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Contract Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Electrical Worker

Seattle, WA · On-site

$67.70 - $71.76/hr

This position has a bid process for shift and base per the IBEW contract. Shifts may change or base may change based on seniority, according to current contract. Rail Electrical Worker Shifts & Pay ...

Logistics Buyer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

The Logistics Buyer will analyze rail contract proposals, quantify cost impacts, support rail contract negotiations, and help optimize routings to ensure competitive and efficient service. The ideal ...

Logistics Buyer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

The Logistics Buyer will analyze rail contract proposals, quantify cost impacts, support rail contract negotiations, and help optimize routings to ensure competitive and efficient service. The ideal ...

The Logistics Buyer will analyze rail contract proposals, quantify cost impacts, support rail contract negotiations, and help optimize routings to ensure competitive and efficient service. The ideal ...

$70K - $90K/yr

The Logistics Buyer will analyze rail contract proposals, quantify cost impacts, support rail contract negotiations, and help optimize routings to ensure competitive and efficient service. The ideal ...

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Contract Railroad information

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$17

$26

$49

How much do contract railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract railroad in the United States is $26.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Railroad workers when adapting to different worksites and clients?

Contract Railroad workers often transition between various projects, each with unique operational standards, safety protocols, and client expectations. Adapting quickly to new environments, understanding site-specific rules, and communicating effectively with unfamiliar teams can be challenging. Building flexibility, staying current on safety certifications, and maintaining a proactive approach to learning site requirements help professionals excel in this fast-paced, variable work setting.

What is the difference between Contract Railroad vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectContract RailroadRailroad Conductor
CredentialsVaries, often includes safety certifications and experience in rail operationsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety training, and certification
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often on specific projects or short-term assignmentsEmployed by a railroad company, working on daily train operations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by various rail companies for flexible staffingEmployed directly by a railroad company, integral to train crew
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for employment flexibility and project-based workCompared for daily operational roles and responsibilities

In summary, Contract Railroad workers typically operate on a temporary or project basis, offering flexibility for rail companies, while Railroad Conductors are full-time employees responsible for train operations and safety. Both roles require safety certifications and industry knowledge but differ mainly in employment structure and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Railroad Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Railroad Worker, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety protocols, and equipment handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with track maintenance machinery, inspection tools, and sometimes certifications such as FRA track safety standards is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills are vital soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure safe, efficient railroad operations and help prevent accidents or costly delays.

What are contract railroad workers?

Contract railroad workers are professionals who are employed by third-party companies, rather than directly by a railroad company, to perform specialized tasks on railroads. Their work may include track construction, maintenance, repairs, inspections, or other services required to keep railroad operations running smoothly. This arrangement allows railroads to access skilled labor for specific projects or during peak periods without expanding their permanent workforce. Contract railroad workers often travel to various job sites and must follow strict safety and industry regulations.
More about Contract Railroad jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Railroad jobs? Cities with the most Contract Railroad job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad jobs? The most popular types of Railroad jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Railroad jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Railroad jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Railroad job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 6% Full Time, and 91% Part Time. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,445 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Manager - Financial & Contract Management

Manager - Financial & Contract Management

Metro-North Railroad

New York, NY

$90K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Metro-North Railroad rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 76 rated public transport


Job description

Job Title: Manager- Financial & Contract Management

Department: Office of the Chief Administrative Officer

MTA Agency: Metro-North Railroad

Primary Location(s): New York, NY

Salary Range: $90,919- $113,649

Regulated/Safety Sensitive: Non-DOT Regulated/Not Safety Sensitive

Union Affiliation: Non-agreement

Closing Date (if applicable): Until Filled

Shift (if applicable):

Title 55-a (yes or no): Not Applicable

Other: Telework eligible

ABOUT THE AGENCY

MTA Metro-North Railroad is a dynamic organization, operating out of the jewel of New York City, Grand Central Terminal. We provide service to over 86.5 million customers, traveling in and out of New York and Connecticut. A subsidiary of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Metro-North Railroad is one of the busiest commuter railroads in the nation. MTA Metro-North Railroad strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities for its employees.

