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Federal Railroad Inspector Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Watco

Track Laborer - Manor, TX

Manor, TX · On-site

... inspect, repair, and maintain the railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient ... and federal and state regulations • Communicate professionally and effectively • Learn ...

New

Loram

Service Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

... inspections of company equipment in a railroad environment. Equal Opportunity Employer: Loram is an ... S. federal, state, and local laws, Brazil's anti-discrimination provisions under the Consolidation ...

Loram

Service Technician-CDL

Austin, TX · On-site

... inspections of company equipment in a railroad environment. Equal Opportunity Employer: Loram is an ... S. federal, state, and local laws, Brazil's anti-discrimination provisions under the Consolidation ...

Lhoist North America

Bulk Loader

Burnet, TX · On-site

... rail traffic. * Prior to loading product, inspect truck trailers and railcars to ensure they are ... Ensure a SQF workplace and follow regulatory compliance with Federal FDA - Food Modernization ...

Lhoist Group

Bulk Loader

Burnet, TX · On-site

... rail traffic. * Prior to loading product, inspect truck trailers and railcars to ensure they are ... Ensure a SQF workplace and follow regulatory compliance with Federal FDA - Food Modernization ...

Lhoist

Bulk Loader

Burnet, TX · On-site

... rail traffic. * Prior to loading product, inspect truck trailers and railcars to ensure they are ... Ensure a SQF workplace and follow regulatory compliance with Federal FDA - Food Modernization ...

Lhoist Group

Bulk Loader

Burnet, TX · On-site

... rail traffic. * Prior to loading product, inspect truck trailers and railcars to ensure they are ... Ensure a SQF workplace and follow regulatory compliance with Federal FDA - Food Modernization ...

Lhoist Group

Bulk Loader

Burnet, TX

... rail traffic. * Prior to loading product, inspect truck trailers and railcars to ensure they are ... Ensure a SQF workplace and follow regulatory compliance with Federal FDA - Food Modernization ...

RAILCREW XPRESS LLC

Taylor TX Driver

Taylor, TX · On-site

$15/hr

As a member of RCX you will be transporting railroad crews to various locations based on their ... Ability to bend, stop and stretch to complete vehicle inspection. * Ability to safely enter and ...

Loram

Electrical Engineer III

Georgetown, TX · On-site

... inspections of company equipment in a railroad environment Equal Opportunity Employer: Loram is an ... S. federal, state, and local laws, Brazil's anti-discrimination provisions under the Consolidation ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFederal Railroad Inspector JobsFederal Railroad Inspector Jobs in Austin, TX

Federal Railroad Inspector information

See Austin, TX salary details

$24.3K

$54.5K

$98.1K

How much do federal railroad inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal railroad inspector in Austin, TX is $54,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $62,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal railroad inspector?

Federal Railroad Inspectors are professionals employed by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to ensure that railroads in the United States comply with federal safety standards and regulations. They conduct routine inspections of railroad equipment, tracks, signals, and operations to identify potential safety hazards and enforce compliance with laws. Inspectors also investigate accidents, review maintenance records, and provide technical assistance to railroads to help improve safety. Their work is crucial in preventing accidents and ensuring the safe operation of the nation's rail system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal railroad inspector?

To thrive as a Federal Railroad Inspector, you need in-depth knowledge of railroad safety regulations, inspection procedures, and a background in engineering or transportation—usually supported by relevant experience or a degree. Familiarity with inspection tools, safety reporting systems, and federal compliance software is typically required. Keen attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for documenting findings and collaborating with railroad personnel. These skills ensure that inspectors can identify safety hazards, enforce regulations, and promote safe rail operations nationwide.

What are some common challenges faced by federal railroad inspectors during field inspections?

Federal Railroad Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in diverse weather conditions, navigating remote or difficult-to-access rail sites, and ensuring compliance across a broad range of safety regulations. Inspectors must maintain objectivity while interacting with railroad personnel and may need to address complex technical issues on-site. Additionally, balancing thorough inspection protocols with tight schedules requires strong organizational and communication skills.

What is the difference between Federal Railroad Inspector vs Railroad Safety Inspector?

AspectFederal Railroad InspectorRailroad Safety Inspector
CredentialsFederal certifications, safety training, railroad regulations knowledgeState or federal safety certifications, industry-specific safety training
Work EnvironmentInspecting railroads, safety compliance, on-site inspectionsMonitoring safety standards, conducting inspections, fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageFederal agencies (e.g., FRA), railroad companiesState agencies, railroad companies, safety organizations

Both roles focus on railroad safety and require similar certifications and fieldwork. The Federal Railroad Inspector primarily works for federal agencies ensuring compliance with national regulations, while Railroad Safety Inspectors may work at state or company levels, focusing on local safety standards.

How to become a federal railroad inspector?

To become a federal railroad inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in railroad operations or safety, and often must pass written exams and background checks. Certification from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and knowledge of safety regulations are also important for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Federal Railroad Inspector jobs in Austin, TX?

For Federal Railroad Inspector jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Railroad Inspector jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Railroad Inspector jobs in Austin, TX are:

Federal Railroad Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Railroad Inspector job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,456 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Track Laborer - Manor, TX

Manor, TX • On-site

Watco

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 366 rated logistics

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Good training

Learn more about Watcoexternal

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

The Track Laborer will be required to safely and efficiently inspect, repair, and maintain the railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service for our customers. This is a manual labor position, which requires that the individual becomes proficient in the following skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with inspecting, loading & unloading, distribution and installation of rail, rail components, cross ties, switch ties, ballasts, and other track materials
• Assist with inspecting, grinding, fabrication and repair of rail and track components
• Assist with inspection, maintenance, repair and construction of track turnouts, switch stands, and track infrastructure
• Assist with inspection, construction, demolition, and maintenance of track surface structure, gauge, tie removal and disposal, tie replacement and roadbed rehabilitation
• Inspect, protect, construct, maintain, and repair road crossings, bridges, culverts and tunnels, facilities, snow fences, signs and equipment
• Cut and dispose of vegetation using tools, equipment and manual labor
• Clean ice, snow, dirt and debris from switches
• Remove snow, ice or other foreign materials from track infrastructure
• Accurate and timely reporting as required
• Read and accurately interpret company documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and federal and state regulations
• Communicate professionally and effectively
• Learn, understand and apply a comprehensive understanding of track authority
• Comply with performance metrics measurements and deadlines
• Practice safe work habits and follow company and industry policies, procedures and regulations
• Respond promptly to any accident, incident or emergency call
• Read gauges, precision measuring instruments, schematics and maintenance manuals 100% of the time
• Operate equipment such as backhoe and track hoe
• Perform other duties as assigned or required 

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position.  

• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Class A CDL preferred

Must be able to pass the training courses below:
• Track Ground School
• Federal Railroad Administration General Code of Operating Rules written test
• Roadway Worker Protection Worker written test
• Fall Protection written test
• Maintenance of Way safety written test
• MSHA/OSHA training and certification (if required on site).

Education
Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent

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