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Fra Railroad Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sasser

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

As a n Inspection Specialist 1, Here's What You'll Do: Responsibilities * Learn and adhere to all ... FRA Railroad Safety Appliance Standards (Condensed Course) Hard Skills * Ability to apply common ...

Pinsly Railroad Company

Track Inspector

La Crosse, IN · On-site

Inspect railroad track structure for compliance with railroad policy and federal/state regulations ... the railroad. Manage other projects and perform other duties as assigned Knowledge of FRA Track ...

Hitachi

Track Inspector

Honolulu, HI · On-site

Plan and implement a program of periodic inspections to provide optimum coverage of the railroad track in accordance with the track maintenance and inspection standards, state regulations, and FRA ...

Sasser

Inspection Specialist

Meridian, MS · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

As a n Inspection Specialist 1, Here's What You'll Do: Responsibilities * Learn and adhere to all ... FRA Railroad Safety Appliance Standards (Condensed Course) Hard Skills * Ability to apply common ...

VLS Environmental Solutions

Inspector

Victoria, TX

Familiarity with safety standards and regulations related to rail car inspection, including AAR (Association of American Railroads) and FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) guidelines. * Experience:

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Fra Railroad Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do fra railroad inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for fra railroad inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a FRA inspector?

A FRA inspector is a federal employee responsible for ensuring railroad safety and compliance with regulations set by the Federal Railroad Administration. They conduct inspections of railroads, equipment, and operations, often requiring knowledge of safety standards, reporting procedures, and sometimes certifications in safety or engineering. Their work helps prevent accidents and maintain safe rail transportation.

What are some common challenges faced by an FRA Railroad Inspector, and how can new inspectors effectively address them?

FRA Railroad Inspectors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex regulations, working in various weather conditions, and staying up-to-date with evolving safety standards. New inspectors can overcome these challenges by actively participating in training programs, collaborating closely with experienced colleagues, and regularly reviewing updates from the Federal Railroad Administration. Developing strong communication skills is also essential, as the role involves coordinating with railroad staff and other inspectors to ensure compliance and resolve safety issues efficiently.

How much do FRA inspectors make?

FRA railroad inspectors typically earn an average salary between $60,000 and $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They perform safety inspections and ensure compliance with federal regulations in the rail industry, often working in environments that require attention to detail and knowledge of safety standards.

What is the difference between Fra Railroad Inspector vs FRA Railroad Safety Inspector?

AspectFra Railroad InspectorFRA Railroad Safety Inspector
CertificationsTypically requires railroad safety and inspection certificationsRequires FRA safety certifications and compliance training
Work EnvironmentOn-site inspections of railroads, tracks, and equipmentRegulatory oversight, audits, and safety compliance reviews
Employer & Industry UsageRailroad companies, inspection agenciesFederal Railroad Administration, government agencies

Both roles focus on railroad safety and inspections but differ in scope. Fra Railroad Inspectors often work directly for railroads, inspecting equipment and tracks, while FRA Railroad Safety Inspectors are government officials overseeing compliance across multiple companies. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in railroad safety and regulation.

What are FRA Railroad Inspectors?

FRA Railroad Inspectors are federal employees who work for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to ensure that railroads throughout the United States comply with federal safety regulations. They inspect railway equipment, infrastructure, and operating practices to identify and address any safety hazards. These inspectors play a crucial role in preventing accidents, promoting safe rail operations, and enforcing laws and regulations related to railroad safety. Their duties may also include investigating accidents and working with rail companies to correct safety violations.

How much do FRA agents make?

FRA Railroad Inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on seniority and the complexity of inspections performed, with some inspectors earning over $90,000 annually. The role often requires knowledge of safety regulations, technical skills, and adherence to federal standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an FRA Railroad Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an FRA Railroad Inspector, you need comprehensive knowledge of railroad operations, safety regulations, and inspection procedures, typically supported by a background in transportation or engineering and relevant FRA training. Familiarity with inspection tools, regulatory compliance systems, and data reporting software is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help inspectors identify safety issues and collaborate with railroad personnel. These skills are crucial for ensuring rail safety, regulatory compliance, and the prevention of accidents and hazards.

How to become a railroad inspector?

To become a railroad inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in railroad operations or maintenance. Many positions require passing written exams and physical assessments, and some employers prefer candidates with certifications such as the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) inspector training or related technical skills. On-the-job training is common, and inspectors often work in environments that require attention to safety regulations and technical standards.
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Fra Railroad Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fra Railroad Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 5% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Outbound Inspector

Outbound Inspector

VLS Environmental Solutions

Victoria, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

VLS Environmental Solutions, LLC, is a recognized leader in providing sustainability solutions, with three divisions providing industry-leading services. With a mission to innovate solutions to meet clients' sustainability goals, VLS has over 1,200 employees in 40+ locations across North America.

Waste Services

VLS Waste Services provides customized waste processing solutions for hazardous and non-hazardous industrial and commercial waste, including landfill diversion and sustainability programs, solidification of liquid waste, recycling, wastewater treatment, and waste sequestration.

Railcar Services

VLS Railcar Cleaning and Repair Services division provides specialty cleaning services for difficult-to-clean products, including chemicals, hardened materials, and pressurized gases, and comprehensive repair services for certified full-service repairs, tank car qualifications, and maintenance.

Marine Services

VLS Marine Services division offers state-of-the-art barge cleaning, repair, and gas-free facilities for various chemical solvents and downstream petroleum products.

The Outbound Inspector is responsible for inspecting completed rail cars for accuracy and conformance. This role ensures that rail cars are in compliance with industry, regulatory, and owner standards. To perform outbound inspection and audit shop work orders and customer estimate sheets, outlining repairs and/or modifications needed that meet customer, AAR/FRA, and VLS requirements. Inspects completed cars to ensure that high quality standards are met. Review completed work being released from internal departments or from repair location and perform a complete out-bound audit to ensure car has been repaired, modified, or coated per write-up, and meets AAR/FRA, customer and VLS requirements.

Job Duties:

  • Responsible for the safety of themselves and others in the shop.
  • Know and understand AAR/FRA requirements.
  • Can reference and understand customer requirements.
  • Is familiar, understands, and can operate VLS estimating system (Digital Rail).
  • Inspect repaired cars to ensure all AAR, FRA, and Customer requirements are satisfied.
  • Compare the work performed to the Work Order and report findings on applicable forms.
  • Review Work Order and all applicable forms for accuracy and completeness.
  • Perform a variety of duties as assigned such as analyzing drawings, performing inspections, assuring proper stenciling of cars, and other special duties which may be assigned.
  • Reads and understands Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
  • Interprets VLS instructions, customer requirements, and AAR/FRA Field Manual guidelines.
  • Performs all work in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Continually looking and suggesting ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the overall operation.
  • Responsible for housekeeping and orderly storage of gauges used in the inspection function
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Basic Requirements:

  • A minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in rail car inspection.
  • Strong attention to detail in identifying potential issues or safety hazards.
  • Knowledge of Regulations: Familiarity with safety standards and regulations related to rail car inspection, including AAR (Association of American Railroads) and FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) guidelines.
  • Experience inspecting a wide variety of rail car types (e.g., tank cars, flat cars, and hoppers).
  • Proficiency in identifying mechanical problems and using inspection tools effectively.
  • Ability to achieve Visual Testing Level II within the specified time frame required.
  • Able to read and comprehend basic drawings and scope of work.
  • Must possess basic math skills, addition, subtraction
  • Ability to clearly report findings and collaborate with maintenance and operations teams.
  • Familiarity with inspection software, data entry, and report generation.
  • Experience inspecting a wide variety of rail car types (e.g., tank cars, boxcars, flat cars).
  • Must be able to pass a physical, drug screen, and background check
  • Must be able to work M-F 6:30am-4:00pm and overtime to include weekends as needed
  • Must be able to work in various elements indoors/outdoors

Preferred Requirements:

  • Completion of vocational or technical courses related to mechanical systems, railway engineering, or related fields strongly
  • AWS Certified welding inspector or similar certification

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