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This standard is used to grade the nonsupervisory work involved in coordinating (onsite) the movement, make up, or break up of trains, locomotives, and train cars. The work requires knowledge of the layout of a railroad track system; knowledge of and ability to follow numerous safety, signaling, switching, track use, train car, and train movement procedures, restrictions, and requirements; and knowledge of the movement and braking characteristics of locomotives, train cars, and various sizes of
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-5736
This standard is used to grade the nonsupervisory work involved in coordinating (onsite) the movement, make up, or break up of trains, locomotives, and train cars. The work requires knowledge of the layout of a railroad track system; knowledge of and ability to follow numerous safety, signaling, switching, track use, train car, and train movement procedures, restrictions, and requirements; and knowledge of the movement and braking characteristics of locomotives, train cars, and various sizes of trains under a variety of weather, visibility, speed, cargo, track, and other operating conditions. Some work covered also requires ability to plan efficient work sequences in making up, breaking up, and overseeing (onsite the safe movement of trains; ability to coordinate the work of a train crew, and the ability to enforce numerous operational and safety procedures and requirements.
: The physical effort required at this grade is generally the same as that for the
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal braking-switching operating position
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Typical grades for Federal Wage System positions
A Braking-Switching Operator (WG-5736) coordinates onsite movement, make up, and break up of trains, locomotives, and train cars at federal rail facilities. They follow complex safety, signaling, and switching procedures while managing train movements.
WG-5736 positions are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Typical wages range $24-$38 per hour depending on locality and complexity. Annual earnings range $50,000-$79,000. This specialized trade exists at limited locations.
WG-5736 requires knowledge of railroad track layouts and safety procedures. Qualifications include understanding signaling, switching, and train movement requirements; knowledge of locomotive and car braking characteristics; and ability to follow strict safety protocols.
Military railroad operations experience directly qualifies. Army 88U (Railway Operations Crewmember) provides directly relevant training. Any transportation MOS involving rail operations has transferable skills for federal rail switching positions.
Braking-Switching Operators progress through skill levels at rail facilities. This is a specialized position at depots and arsenals with active rail systems. Career paths include rail operations supervision or transition to transportation management.
Search USAJOBS for 'Railroad' or 'Switching' or series '5736.' Positions exist at military depots, arsenals, and installations with active rail yards. Highlight your railroad experience, safety record, and relevant certifications. Veterans receive preference.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.