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Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Mechanic

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$23.40/hr

Road & Rail Services Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site Put Your Mechanical Skills to Work Road & Rail Services is hiring a mechanically inclined Railcar Mechanic for our first-shift operation. This hands ...

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Mechanic

Wausau, WI · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Wausau, WI Pay: $25.00-$28.00 per hour, based on experience Job Type: Full-Time Build Your Skilled-Trade Career with Road & Rail Services Road & Rail Services is hiring a dependable and safety ...

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Mechanic

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$23.40/hr

Road & Rail Services Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site Put Your Mechanical Skills to Work Road & Rail Services is hiring a mechanically inclined Railcar Mechanic for our first-shift operation. This hands ...

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Mechanic

Wausau, WI · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Wausau, WI Pay: $25.00-$28.00 per hour, based on experience Job Type: Full-Time Build Your Skilled-Trade Career with Road & Rail Services Road & Rail Services is hiring a dependable and safety ...

Road & Rail Services

Traveling Railroad Carman

Burnet, TX · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Austin, TX Pay: $28.00 - $34.00 per hour Road & Rail Services is seeking an experienced Traveling Railcar Repairman / Carman to join our team. This is a travel position for someone with hands-on ...

Road & Rail Services

Traveling Railroad Carman

Burnet, TX · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Austin, TX Pay: $28.00 - $34.00 per hour Road & Rail Services is seeking an experienced Traveling Railcar Repairman / Carman to join our team. This is a travel position for someone with hands-on ...

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How much do railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad in the United States is $31.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a railroad worker do?

Railroad workers are professionals who help build, maintain, and operate trains and railway systems. Their roles can include conducting trains, maintaining tracks and equipment, inspecting rail cars, and ensuring the safe and efficient transport of goods and passengers. Some common job titles within the railroad industry are locomotive engineer, conductor, track laborer, and signal operator. Railroad workers often work outdoors, sometimes in challenging weather conditions, and may work irregular hours depending on train schedules. Safety is a top priority, and workers must follow strict protocols to prevent accidents.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Worker, you need strong mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized on-the-job training. Familiarity with rail-specific tools, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) or Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) certification is important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital for maintaining safety, efficiency, and smooth operations in the demanding railroad environment.

What jobs in the railroad industry are in demand?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the railroad industry estimated to increase in demand over the coming years include rail yard engineers, dinkey operators, and hostlers. Other jobs, such as locomotive engineers, conductors, and switch operators are all projected to decline due to increased automation and the building of new pipelines which will make it easier for gas and other natural resources companies to bypass rail.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad workers, and how are they addressed on the job?

Railroad workers often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, adhering to strict safety protocols, and managing irregular or long shifts. To address these, rail companies invest in comprehensive safety training, provide appropriate protective gear, and maintain clear communication protocols among team members. Additionally, teamwork is emphasized, as many tasks require close coordination with conductors, engineers, and maintenance crews to ensure smooth and safe operations.

What is the difference between Railroad vs Train Conductor?

AspectRailroadTrain Conductor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, certificationsHigh school diploma, safety training, certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, stationsOnboard trains, stations, depots
Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight and passenger servicesRailroad companies, passenger and freight trains
Job FocusOperating and maintaining trains, safetyManaging passenger boarding, safety, and communication

Railroad and Train Conductor roles share similar credentials, work environments, and industry usage. While railroad workers focus on operating and maintaining trains, train conductors primarily manage passenger safety and boarding processes. Both roles are essential in the railroad industry, often overlapping but with distinct responsibilities.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired as a railroad worker can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications such as safety training or a commercial driver's license. Employers typically conduct background checks and drug tests, and some positions may require apprenticeships or prior related work experience.
More about Railroad jobs

What cities are hiring for Railroad jobs?

Cities with the most 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 Railroad jobs?

States with the most job openings for Railroad jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Railroad jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad jobs are:

Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,161 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Railroad Mechanic

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Road & Rail Services
Trucking • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Road & Rail Servicesexternal

$23.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Road & Rail Services rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Railcar Mechanic – First Shift

Pay: $23.40 per hour
Schedule: First Shift
Company: Road & Rail Services
Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site

Put Your Mechanical Skills to Work

Road & Rail Services is hiring a mechanically inclined Railcar Mechanic for our first-shift operation. This hands-on position is responsible for inspecting railcars, identifying mechanical concerns, completing authorized repairs, and performing required brake testing.

Previous railcar repair experience is helpful but not required. Candidates with experience repairing farm equipment, lawn equipment, automobiles, trailers, heavy machinery, or other mechanical systems may have skills that transfer well to this position.

We are looking for someone who enjoys troubleshooting, working with tools, and learning new repair techniques. The ideal candidate will be dependable, safety-focused, and prepared to work in a fast-paced industrial environment.

What You'll Do

As a Railcar Mechanic, you will:

Inspect railcars for damage, wear, mechanical issues, and repair needs

Perform general mechanical and structural repairs on railroad equipment

Complete Class I air brake tests according to applicable procedures

Use welding equipment, cutting torches, grinders, and hand tools

Identify and report bad-order or unserviceable railcars and equipment

Complete repairs according to company, customer, and industry specifications

Notify management of equipment conditions and additional repair needs

Accurately document completed repairs, labor time, and parts used

Operate forklifts, spotter trucks, and other mechanical equipment as authorized

Inspect tools and equipment before use

Maintain an organized work area and complete required housekeeping duties

Follow all company, customer, and railroad safety requirements

What You'll Need

Qualified candidates should have:

A valid state-issued driver's license

Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills

The ability and willingness to learn railcar inspection and repair procedures

The ability to qualify under AWS D15.1 welding certification guidelines

The ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, grinders, cutting torches, and welding equipment

Dependable attendance and punctuality

A safety-first approach to every assignment

The ability to follow written and verbal instructions

A positive, team-oriented attitude

The ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment

Benefits

Road & Rail Services offers eligible full-time employees:

Starting pay of $23.40 per hour

First-shift schedule

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company matching

Paid holidays and vacation

Annual steel-toe boot allowance

Company-provided personal protective equipment

Hands-on training and skill development

Advancement opportunities

A veteran-friendly workplace

A promote-from-within culture

Build Your Career with Road & Rail Services

Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services has become a leading provider of rail-related services throughout North America. Our employees provide plant and terminal operations, railcar repair, field maintenance, and other specialized services for railroads, manufacturers, shippers, and rail equipment owners.

If you have mechanical ability, take pride in quality work, and want to learn a specialized trade, apply today for our first-shift Railcar Mechanic position.

Road & Rail Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

 

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