Railway Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Mombasa, Kenya – Transportation

Job Description

Position: Railway Operations Manager

Company: Kenya Railways Corporation

Location: Mombasa, Kenya

Experience: 5+ years in railway operations or transportation management

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Transport Management, Engineering, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Transportation

Department: Operations

Salary: SSP 250,000 – 350,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Kenya Railways Corporation is the national railway operator, delivering reliable freight and passenger services across the country. With a legacy spanning more than a century, the corporation plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economic development by connecting ports, industrial zones, and inland markets. The organization is committed to modernizing its infrastructure, adopting digital solutions, and enhancing safety standards. As part of its strategic growth, Kenya Railways is expanding operations in the coastal region, making Mombasa a critical hub for regional trade and logistics. This expansion creates exciting career opportunities for professionals seeking to contribute to Kenya’s transport transformation and to be part of a dynamic, forward‑looking team.

Job Overview

The Railway Operations Manager will oversee the day‑to‑day functioning of railway services in the Mombasa corridor. Reporting to the Director of Operations, the role ensures that train schedules, safety protocols, and maintenance activities align with corporate standards and regulatory requirements. The manager will coordinate with engineering, maintenance, commercial, and customer service teams to optimize asset utilization, improve punctuality, and enhance passenger experience. This position is central to achieving Kenya Railways’ vision of a safe, efficient, and customer‑focused rail network, and it directly supports Kenya’s broader goals of sustainable transport and economic growth. For more information about Kenya Railways and its initiatives, visit Kenya Job Search.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, monitor, and adjust daily train schedules to meet service reliability targets.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, conducting regular audits and incident investigations.
• Lead cross‑functional teams in troubleshooting operational disruptions and implementing corrective actions.
• Manage relationships with freight customers, addressing service queries and optimizing cargo handling.
• Oversee routine and preventive maintenance coordination with the engineering department.
• Prepare operational performance reports for senior management and regulatory bodies.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and increase passenger satisfaction.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of railway operations, signaling systems, and logistics management.
• Excellent leadership and team‑building abilities.
• Proficient in data analysis and performance monitoring tools.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Problem‑solving mindset with the ability to make decisions under pressure.
• Familiarity with Kenyan transport regulations and safety standards.
• Competence in budgeting and resource allocation.

Education

A bachelor’s degree in Transport Management, Railway Engineering, Logistics, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Certified Railway Operations Manager (CROM) or equivalent are advantageous and demonstrate a commitment to industry best practices.

Experience

Applicants must have a minimum of five years of progressive experience in railway or large‑scale transportation operations, with at least two years in a supervisory or managerial capacity. Experience in coordinating multi‑modal logistics, handling freight contracts, and implementing safety management systems is highly valued.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary range of SSP 250,000 to 350,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and allowances are also part of the total compensation package.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Pension scheme with employer contributions.
• Annual leave and sick leave in line with Kenyan labor law.
• Transportation allowance for commuting to the Mombasa depot.
• Professional development budget for certifications and courses.
• Employee assistance program supporting work‑life balance.

Training

• Induction program covering Kenya Railways policies, safety standards, and operational procedures.
• Ongoing technical training on signaling, asset management, and digital rail systems.
• Leadership workshops to enhance managerial competencies.
• Safety and emergency response drills conducted quarterly.
• Access to industry conferences and seminars for continuous learning.

Working Environment

The role is based at the Mombasa railway depot, a modern facility equipped with state‑of‑the‑art control rooms, maintenance workshops, and passenger lounges. Employees work in a collaborative environment that values safety, innovation, and customer focus. The position may require occasional field visits to track sections and coordination with external partners, offering a dynamic and engaging work setting.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the Kenya Railways career portal, attaching a current CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience. Applications will be screened by the HR team, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment. The recruitment process aims to be transparent, efficient, and inclusive.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Kenya Railways Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background, can thrive and contribute to our shared success.