Jobs › Marmon Holdings

Decatur- Rail Switching Technician

Marmon Holdings · Decatur, IL · $22.50–$24.00 an hour · Full time

Posted Aug 7, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

This job is outdoors year-round in Decatur. Tell me about other work you have done outside in heat, cold and rain.

What they are checking: Whether they know what the conditions really are and have shown up through them before.

Tell me about a time you stopped a job or spoke up because something did not look safe.

What they are checking: Whether they will actually use stop-work authority instead of going along with the crew.

How dependable have you been with attendance in past jobs? Walk me through your record honestly.

What they are checking: Whether the customer facility can count on them, since a short crew slows the whole plant.

Tell me about working on a small team where everyone depended on each other to get the job done.

What they are checking: Whether they pull their weight and watch out for coworkers in a crew setting.

What have you done with heavy equipment or machinery before, and what did that teach you about paying attention?

What they are checking: Whether they bring a habit of situational awareness around heavy, moving equipment.

What would you do

A crew member gives you a hand signal you are not sure about. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they stop and confirm rather than guess when a mistake could cause a collision.

The plant is pushing to get cars spotted faster, and you are being rushed. How do you handle it?

What they are checking: Whether they keep their pace safe while still respecting the customer's schedule.

About the work

Why does a rail yard need such strict rules about stepping between cars or fouling the track?

What they are checking: Whether they grasp that railcars cannot stop quickly and that one shortcut can kill someone.

You will operate locomotives and assist with switching. How would you go about learning hand signals and radio communication with your crew?

What they are checking: Whether they understand that clear, confirmed communication is the core safety tool in switching.

What do you check before tying down or securing a railcar, and why does it matter?

What they are checking: Whether they understand hand brakes and securement prevent runaway cars that injure people.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Marmon Holdings.

Railserve As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings—which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway— you’ll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We’re committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone’s empowered to be their best. Railserve is hiring dependable, safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Decatur, IL to support daily rail operations at an industrial facility. This is a full-time, outdoor, hands-on role critical to keeping railcars moving safely and efficiently. Who We Are Railserve is a leading provider of industrial railyard services across the United States and Canada. Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive service and repair for customers who depend on safe, reliable rail operations every day. With decades of industry experience, Railserve is built on a foundation of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence. We invest in our people, promote from within, and use innovative, safety-focused technology to keep railyards running efficiently. Learn more at www.Railserve.com Job Description In this role, you will operate locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement and placement of railcars. This is an entry-level opportunity with training provided for individuals who are reliable, safety-minded, and willing to learn. If you enjoy hands-on work and want to build a long-term career in rail operations, this role may be a great fit. Schedule: Full-time; schedule varies based on operational needs Compensation: $22.50 – $24.00 per hour (based on experience) Duties • Inspect locomotives prior to operation (fuel, sand, water, and supplies) • Operate locomotive controls such as throttle and air brakes • Interpret train orders, signals, and safety rules • Assist with switching, placement, and movement of railcars • Operate switches, derails, gates, and trackside equipment • Control movement of equipment using radio, hand signals, and lanterns • Couple and uncouple railcars; handle air hoses and wheel chocks • Apply and release hand brakes to secure equipment • Monitor track conditions and identify hazards • Assist in training new employees • Perform routine lubrication and basic maintenance tasks • Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE • Perform additional duties as assigned Job Requirements • High school diploma or equivalent • Ability to pass a physical, drug screen, and background check • Ability to perform physically demanding work in outdoor environments • Ability to lift, carry, and handle equipment • Ability to climb on and off railcars, ladders, and platforms • Strong communication and teamwork skills • Dependable with reliable transportation • Ability to follow instructions and safety procedures • Military experience is a plus What We Offer (Benefits) Railserve is committed to being an Employer of Choice, offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package: • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage • Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance • Company-paid sickness and accident income • 401(k) with company match • Annual safety shoe reimbursement • Prescription safety wear • Holiday pay • Vacation • Marmon employee discount program Additional Information • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions • Requires working around heavy equipment and moving railcars • Must comply with all safety requirements at all times Grow With Us Don’t worry if you don’t meet every qualification. Railserve values reliability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Our tools, technology, and processes continue to evolve, and we invest in training and developing our people for long-term success. Railserve provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. We recruit, hire, train, promote, and compensate employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. #LI-DNI Pay Range: 20.25 - 24.75 We offer a comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental, vision, 401k matching, and more! Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law . We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to careers@marmon.com, and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.

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