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Class Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Mechanic

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$23.40/hr

Inspect railcars for damage, wear, mechanical issues, and repair needs Perform general mechanical and structural repairs on railroad equipment Complete Class I air brake tests according to applicable ...

New

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Mechanic

Baltimore, MD

$23.40/hr

Inspect railcars for damage, wear, mechanical issues, and repair needs Perform general mechanical and structural repairs on railroad equipment Complete Class I air brake tests according to applicable ...

Posted today

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How much do class railroad jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average weekly pay for class railroad in the United States is $1,444.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,250.00 and $1,625.00 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Class I railroads?

Class I Railroads are the largest freight railroad companies in the United States, defined by their annual operating revenue, which is set by the Surface Transportation Board and adjusted for inflation (about $900 million as of 2021). These railroads operate vast networks across North America and play a critical role in transporting goods such as coal, agricultural products, and manufactured goods. Examples of Class I Railroads include Union Pacific, BNSF Railway, CSX, and Norfolk Southern. They are essential to the nation's supply chain and economy, moving large volumes of freight efficiently over long distances.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working for a Class I railroad, and how can they be addressed?

Working for a Class I railroad often involves irregular hours, complex logistics, and strict safety protocols. Employees may face long shifts, time away from home, and variable schedules, especially in operational roles. Adapting to these challenges requires strong time management, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety. Many companies offer comprehensive training, support networks, and opportunities to move into roles with more predictable schedules over time, helping employees balance work and personal life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Class I railroad worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Class I Railroad worker, you need a solid understanding of rail operations, safety regulations, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with railroad signaling systems, track inspection tools, and computerized scheduling software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring safety and efficiency. These competencies are vital because they help maintain safe rail operations, minimize delays, and support the smooth movement of freight and passengers.

What is the difference between Class Railroad vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectClass RailroadSignal Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, relevant certificationsHigh school diploma, signal system certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance facilitiesSignal systems, trackside equipment, control centers
Industry UsageMajor railroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroads, transit agencies, freight companies

Class Railroad workers perform a variety of roles related to train operations, maintenance, and safety, often involving track work and equipment handling. Signal Maintainers specialize in maintaining and repairing signal systems that ensure safe train movement. While both roles work within the railroad industry and require technical skills, Signal Maintainers focus specifically on signaling systems, making their work more specialized within the broader Class Railroad workforce.

Is it hard to get hired on the class railroad?

Getting hired as a railroad conductor or engineer can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, a clean safety record, and passing written and physical tests. Many positions also require completion of training programs and obtaining certifications such as a locomotive engineer license, making the hiring process rigorous but achievable for qualified candidates.

What cities are hiring for Class Railroad jobs?

Cities with the most Class Railroad job openings:

What states have the most Class Railroad jobs?

States with the most job openings for Class Railroad jobs include:

Class Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Class Railroad job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,106 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Railroad Mechanic

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Road & Rail Services
Trucking • 1 - 5K employees

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Respectful managers

Learn more about Road & Rail Servicesexternal

$23.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Railcar Mechanic - First Shift
Pay: $23.40 per hour
Schedule: First Shift
Company: Road & Rail Services
Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Put Your Mechanical Skills to Work
Road & Rail Services is hiring a mechanically inclined Railcar Mechanic for our first-shift operation. This hands-on position is responsible for inspecting railcars, identifying mechanical concerns, completing authorized repairs, and performing required brake testing.
Previous railcar repair experience is helpful but not required. Candidates with experience repairing farm equipment, lawn equipment, automobiles, trailers, heavy machinery, or other mechanical systems may have skills that transfer well to this position.
We are looking for someone who enjoys troubleshooting, working with tools, and learning new repair techniques. The ideal candidate will be dependable, safety-focused, and prepared to work in a fast-paced industrial environment.
What You'll Do
As a Railcar Mechanic, you will:
Inspect railcars for damage, wear, mechanical issues, and repair needs
Perform general mechanical and structural repairs on railroad equipment
Complete Class I air brake tests according to applicable procedures
Use welding equipment, cutting torches, grinders, and hand tools
Identify and report bad-order or unserviceable railcars and equipment
Complete repairs according to company, customer, and industry specifications
Notify management of equipment conditions and additional repair needs
Accurately document completed repairs, labor time, and parts used
Operate forklifts, spotter trucks, and other mechanical equipment as authorized
Inspect tools and equipment before use
Maintain an organized work area and complete required housekeeping duties
Follow all company, customer, and railroad safety requirements
What You'll Need
Qualified candidates should have:
A valid state-issued driver's license
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
The ability and willingness to learn railcar inspection and repair procedures
The ability to qualify under AWS D15.1 welding certification guidelines
The ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, grinders, cutting torches, and welding equipment
Dependable attendance and punctuality
A safety-first approach to every assignment
The ability to follow written and verbal instructions
A positive, team-oriented attitude
The ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment
Benefits
Road & Rail Services offers eligible full-time employees:
Starting pay of $23.40 per hour
First-shift schedule
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan with company matching
Paid holidays and vacation
Annual steel-toe boot allowance
Company-provided personal protective equipment
Hands-on training and skill development
Advancement opportunities
A veteran-friendly workplace
A promote-from-within culture
Build Your Career with Road & Rail Services
Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services has become a leading provider of rail-related services throughout North America. Our employees provide plant and terminal operations, railcar repair, field maintenance, and other specialized services for railroads, manufacturers, shippers, and rail equipment owners.
If you have mechanical ability, take pride in quality work, and want to learn a specialized trade, apply today for our first-shift Railcar Mechanic position.
Road & Rail Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
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