Metro-North Railroad reserves the right to remove this posting before the Application Deadline.

JOB SUMMARY

Oversees facilities and operational contracts, managing the full procurement lifecycle from scope development through vendor coordination and compliance. Acts as a liaison across vendors, internal teams, and the Business Service Center to ensure accurate invoicing, timely payments, and issue resolution. Supports financial operations by processing high-volume invoices, maintaining tracking systems, and performing analysis to ensure accuracy and audit readiness. Assists with payroll and expense oversight and coordinates emergency work order documentation.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Project manager for the Facilities Refuse and Recycling Removal contract portfolio (80+ purchase orders) across New York and Connecticut, MNR printing service contracts ; and other contracts to be determined based on organizational need.
  • Develop contract scopes of work, cost estimates, and requisitions; partner with Procurement to support end-to-end contract acquisition and bid processes. Prepare and submit technical specifications and required procurement documentation (including procurement request and cybersecurity forms); review bid packages and contract documents for accuracy and compliance.
  • Serve as a liaison between vendors, the Business Service Center, and internal departments to process invoices, resolve discrepancies, and respond to inquiries. Collaborate with user departments to support operational needs and service delivery.
  • Process high-volume invoices across multiple service areas, including refuse and recycling, heating fuel, pest control, printing services, bottle less water coolers, facility furniture, Amtrak passenger billing, corporate credit cards, and other operational expenses. Support Service Design project managers by processing monthly invoices for key operational services such as ferry operations, parking programs, rail link services, and guaranteed ride programs. Reconcile invoices, investigate discrepancies, and resolve voucher mismatches to ensure accurate and timely payments.
  • Maintain detailed tracking systems, including master receipting and requisition logs, to ensure financial accuracy and audit readiness. Perform ad hoc financial analysis and administrative support to improve operational efficiency and reporting.
  • Coordinate with the Chief Rail Traffic Controller to prepare and submit emergency work order documentation to the Controller’s Office
  • Assist in the review, analysis, and reporting of payroll and non-payroll expenses to support organizational financial oversight
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Complies with all policies and standards
  • May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
  • Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
  • Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable
  • Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable
  • Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable
     

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required:

  • Working knowledge of contracts management, procurement, account payable, budget, general ledger, and PeopleSoft financial systems.
  • Excellent communications skills, with the ability to interact with vendors, MNR Operations Departments and MTA Agencies. 
  • Strong problem-solving skills, analytical skills, attentions to details and hardworking.  Ability to multi-task and manage requests from vendors and MNR Operations Departments.
  • Familiarity with contract procedures, documentations and requisitions.
  • Strong Knowledge of MS Office Suite (Excel and MS Word).
  • Strong motivator, self-starter with strong interpersonal skills, and team player.

The following is/are preferred:

  • Familiarity with MNR Financial Systems.
  • Familiarity with transportation operations (railroad operations preferred).
  • Familiarity with MNR and MTA contract procedures and documentation.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  1. Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) Finance and Accounting or related degree. Demonstrated equivalent experience, education, and/or technical credentials to include four (4) years of related experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
  2. Minimum 5 years increasingly responsible complex role in the field of contract management, financial analysis and budget development and controls.
  3. Minimum 3 years managing a staff, process or projects.

The following is/are preferred: None

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Required: None

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).
  • Final salary is determined experience, skillset, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.
  • Employees driving company vehicles will be subject to License Monitoring and must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
  • To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers and encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.

If you seek a reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability, or for a religious practice or observance, to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.

HOW TO APPLY:

For Internal Applicants: Log in to the My MTA Portal, click on the My Job Search tile, select the Careers link, search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the on-screen instructions.

For External Applicants: Visit www.mta.info, click the “Careers” link located in the footer under the "The MTA" section, then click on “See All Open MTA Positions”. Search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the instructions.


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