Switchman- Unit Operator

Genesee & Wyoming Inc.; Cheyenne (WY); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision & Telehealth

401(k) Retirement Plan

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Genesee & Wyoming Inc. is seeking a Switchman to safely operate rail equipment and ensure efficient freight delivery. The ideal candidate will engage in both hands-on and classroom training, support train operations, and face the dynamic challenges of an outdoor work environment.

The position offers competitive pay along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision coverage, life insurance, and paid time off. Join G&W and explore opportunities for growth in your career.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of related or relevant work experience is a plus.
• Experience working in a safety-sensitive environment is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Comply with all federal, state, and other applicable railroad safety and operational regulations.
• Operate track switches to determine the route of the train or rail equipment.
• Inspect the condition of railcars in movement and while stationary.

Skills

Effective communication skills

Situational awareness

Decision-making abilities

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Company / Benefits Overview

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W)—part of a legacy that is over 125 years old. With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we provide transportation and logistics services to more than 2,000 customers.

At G&W, we live by our Core Values: Safety, Service, Integrity, Respect, Transparency, Accountability, Innovation and Excellence. We offer competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and paid training to help you succeed. Some of our great benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision & Telehealth
• Life Insurance
• Optional benefit coverages for Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, ID Theft & Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Account plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• On the Job Training
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Does not pay into the Railroad Retirement Board
• And more!

Job Summary

As a Switchman, you’ll play a key role in safely operating rail equipment to ensure that freight is delivered to our customers efficiently. We will provide you with hands‑on and classroom training to set a strong foundation for a long‑term career. You’ll work outdoors in all weather conditions, tackling new challenges each day while ensuring we meet our customers’ needs. This is a physically active position with real opportunities for growth and advancement in a complex and dynamic environment.

Explore your future with G&W today and learn more about the opportunities to grow across our organization!

Responsibilities

• Comply with all federal, state, and other applicable railroad safety and operational regulations
• Follow instructions when working with a certified trainer, mentor, or supervisor
• Communicate with customers and team members using oral, written, hand signals, lantern signals or radio instructions to coordinate train or railcar movement
• Operate track switches to determine the route of the train or rail equipment
• Evaluate, plan, and complete all assigned work safely and efficiently
• Climb on and off equipment and walk the length of the train or rail yard to support train operations
• Apply or release hand brakes on railcars multiple times a day to control movement
• Read and understand the rule books and other written or printed material
• Inspect the condition of railcars in movement and while stationary
• Connect air hoses and electrical components between locomotives or railcars
• Utilize basic computer skills proficiently for electronic reporting and train documentation
• Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements

• Full‑time (40 plus hours weekly)
• Varying schedule in a 24/7 work environment that includes nights, holidays, weekends, and on‑call as needed
• Outdoor work in all weather conditions working up to a 12‑hour shift
• Walking long distances on uneven surfaces and climbing ladders and equipment, always ensuring three points of contact in varying environmental conditions
• Able to lift up to 75 pounds from floor to waist and carry short distances
• Able to squat, bend and lift overhead
• Have good balance and coordination
• Must meet vision requirements

Skills And Experience

• 2+ years of related or relevant work experience is a plus
• Effective communication skills both written and verbal
• Experience working in a safety‑sensitive environment is a plus
• Possess situational awareness and decision‑making abilities to respond effectively in a safety sensitive environment

Required Education And Credentials

• High school diploma or GED; or an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience
• Valid driver’s license
• At least eighteen years of age

Employment Requirements

• Pre‑employment physical, hearing, and vision medical review
• May be subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing including pre‑employment drug screening
• Background screening including criminal and motor vehicle driving history

Relocation

Must live within 50 miles of assigned location or be willing to relocate. Relocation assistance is not offered for this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Genesee & Wyoming Inc. and its subsidiary companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other protected status protected under federal, state or local laws.