CSX lays off 166 management workers companywide

CSX has reduced its management workforce by about 5% following a review of market conditions and company costs, officials said. "This decision follows a thorough evaluation of current market conditions and the company's cost structure," Austin Staton, CSX media relations director said. "We are providing competitive severance packages and employment transition services to support impacted employees through this change." Staton said CSX employs about 23,000 people nationwide, including more than 3,000 management employees. He noted that approximately 56% of the management team is based in Jacksonville, Florida. The announcement comes as the railroad prepares to release its fourth quarter financial and operating results after market close on Thursday, Jan. 22, according to a company press release dated Dec. 22. In its third quarter 2025 financial report, CSX reported operating income of $1.09 billion and net earnings of $694 million, or 37 cents per share. Excluding a non-cash goodwill impairment of $164 million, adjusted operating income was $1.25 billion and adjusted net earnings were $818 million, or 44 cents per share. During the same quarter in 2024, the company reported operating income of $1.35 billion and net earnings of $894 million, or 46 cents per share. Adjusted results for the quarter included $35 million in corporate restructuring, severance and advisory expenses, according to the financial report. CSX's 2024 annual report described the year as one shaped by significant disruptions, including the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, multiple hurricanes, including Hurricane Helene, and an East Coast port strike. The company reported $14.5 billion in revenue for the year, a 1 percent decrease from the previous year, while operating income declined 5% to $5.2 billion. CSX invested $2.5 billion in infrastructure during 2024 to maintain and enhance its rail network, according to the annual report. The workforce changes also follow a leadership transition at CSX. In September 2025, the company announced that its board named Steve Angel as president and chief executive officer, succeeding Joe Hinrichs. 37.26 USD +1.49 (4.15%) from Friday, Jan. 23