How much does a Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers make in Illinois?
Last updated: 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Operate or monitor railroad track switches or locomotive instruments. May couple or uncouple rolling stock to make up or break up trains. Watch for and relay traffic signals. May inspect couplings, air hoses, journal boxes, and hand brakes. May watch for dragging equipment or obstacles on rights-of-way.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor
Salaries for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in Illinois range from $46,210 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $85,040 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $47,540 and $82,710.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $46,210 | $22.22 | $3,850 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,540 | $22.86 | $3,961 |
| Median (50th) | $60,130 | $28.91 | $5,010 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,710 | $39.76 | $6,892 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $85,040 | $40.88 | $7,086 |
Note: The mean (average) salary of $64,790 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.
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Compare Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2024 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS