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Progress Rail Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Laborer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is ... PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES The laborer position is an entry level position that should progress to ...

IA

$89K/yr

... of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to motive power ... progress and evaluates outcomes. * Oral Communication - Makes clear and convincing oral ...

IA

$89K/yr

... of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to motive power ... progress and evaluates outcomes. * Oral Communication - Makes clear and convincing oral ...

Laborer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is ... PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES The laborer position is an entry level position that should progress to ...

Laborer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is ... PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES  The laborer position is an entry level position that should progress ...

Laborer

Keokuk, IA

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is ... PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES  The laborer position is an entry level position that should progress ...

$14 - $18.50/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... A Company Invested in Your Growth (Progress): Through continuous improvement of our systems ...

$14 - $18.50/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... A Company Invested in Your Growth (Progress): Through continuous improvement of our systems ...

IA · On-site

$89K/yr

... of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to motive power ... progress and evaluates outcomes. * Oral Communication - Makes clear and convincing oral ...

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Progress Rail information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$31

$68

How much do progress rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for progress rail in Iowa is $31.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.06 and $41.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Progress Rail employee and what do they do?

A Progress Rail employee works for Progress Rail, a company that provides railroad and transit products and services. Employees may be involved in manufacturing, engineering, servicing, or maintaining railway equipment such as locomotives, track, and signaling systems. Their roles support the safety, efficiency, and reliability of rail operations worldwide. Depending on their specific job, they might work in the field, at a manufacturing plant, or in a corporate office. Progress Rail is a subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc.

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

To thrive as a Progress Rail technician, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, experience with heavy machinery, and often a technical diploma or certification. Familiarity with diagnostic software, rail industry safety protocols, and equipment-specific tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure reliable equipment maintenance, operational safety, and efficient collaboration within rail industry environments.

What is the difference between Progress Rail vs Railroad Technician?

AspectProgress RailRailroad Technician
CertificationsManufacturing and maintenance certifications, such as ASE or OEM-specific trainingRailroad safety and operational certifications, including OSHA and FRA compliance
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, repair shops, and field maintenance sitesRail yards, trackside, and on-site at railroads
Industry UsageHeavy equipment manufacturing, locomotive and railcar maintenanceRailroad operations, track inspection, and repair

Progress Rail technicians focus on manufacturing, repairing, and maintaining rail equipment in industrial settings, while railroad technicians work directly on rail infrastructure and operational systems in the field. Both roles require technical skills but differ in work environment and specific certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working at Progress Rail, and how does the company support their professional development?

Employees at Progress Rail often work in dynamic environments that require adapting to evolving technology and industry standards. Common challenges include balancing production schedules with safety protocols and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams, sometimes in global settings. To support professional growth, Progress Rail offers training programs, mentorship opportunities, and pathways for advancement within the organization, enabling employees to build their skills and take on greater responsibilities over time.
What are popular job titles related to Progress Rail jobs in Iowa? For Progress Rail jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Progress Rail job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,812 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

$24 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Progress Rail rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

318th of 486 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Purpose
This position is responsible for operating various hand-welding and flame-cutting equipment to weld, fabricate or join work pieces together. Work involves safe use of various hand and power tools common to the welding trade along with various welding methods such as MIG or Stick
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world's largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in operation across more than 100 countries-powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail-they are making history every day.
Education / Training
• 3-6 years welding experience;
• High School Diploma or GED;
• Vocational / technical training and certification;
Key Job Elements
• Starting wage $24-25/hour dependent on skills and experience;
• Position will work M-Th, 10 hour day shifts. Mandatory overtime as needed;
• Pass internal welding certification in conjunction with requirements under ISO, AAR, and other regulatory agencies;
• Retrieve materials assembled and weld into a finished product;
• Set up components for welding according to specifications (e.g. cut material with powered saws to match measurements);
• Operate angle grinders to prepare the parts that must be welded;
• Interpret welding blueprints, assembly instructions, drawings, JSA's, and bills of material;
• Maintaining welding proficiency as required by Progress Rail QSP 4.9 as well as any applicable local and international standards;
• Candidate must be able to accurately use measuring devices such as tape measures, scales, and calipers;
• Must be able to measure and record the required inspection information;
• Candidate must be able to use various hand tools as well as pneumatic and electric powered grinders and impact wrenches, as well as overhead cranes to transport components into and out of the work area;
Advanced duties and responsibilities
• Mastery of various welds such as pipe weld, GMAW, SMAW, etc. in all positions;
• Certification to a recognized welding standard such as AWS D1.1;
• Perform single and multi-pass welds in all positions;
• Ability to perform preventative and basic maintenance of weld machines and equipment; change out wire and gas bottles as needed;
• Weld components using manual or semi-automatic welding equipment in various positions (vertical, horizontal or overhead);
• Ability to train others;
• Forklift certified;
• Any other duties assigned
Qualifications and Experience
• Prior welding or grinder experience preferred;
• Ability to multitask and work with minimal supervision;
• Must be able to read and write legibly;
• Strong attention to detail with ability to inspect work using measuring devices;
• Must be quality oriented and a team player;
• Must have complete understanding of safe work practices;
• Specific site qualifications and progression may apply, consult with local team;
• Skill Level I - < 1-year experience, or no previous experience as a welder;
• Skill Level II - 1-2 year of experience as a welder;
• Skill Level III - 2-3 years of experience as a welder, certification in GMAW and FCAW preferred. Technical certifications can substitute for experience;
• Skill Level IV - 4-5 years of experience as a certified welder. Additional SMAW welding certifications preferred;
• Skill Level V - 5+ years of experience as a certified welder with all previous certifications
Essential and Physical Activities Functions
• Strength - Position requires lifting up to 50 lbs. Requires stamina and strength to work in tight and
confined spaces;
• Motion - Position requires the ability to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms
and legs and moving the whole body, such as climbing, reaching, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and
kneeling. Position requires remaining in a stationary position for prolonged periods. Position requires
working from heights exceeding 6 ft. off the ground with proper PPE and fall protection;
• Vision/Hearing Requirements - Position is exposed to UV and reflected radiation from a welding arc or
torch. Position is exposed to high levels of noise and vibration from using tools. The use of proper PPE is
required. The position requires the ability to read written instruction and understand both verbal and
written instructions;
• Work Environment - Position can be located inside or outside dependent on situation. When inside the
employees are subject to temperature extremes in non-temperature-controlled environments. When
outside employees are subject to all weather elements;
• Emotional Demands - Employee is expected to work and cooperate as part of a team in order to meet
production requirements;
• Safety - Position is safety sensitive as it requires working in and around live tracks and operation and
repair of heavy equipment. Position requires strict adherence to safety policies (i.e. blue flag) and use of
all required PPE.
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.**
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Education Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
  • Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
  • Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs

*Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
**Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

What Progress Rail employees say

Pay

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About Progress Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our team works hard to create lifelong customer relationships, supplying comprehensive rolling stock and infrastructure solutions for the global rail industry and setting the standard for excellence. We care about fostering the sustainable movement of goods and people for generations to come, and we know our customers care, too. Our strategic footprint ensures responsive, quality customer support all day, every day. We are one of the largest integrated diversified providers of rolling stock and infrastructure solutions and technologies for the global rail industry. The company provides advanced EMD® locomotives, engines, and technologies, railcars, trackwork, fasteners, signaling, rail welding and Kershaw® Maintenance-of-Way equipment, along with dedicated locomotive and freight car repair services, aftermarket parts support and recycling operations. Progress Rail’s deep industry expertise ensures a commitment to quality through innovative solutions.

Industry

Consumer goods and commercial equipment rental services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Albertville, AL, US

Year founded

1983