Regional Rail Operations Leader

Patriot Rail Company; Town of Texas (WI); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual incentive opportunity

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Company-provided travel resources

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Patriot Rail Company in the United States seeks a Regional Vice President of Rail Operations to lead safe, efficient and profitable operations across multiple short line and regional properties. You will shape strategy, drive KPIs, and mentor regional leaders to deliver exceptional service and regulatory compliance.

The role demands hands-on field leadership, extensive travel, and a proven track record in railroad operations, budgeting, and union/non-union workforce management, with a focus on

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, transportation, engineering, logistics, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive railroad operations experience.
• Minimum 5 years of senior leadership experience across multiple locations.
• Strong knowledge of FRA regulations and railroad operating practices.
• Proven ability to lead large teams and deliver improvements.
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively (50–75%).
• Executive leadership experience in short line, regional, or Class I railroad environments.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct leadership and oversight of multiple railroad operations across the region.
• Drive safety, service, productivity, and financial results using KPIs.
• Develop and execute regional business plans aligned with company objectives.
• Review trends and implement corrective actions to improve performance.
• Lead incident investigations and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Partner with HR for workforce planning and talent development.
• Collaborate with Sales/Marketing to meet customer needs and growth opportunities.
• Represent the company with regulators and community stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Regulatory compliance

People development

Stakeholder relations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Transportation/Engineering/Logistics

Equivalent railroad leadership experience

Job description

Patriot Rail Company in the United States seeks a Regional Vice President of Rail Operations to lead safe, efficient and profitable operations across multiple short line and regional properties. You will shape strategy, drive KPIs, and mentor regional leaders to deliver exceptional service and regulatory compliance.

The role demands hands-on field leadership, extensive travel, and a proven track record in railroad operations, budgeting, and union/non-union workforce management, with a focus on