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Rail Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zephyr Rail

Civil Inspector - Track/Rail

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$104K - $187K/yr

Document non-conforming conditions and verify the contractor's corrective actions. * Observe and ... At Zephyr Rail, we're an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion.

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Rail Contractor information

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$9

$32

$75

How much do rail contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail contractor in the United States is $32.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $40.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail contractor?

Rail contractors are professionals or companies specialized in the construction, maintenance, and repair of railway infrastructure. They are responsible for tasks such as laying tracks, building stations, installing signaling systems, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of rail operations. Rail contractors often work with public transit agencies, freight companies, and government organizations to deliver large-scale rail projects. Their expertise is essential for the development and upkeep of rail networks, both for passenger and freight transport.

What are some common challenges faced by rail contractors during large-scale infrastructure projects?

Rail contractors often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, engineers, and subcontractors, to ensure project milestones are met. Managing strict safety regulations and dealing with unexpected site conditions, such as weather delays or underground obstacles, are also common. Additionally, rail contractors must maintain clear communication across teams to minimize disruptions to existing rail services while ensuring the project stays within budget and on schedule.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Contractor, you need expertise in rail construction, project management, and safety regulations, typically backed by relevant certifications or a degree in civil engineering or construction management. Familiarity with industry-standard project management software, CAD systems, and compliance with safety standards like OSHA is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are critical for managing teams and ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget. These skills are vital for delivering safe, efficient, and compliant rail infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Rail Contractor vs Rail Technician?

AspectRail ContractorRail Technician
CredentialsVaries; often requires industry experience, safety certificationsTypically requires technical certifications, training, and sometimes an associate degree
Work EnvironmentOn-site at construction or maintenance projects, often outdoorsOn-site at rail yards, maintenance facilities, or construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageContract-based work for construction companies, railroads, or infrastructure firmsRail companies, maintenance providers, or specialized service firms

The main difference between a Rail Contractor and a Rail Technician is that Rail Contractors oversee and manage rail construction or maintenance projects, often working contract-based, while Rail Technicians focus on the hands-on repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting of rail systems. Both roles require safety certifications and industry knowledge, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Rail Contractor jobs?

Cities with the most Rail Contractor job openings:

What states have the most Rail Contractor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rail Contractor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Contractor jobs?

For Rail Contractor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Rail Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Contractor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,661 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Rail Terminal Crane Operator

Fairmont City, IL • On-site

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

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

We are hiring Crane Operators immediately to join our team in a recession-proof industry working at the Fairmont City Rail terminal! This is a full-time, permanent position with an essential business. You'll be working for the #1 intermodal rail contractor in the United States! Experience is required. This is a 24/7/365 operation 
Copy and Paste the below YouTube Video to watch what you'll be doing if you join our team! 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uriQMlaUUsI (You can fast forward to the 2:08 mark)

The starting Rate of pay is $18.00
The shift will be discussed during the interview process.
Accept to work some holidays and every weekend.
Benefits: (Medical benefits start after 60 days and the first of the month after that. Other benefits start after your 90-day probationary period).
  • Affordable Healthcare, Free Dental, and cheap Vision Benefits.
  • Free Life Insurance.
  • 6 paid holidays, paid personal days.
  • $100 boot reimbursement.
  • 401K.
  • Yearly Raises.
  • Vacation Pay (received on yearly anniversary).
  • Weekly Pay.

Essential Responsibilities:
  •  Responsible for the daily operation of the overhead or side loader crane, while loading and unloading containers and trailers to railcars. This will include locking and unlocking container chassis, trailer hitches, IBCs, and bolsters.
  • Perform daily pre-inspection to verify the conditions of the tires, oil levels/leaks, hydraulics, lights, flashers, radio, damage, and camera.
  • Ensure all safety equipment is operating properly, including the location and condition of the fire extinguisher.
  • Activate work assignments through the use of the onboard computer system.
  • Be aware of your surroundings when operating loading equipment to ensure all processes are followed to maintain a safe and injury-free work environment.
  • Ability to verify container, chassis, and trailer numbers accurately.
  • Ensure clear communication is met with the Ground Person and/or other personnel.
  • From time to time, provide hosting and ground person activities to complement work conditions and volumes.
  • All other duties as assigned.
Applicants for the Crane Operator position must meet the general requirements for employment with the company, according to the Company hiring process which includes:
  • Railroad Crane Experience is preferred.
  • Must possess a valid Driver's License
  • Must be able to pass a 7-year background check, a drug test, and a Physical Capabilities Test.
  • No GED or High School Diploma required

This job would be suitable for persons with prior railroad experience, prior railroad crane experience, and those with crane experience in other fields of work. 
You'll be employed directly by Pacific Rail Services and will not be an employee of the Railroad