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$788

$1.4K

$1.9K

How much do class railroad jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 1, 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 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 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 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 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.

More about Class Railroad jobs
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:
What job categories do people searching Class Railroad jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Class Railroad jobs are:
Class Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Class Railroad job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Full Time, and 98% Part Time. Highlights an 25% Physical, 25% Hybrid, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,106 per year, or $36.1 per hour.
Railroad Flagger

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Railroad Flagger
Location: Santa Maria, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Compensation: $25 - $37 based on experience

Job Description:

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is hiring a Railroad Flagger. This role keeps workers safe on train tracks by controlling train movements and following federal safety rules. The job supports major railroads, smaller rail lines, transit systems, state transportation projects, and contractors.

Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Class 1 Railroad, Regional Short Line, Transit System, State DOT Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Railroad Contractor, and/or Railroad Consultant; preferably within the Maintenance Of Way (MOW) Department.

Job Requirements:

  • Skilled with basic computer tools, including Citrix, email, phone, and texting apps
  • Comfortable using Android tablets and smartphones
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • Good verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety
  • Able to build and maintain strong client relationships
  • Willing to travel for long periods (even months at a time)
  • Able to complete required federal, client, and company training

Job Duties:

  • Coordinate activities at the job site
  • Communicate clearly with dispatchers, train crews, railroad staff, and contractors
  • Lead safety briefings before work begins
  • Follow and enforce all railroad, state, and federal rules
  • Ensure contractors meet training requirements
  • Spot and address any rule violations
  • Complete daily reports on work activities
  • Maintain on-track safety following federal regulations

Work Environment:

This job operates in a field environment.

  • Must communicate clearly in English (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Must be willing to travel or drive long distances
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and walk on uneven ground
  • Must have good vision (near, far, color, and peripheral)
  • Must handle extreme weather (hot and cold)
  • Must work in dusty and noisy environments
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Short-Term, Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Keywords: Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Foreman, Foremen, Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.

Company Profile: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project.

Safety Commitment: All employees at NRSS must always prioritize safety. No job is so urgent that it can't be done safely. Safety is a core value, ensuring the protection of workers, customers, and communities while maintaining leadership in railroad safety.

Closing Statement: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Any candidate selected for this position must be able to successfully pass pre-employment/recurrent background checks, drug/alcohol testing, and classroom training.


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