Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in North Carolina
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | North Carolina | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $36,290 | $65,480 | -44.6% vs US |
| State Rank | #24 of 24 states | ||
| Employment | 50 jobs | 12,460 jobs | 0.4% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,410 | $17.03 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,250 | $17.43 |
| Median | $36,290 | $17.45 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,800 | $39.33 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,800 | $39.33 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in North Carolina in 2026?
With a median salary of $36,290 in North Carolina and a 2020–2024 salary trend of -37.7%, railroad brake, signal, and switch operators and locomotive firers remain an established career option.
How can railroad brake, signal, and switch operators and locomotive firers increase their salary in North Carolina?
Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in North Carolina can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: North Carolina currently ranks #24 out of 24 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in North Carolina?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) | $85,040 |
| Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) | $85,040 |
| Local Government, excluding Schools and Hospitals (OEWS Designation) | $85,040 |
How are Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers paid in North Carolina compared to the national average?
The median salary for Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers in North Carolina is $36,290, which is 44.6% below the national median of $65,480.