Position
Salary

How much does a Yard Pilot make?

The average salary for a Yard Pilot is $39,093 per year in the US.

Yard Pilots, who work in rail yards, play a key role in moving trains. They help ensure that trains are placed in the right spots and are ready to move. The salary for a Yard Pilot can vary based on experience and location. In many places, Yard Pilots earn between $32,000 and $64,000 each year. Most Yard Pilots can expect to make around $39,093 per year.

Several factors can influence the salary of a Yard Pilot. These include the size of the rail company, the region, and the number of years of experience. Larger companies in busy areas often offer higher wages. Those with more experience usually earn more as well. This role provides a stable and rewarding career in the railroad industry.

View Yard Pilot jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Yard Pilot?

Job seekers interested in becoming a Yard Pilot can find some of the best opportunities in Tulsa, OK. This city offers one of the highest average salaries in the field. Oklahoma City, OK, closely follows with a competitive average salary, making both cities attractive options for those seeking rewarding careers. Choosing either city can lead to a stable job market with good growth potential. The presence of major companies in these areas ensures a steady demand for skilled Yard Pilots.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Yard Pilot jobs, highlighting Tulsa, OK with the highest at $37,206 and Oklahoma City, OK with the lowest at $36,825.
  1. Tulsa, OK
    Average Salary: $37,206
    In Tulsa, working with leading firms can offer exciting opportunities. Companies like BNSF Railway and Union Pacific provide chances to manage large rail operations. Employees enjoy a supportive environment with growth potential.
    Find Yard Pilot jobs in Tulsa, OK


  2. Oklahoma City, OK
    Average Salary: $36,825
    Oklahoma City has a bustling rail industry. Positions with BNSF Railway and Union Pacific allow professionals to oversee freight movements efficiently. The area values skilled operators and offers a dynamic work setting.
    Find Yard Pilot jobs in Oklahoma City, OK

What are the best companies a Yard Pilot can work for?

Ritchie Bros. offers the highest average salary for Yard Pilot positions at $37,360 annually. This company stands out for its competitive pay and valuable opportunities. Carter Lumber and Leppo Rents also provide strong salaries, with Carter Lumber at $36,673 and Leppo Rents at $34,059. All three companies present attractive benefits and career growth potential for job seekers in this role.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Yard Pilot jobs, highlighting Ritchie Bros. with the highest at $37,360 and Leppo Rents with the lowest at $34,059.
  1. Ritchie Bros.
    Average Salary: $37,360
    Ritchie Bros. is a global leader in auction services. They offer Yard Pilot jobs with plenty of growth opportunities. They operate in over 100 locations worldwide, including major cities in North America, Europe, and Asia. Candidates can expect to work with cutting-edge technology and be part of a dynamic team.


  2. Carter Lumber
    Average Salary: $36,673
    Carter Lumber offers rewarding Yard Pilot positions. They focus on sustainable forestry and timber sales. Their operations span across several states in the United States, providing ample chances for job seekers to work in diverse environments. Carter Lumber values teamwork and professional development.


  3. Leppo Rents
    Average Salary: $34,059
    Leppo Rents provides Yard Pilot jobs with a strong focus on safety and efficiency. They offer equipment rentals and related services in key industrial areas. Their branches are located in several states across the United States. Leppo Rents emphasizes a supportive work culture with opportunities for career advancement.

How to earn more as a Yard Pilot?

A Yard Pilot plays a key role in the safe and efficient movement of railcars. Increasing earning potential in this role can lead to greater job satisfaction and financial rewards. The following factors can help a Yard Pilot earn more:

  • Experience: Gaining experience is vital. The more time a Yard Pilot spends on the job, the more knowledgeable they become. This allows for quicker, more efficient work and a greater ability to handle challenging situations.
  • Certifications: Holding additional certifications can set a Yard Pilot apart from other candidates. Certifications in rail operations, safety, and technology can lead to higher-paying positions.
  • Night and Weekend Shifts: Working during off-peak hours can sometimes lead to higher pay rates. Yard Pilots who are willing to work nights and weekends may find better-paying opportunities.
  • Communication Skills: Being able to communicate clearly and effectively with team members and dispatchers is essential. Good communication skills can lead to better performance reviews and potential raises.
  • Attention to Detail: Yard Pilots need to be very careful when handling railcars. Making fewer mistakes can lead to higher trust from employers, which can translate into higher pay.

Increasing earnings as a Yard Pilot often requires a combination of dedication, continuous learning, and the willingness to take on different shifts. By focusing on these factors, Yard Pilots can position themselves for higher-paying opportunities and career advancement.

Currently 52 Yard Pilot job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Yard Pilot in the US?

Learn what a Yard Pilot does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Yard Pilot today.
Position
Overview
Yard Pilot
52 Job Openings