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A Switchman also referred to as a pointsman, is a traditional role found by the sides of rails and train stations, responsible for operating railway switches and various railway points. This position also involves moving empty cars and helping maintain and inspect rail cars and trains, and examining air brakes, too, for any possible damage or rot. They also assist with railway transportation by operating locomotives or promoting safety policies and programs.
A Switchman must be able to maintain and repair certain tools and machinery and must create and update important documents and schedules. A person seeking to begin work as a Switchman generally needs to have a high school diploma or a GED and work experience in an industrial setting. They also must stick to certain company guidelines and federal or state laws and regulations and are often provided training on the job. On average, a Switchman earns $20.88 an hour.
Avg. Salary $57,143
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth Rate 4%
Growth Rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.90%
Asian 2.02%
Black or African American 11.03%
Hispanic or Latino 10.87%
Unknown 4.81%
White 70.37%
Genderfemale 4.57%
male 95.43%
Age - 46American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 46Stress level is very high
7.1 - high
Complexity Level is intermediate
7 - challenging
Work Life balance is poor
6.4 - fair
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Skills | Percentages |
---|---|
Switches | 27.42% |
Ladders | 19.33% |
Rail Cars | 12.19% |
Air Hoses | 10.90% |
Locomotives | 6.57% |
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The average Switchman salary in the United States is $57,143 per year or $27 per hour. Switchman salaries range between $39,000 and $81,000 per year.
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