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Entry Level Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Management Services

Railroad Laborer

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

**NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED* - Entry-level Position - Hiring Immediately! PRS Auto is seeking individuals to unload (drive) new automobiles off of Railcars at the Norfolk Southern Walkertown, NC rail ...

Rail Management Services

Railroad Laborer

Waverly, VA · On-site

$17/hr

This is an entry-level position with the opportunity for growth for individuals who are interested in a career in the railroad industry. We have several locations throughout the country and pride ...

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How much do entry level railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level railroad in the United States is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Railroad Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Railroad Worker, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, mechanical aptitude, and basic knowledge of railway operations. Familiarity with safety protocols, hand tools, and, in some cases, certification in track safety or signal systems is important. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help ensure safety and efficiency on the job. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining safe railway operations and ensuring the smooth movement of trains and cargo.

What is the difference between Entry Level Railroad vs Entry Level Locomotive Engineer?

AspectEntry Level RailroadEntry Level Locomotive Engineer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require safety trainingHigh school diploma; certification or licensing often required
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance facilitiesLocomotive cabs, train yards, on-track operations
Employer & Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight and passenger servicesRailroad companies, freight and passenger services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in railroadsLearning about starting careers as locomotive engineers

Entry Level Railroad positions typically involve working in rail yards or maintenance facilities with minimal licensing requirements. In contrast, Entry Level Locomotive Engineers focus on operating trains and often require specific certifications or licensing. Both roles are essential in the railroad industry, but they differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level railroad workers, and how can new hires effectively adapt to them?

Entry-level railroad workers often encounter challenges such as adjusting to irregular work hours, working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. New hires can adapt by maintaining good physical fitness, staying vigilant about safety procedures, and being open to learning from more experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being flexible with scheduling will also help new employees succeed and grow within the railroad industry.

What are entry level railroad jobs?

Entry level railroad jobs are positions within the rail industry that typically require little or no prior railroad experience. Common roles include track laborers, conductors, signal maintainers, and locomotive trainees. These positions involve tasks such as inspecting and maintaining tracks, assisting with train operations, and ensuring safety standards are met. Most entry level jobs offer on-the-job training and require a high school diploma or GED. They are ideal for individuals looking to start a career in the railroad industry and often provide opportunities for advancement.
More about Entry Level Railroad jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Railroad jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level 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 Entry Level Railroad jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Railroad jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Railroad jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Railroad jobs are:
Entry Level Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Railroad job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,417 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Civil Railway Engineer - Entry Level (EIT)

Civil Railway Engineer - Entry Level (EIT)

Hanson Professional Services, Inc.

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$74K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Hanson Values
Integrity | Commitment | Quality | Relationships | Innovation
If you're looking for a firm that encourages innovative thinking and challenges you every day, with an opportunity to learn and advance, a career at Hanson is right for you. The belief in sustainability within our company's practices creates a focus on client success and partnerships that are important to our communities and our environment.
Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking a candidate to fill a full time Civil/Railway position.
At the core of our Transportation practice is the desire to be good stewards of the public's resources while incorporating improvements into the surrounding environment. As engineering professionals, we plan, design and permit railway projects and observe construction efforts across the U.S. and abroad. Your work at Hanson will balance the societal benefits of the built-environment with nature.
Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking a candidate to fill a full-time Civil Railway Engineer - Entry Level (EIT) position in one of the following offices:
Kansas City
Chicago
St Louis
Springfield, IL
Peoria
Corpus Christi
Houston
Sarasota
Indy
McHenry
Bellevue
A Day in Life of a Civil Railway Engineer (EIT) at Hanson
This position will be primarily responsible for design of railroad track and yard projects and related construction observation efforts. Position requires the ability to work on a variety of projects, take direction from multiple supervisors, and coordinate with other staff. If you have a passion for transportation engineering and would like to bring your career to the next level, this role will provide entry level individuals with the opportunity to learn and grow. More experienced candidates will have the opportunity to expand their project repertoire and enhance their leadership skills.
  • Construction Observer portion of role
    • Coordinate and communicate field construction activities with contractor and designers
    • Coordinate and observe onsite materials testing
  • Designer/ Engineer portion of role
    • Lead or assist with field investigations, analysis, calculations, and preparation of civil plans, specifications, and estimates on rail related projects.

What We're Looking For
We feel the following qualifications would set you up for success in this role:
Skills:
  • CAD experience and/or willingness to learn MicroStation
  • Experience designing with Microstation Connect / Open Roads is a plus
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team to develop and present concepts.
  • Must be able to build effective relationships with internal and external client bases.
  • Strong oral communication and technical writing skills.
  • Strong sense of urgency and self-initiative to meet client deadlines.

Education/Experience:
  • 0-3 years of experience: Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field, is required.
  • FE/Engineer in Training Certification.
  • 3-6 years' experience: Bachelor's degree in civil engineering with appropriate course work in the civil/transportation discipline P.E. License, or ability to be licensed within 1 year of employment is required. Experience performing transportation related design or providing rail construction observation or construction management a plus. Master's degree in civil engineering a plus.
  • 6+ years of experience: Bachelor's degree in civil engineering with appropriate course work in the civil/transportation discipline P.E. License, or ability to be licensed within 6 months is required. A minimum of 2 years' experience performing railroad design using AREMA/freight rail design standards or providing rail construction observation or construction management preferred. Master's degree in civil engineering a plus.

Pay Range: $74,000 - $110,000 per year, depending on level of experience.
Benefits
Our focus on people means we offer a generous benefits program to help you create a solid foundation for health and security throughout your career, including:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Performance bonuses
  • 401(k) with matching contribution
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • Comprehensive health & well-being plans
  • Financial wellness plans
  • Work-life balance programs

Want to know more? Visit our benefits page for all the details.
Culture
We understand that selecting a job is about more than the day-to-day tasks. It's important to feel like you belong and safe to grow and progress along your career path. You'll find that at Hanson. We have an inclusive, diverse workforce awaiting to connect with you and numerous opportunities to cultivate your career, including:
  • Monthly educational webinars
  • Leadership training
  • Lunch & learn development sessions
  • 24/7 access to thousands of skill-building courses
  • Mentorship opportunities
  • Award-winning internship program
  • Employee recognition
  • And so much more!

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EEO - EMPLOYER
We do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or agencies/staffing firms. Resumes are only accepted from recruiters and agency/staffing firms if a signed agreement is in place at the inception of the recruiting effort and authorized for a specified position.

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