enforce safety procedures consistently.
• Ability to guide small teams, give clear instructions, and communicate effectively with peers and supervisors in a field environment.
• Knowledgeable of industrial, terminal operations, port, and or rail operations with the ability to learn and support loading, unloading, transfer, or similar workflow activities.
• Ability to identify operational issues in the field and assist in resolving basic equipment, process, or workflow challenges.
• Willingness to work in changing conditions, learn multiple operational tasks, and consistently support team and production needs.
• Valid Driver’s license.
• TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Card) current or ability to obtain and maintain one.

Education

Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent.