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Principal Rail Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fifth Third Bank

Principal Ruby on Rails Engineer

Principal Ruby on Rails Engineer Total Base Pay Range 96,500.00 - 207,500.00 USD Annual At Fifth Third, we understand the importance of recognizing our employees for the role they play in improving ...

Veem

Principal Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

Principal Engineer Location: Toronto (preferred), Ottawa, California About Veem Veem is building ... We are transforming how businesses move money internationally through modern fintech rails ...

Northwoods

Principal Engineer

Dublin, OH

We are hiring a Principal Engineer to carry dual accountability: deliver Traverse product features ... Full-stack proficiency across a modern web stack; direct experience with Ruby on Rails, React ...

Northwoods

Principal Engineer

Dublin, OH · On-site

We are hiring a Principal Engineer to carry dual accountability: deliver Traverse product features ... Full-stack proficiency across a modern web stack; direct experience with Ruby on Rails, React ...

Northwoods

Principal Engineer

Dublin, OH · On-site

We are hiring a Principal Engineer to carry dual accountability: deliver Traverse product features ... Full-stack proficiency across a modern web stack; direct experience with Ruby on Rails, React ...

OfficeSpace Software

OR

$134K - $180K/yr

As our Principal Software Engineer (Ruby/React), you don't just ship features-you architect systems ... Lead the technical direction for Ruby on Rails and React applications across the platform. * Design ...

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All JobsPrincipal Rail Engineer Jobs

Principal Rail Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal rail engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal rail engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal Rail Engineer vs Senior Rail Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Rail EngineerSenior Rail Engineer
QualificationsTypically requires a degree in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering; Chartered status often preferredRequires relevant engineering degree; Chartered status advantageous but less common
Work EnvironmentLeads large projects, oversees teams, and liaises with stakeholdersExecutes technical tasks, supports project delivery, and mentors junior staff
ResponsibilitiesStrategic planning, project management, and technical leadershipDesign, analysis, and technical problem-solving within projects

The main difference between a Principal Rail Engineer and a Senior Rail Engineer lies in their scope of responsibility. The Principal Rail Engineer typically holds a leadership role, managing large projects and teams, while the Senior Rail Engineer focuses on technical execution and supporting project delivery. Both roles require relevant engineering qualifications and industry experience, but the Principal position involves more strategic oversight and stakeholder engagement.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Rail Engineers and other senior engineering roles in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, and software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High salaries are often associated with roles requiring advanced technical skills, project management, and industry expertise.

What does a principal engineer get paid?

A principal rail engineer typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior-level engineering roles often include additional benefits such as bonuses and professional development opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Rail Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Rail Engineer, you need extensive experience in rail infrastructure design, project management, and a relevant engineering degree, often chartered status (CEng or equivalent). Mastery of industry-specific software such as Bentley Rail Track, AutoCAD, and BIM systems, as well as knowledge of rail standards and safety regulations, is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient delivery of complex rail projects and uphold industry standards.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically executive roles such as Chief Operating Officer or Vice President of Rail Operations, which can earn six-figure salaries. Senior engineering positions like Rail Project Directors or specialized roles such as Rail Safety Directors also tend to have high compensation, especially with extensive experience and industry certifications.

What are Principal Rail Engineers?

Principal Rail Engineers are senior professionals who lead the design, planning, and delivery of rail infrastructure projects. They oversee teams of engineers, provide technical guidance, and ensure that projects meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Their responsibilities often include project management, stakeholder coordination, risk assessment, and mentoring junior staff. Principal Rail Engineers typically have extensive experience in civil or rail engineering and play a key role in the successful completion of rail projects.

What engineers make $500,000?

Principal Rail Engineers in the transportation industry can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High compensation is often associated with senior positions, specialized skills, and working in regions with high demand for rail infrastructure expertise.

What are the main challenges a Principal Rail Engineer typically faces when leading multidisciplinary rail projects?

Principal Rail Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multiple engineering disciplines, balancing project timelines with regulatory compliance, and managing stakeholder expectations. They must effectively oversee design, construction, and safety standards while ensuring that all technical requirements are met. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential, as they frequently collaborate with project managers, contractors, and public agencies to deliver complex rail infrastructure projects on time and within budget.
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Principal Rail Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Rail Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.
Full time and part time Rails developer

Full time and part time Rails developer

Barbershop Labs

Framingham, MA • On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Barbershop Labs is hiring a full time, and a part-time (10-20hrs/week) Rails developer.
The ideal candidates have:
  • 3+ years of Rails development experience.
  • Experience building consumer-facing web applications.
  • Comfort working across the entire stack.
  • Unquenchable thirst for learning new things.

We are a small Rails & mobile development shop based in Framingham, MA. I founded the company last September after spending 15+ years leading engineering and product development teams for a variety of startups. We pay well, work hard, build great software, avoid bureaucracy, and have a lot of fun in the process.
Please send an intro email containing your LinkedIn, Github, and any other relevant URLs to jobs@barbershoplabs.com. No attached resumes, please.
Principals only, no recruiters.

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