Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers: 2025 Salary Guide
Railroad brake, signal, and switch operators and locomotive firers earned a median salary of $68,840 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean annual wage hit $69,030, or roughly $33 per hour. The typical range runs from $45,660 at the 10th percentile to $86,590 at the 90th.
How much Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers earn
The median annual wage for this occupation is $68,840, with a mean of $69,030. Hourly pay averages about $33. The lowest-earning 10 percent make $45,660 or less, while the top 10 percent bring in $86,590 or more. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for May 2024.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. Washington tops the list at $85,140 average annual wage, followed by New York ($83,530), Iowa ($80,910), Maryland ($79,180), and Illinois ($76,290). At the lower end, Louisiana averages $54,260, West Virginia $46,900, and Wyoming $45,490—the lowest of any state. That spread is over $39,000 between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers
Entry into this field typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Most new hires learn through on-the-job training, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) sets safety regulations, so you will need to pass a background check, drug test, and hearing/vision tests. Some positions require a commercial driver's license (CDL) or railroad-specific certifications like signal apprentice training. Experience in mechanical work or heavy equipment can give you an edge. Railroads also look for people who can work shifts, weekends, and holidays, as trains run 24/7.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Pass drug test, background check, and medical exam
- Complete on-the-job training (weeks to months)
- Obtain CDL or signal certification if required
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow just 1 percent from 2024 to 2034—slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 1,000 openings per year over the decade, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. The BLS counts 12,400 jobs in 2024. Automation and efficiency improvements could limit growth, but steady freight and passenger demand will keep the rails running.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in 2025?
The 2024 median annual wage is $68,840, with a typical range of $45,660 to $86,590. The mean hourly wage is about $33.
How do I become a Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operator or Locomotive Fire?
You need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. You must pass drug tests, background checks, and medical exams. Some roles require a CDL or railroad signal certification.
What is the job outlook for this career?
Employment is projected to grow 1% from 2024 to 2034, slower than average. About 1,000 openings per year are expected due to turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers data.